Traveling In The Us With A Mexican Id: What You Need

If you are a Mexican citizen and want to travel inside the US, you must show valid identification at the airport in order to travel. A Mexican consular ID is not considered a valid form of ID for US domestic flights. However, you can travel domestically on a foreign passport.

Domestic flights and acceptable IDs

As per the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), adult passengers (18 and older) must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint to travel within the US. Here is a list of acceptable IDs:

• Driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent). From May 7, 2025, ensure that your ID is REAL ID-compliant.
• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
• Permanent resident card
• Border crossing card
• State-issued Enhanced Driver's License
• Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID
• Foreign government-issued passport
• Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
• Transportation worker identification credential
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

Children under 18 are not required to provide identification when travelling within the US. However, airlines may have specific requirements, so it is best to contact them beforehand.

Travelling by bus or train

If you are travelling by bus or train within the US, you may not need to show ID when boarding. However, it is always best to carry a valid form of identification with you when travelling.

Bus Travel

Greyhound, a popular bus company in the US, requires passengers to show ID when boarding. This is because Greyhound was purchased by the German company FlixMobility in 2021, and FlixMobility requires passengers to show ID when boarding buses. However, other bus companies may not have this requirement.

Train Travel

Amtrak, a US train company, claims that passengers over 18 must show valid photo identification to buy tickets or board trains. However, in practice, you can buy a ticket without showing ID and staff do not always ask for ID.

Accepted forms of ID vary depending on the state and the company you are travelling with. Generally, a valid passport, Enhanced Driver's License, or WHTI-Compliant ID are accepted. Trusted Traveller cards, such as NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST cards, are also often accepted.

If you do not have valid ID, you may still be able to travel by bus or train within the US. However, it is important to be aware of your rights and the potential consequences of travelling without ID.

Border Crossing

If you are crossing the US-Mexico border, you will need to show valid identification and proof of citizenship. This applies to both entering and exiting Mexico.

Entering Mexico

When entering Mexico by bus, all passengers must get off the bus and collect their belongings, including any baggage stored under the bus. You will be asked by immigration officials about the reason for your trip, and they may inspect your baggage. Children travelling into Mexico will need a passport or birth certificate to show proof of citizenship. Non-Mexican citizens must also provide their address in Mexico and a ticket for their return trip.

Exiting Mexico

When exiting Mexico by bus, the same procedures will apply. You will need to provide a valid passport, visa (if required), and address of where you will be staying. You will also need to fill out an I94 form, which you will get from the immigration officer.

Additional Considerations

When travelling by bus or train within the US or crossing the US-Mexico border, it is important to keep the following in mind:

• Always carry your travel documents with you, do not pack them in your luggage.
• Make sure your identification and travel documents are valid and have not expired.
• Be aware of any specific travel warnings, import restrictions, or other rules that apply to your trip.

Driving

If you are a Mexican citizen driving in the US, you will need to carry a valid passport or travel document. A US driver's license is not a travel document.

If you are a US citizen driving in Mexico, you will need to bring the following:

• A valid US passport or US passport card
• A separate Mexican auto insurance policy
• A state-issued driver's license
• Your vehicle's proof of registration
• A temporary vehicle importation permit (unless you are in the "hassle-free zone", which includes the Sonora free zone, the western half of Sonora, and the entirety of the Baja Peninsula)
• A letter of permission from your vehicle lender (if your car is financed)
• A Mexico entry permit (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM)

If you are driving a Mexican-plated car, it is unlikely that you will be asked about the car. However, it is still important to have documentation ready in case you are asked.

Border Patrol checkpoints

Border Patrol operates 71 traffic checkpoints, including 33 permanent traffic checkpoints, near the Mexico–United States border. These checkpoints are located between 25 and 75 miles (40 and 121 km) of the Mexico–United States border along major U.S. highways. Their purpose is to deter illegal immigration, smuggling activities, and terrorism.

No documentation is required at Border Patrol checkpoints for US citizens. However, lawful permanent residents (LPRs) must carry their registration cards ("green cards") at all times. People in a non-immigrant status (e.g. tourists) should carry proper documentation.

If you are travelling by land, you should carry all travel documents with you and not packed away. Children under the age of 16 arriving by land or sea from Canada or Mexico may present an original or copy of their birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Naturalization Certificate.

If you are flying, adult passengers aged 18 and over must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint. This can include a foreign government-issued passport, a permanent resident card, or a border crossing card.

Travelling to US territories

If you're a US citizen, you can visit US territories without needing a passport. However, you will need a valid ID for air travel.

US territories that do not require a passport for US citizens include:

• Puerto Rico
• US Virgin Islands
• American Samoa
• Guam
• Northern Mariana Islands

Each of these territories offers a unique experience with stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and diverse cultures.

Puerto Rico, for example, is a Caribbean island with a rich Spanish colonial history and modern cities like San Juan. The US Virgin Islands, on the other hand, are a group of tropical islands offering pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and world-class scuba diving. American Samoa provides a peaceful escape with untouched natural beauty and traditional Polynesian culture. Guam, located in the Western Pacific, boasts pristine beaches and a fascinating blend of Chamorro, Spanish, and American influences. Lastly, the Northern Mariana Islands, located in the Pacific Ocean, offer outdoor adventures and a unique cultural experience with ancient Chamorro villages and diverse populations.

While a passport is not required for these territories, it is always a good idea to carry a valid ID, especially when travelling by air. Additionally, it is important to check the latest travel requirements, including any COVID-19 restrictions, before planning a trip to any of these destinations.

Frequently asked questions