TalkBaja.com » Baja Mexico Forums » General Discussion

I've read in several posts about auto importation fees. I'm planning to spend a year in BCS and to bring my US-registered car. Is there some special protocol I need to follow? What about insuring the car in Mexico? I presume that my US insurance won't apply. Do I go through my US company for Mexican insurance, or are there particular companies in Mexico that are the most reputable? And do I need to maintain US car insurance even though I'm not living here? (I imagine it depends on the state, in which case I'll need to check.) What's this I hear about South Dakota? I'm looking to get an SUV for the rough Baja roads and would prefer to use an auto loan, but I suspect they won't want to fund a car that will be "living" in Mexico. Lots of questions! Thanks in advance for your answers.

Here's your contact for So. Dakota registration.
No insurance....no smog....no sweat.

Clay County, South Dakota

Thanks for the link, Dennis, but I can't find any info on how to register a car. Where do you go online to do it?

Markg

A smart individual will get full coverage Mexican Liability Insurance BEFORE they cross into Mexico.

"Most" short term Mexican insurance issuers will require you to also maintain US insurance, and if you finance a vehicle the leinholder will most always demand insurance coverage. If the vehicle is financed by a US concern, I'm not sure if they will accept Mexican vehicle insurance....however, your mileage may vary.

Originally Posted by markg

Thanks for the link, Dennis, but I can't find any info on how to register a car. Where do you go online to do it?

OK...here ya go:
you first call the treasurer's office and tell them about your vehicle..type and year....to establish your fee. Different cars have different fees.

You will then send in a check for that amount along with the title. In a week or two you'll recieve a new SD title along with your new SD plates.

Clay County, South Dakota


There's an online app somewhere on these websites.....I'll see if I can find it.


Click on TREASURER......left top of website and scroll to the bottom