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Pelicans commandeer a boat in Guaymas

State of Sonora's Tourist Documentation Requirements for Vehicles and Individuals

To check the latest entry documentation requirements for the country of Mexico, click here.

Individuals

The type of tourist visitor document needed to visit Sonora depends on where you plan to go, and how long you plan to stay there.

If you will not be traveling past the "free zone" (south of Guaymas), and plan to stay in the country fewer than 72
hours, no tourist permit is needed.

If you will be staying for more than three days, you must stop at the 21km checkpoint to complete a Foreign Citizens Tourist Visa (FMT).  

The FMT form is simple and straightforward, and after completing it you must present it to a customs official along
with a photo ID (a passport or driver's license) and proof of citizenship (although a passport is preferred, an original or certified birth certificate will suffice).  The official will then review your application before approving (or rejecting) it and stamping the FMT form.  

After receiving your stamped copy of the form (which is valid for six months), you will need to stop at a Mexican bank at some point during your travels to pay for the card (about $25).

Vehicles

If you are bringing your personal vehicle into Sonora from the United States and do not plan to travel south of Guaymas, you will not need a vehicle permit.  

However, you must be the registered owner of the vehicle, and of any vehicles in tow.  Be prepared to present the title to the vehicle and insurance forms at the border and at the 21km checkpoint.  

If the vehicle's owner is a relative (parent, spouse, or sibling) and you have the same last name, in addition to the title, bring a permission letter that is signed by the owner and notarized.

If you are driving a rental vehicle, you must present the rental contract for the vehicle.

If traveling out of the Free Trade Zone (south of Guaymas) you will need to obtain a Banjercito federal tourist vehicle permit.

Other regulations regarding the temporary importation of vehicles into Sonora:

• The vehicle must have current license plates
• Vehicles and towed items that weigh more than 30 tons will require a permit
• In addition to the main vehicle, you are allowed to bring up to three motorcycles or small boating craft.  If there are more than three people traveling together, the number of motorcycles/watercraft may be equal to the number of travelers.
• Golf carts and similar small vehicles are not allowed into Sonora, since they are un-registered vehicles.

For more information, see the State of Sonora's tourism website.