Keep the FMM handy because you may have to prove your legal entry at any time, especially at checkpoints. Unless you have an entry document from a Mexican Consulate for an Visa Permanente or Visa Temporal when you arrive, you will have to pay for an FMM, a visitor’s visa, each of you. What do I need to cross the Mexican border by Car? Let’s get started on everything you need to start your drive. It is about a 24 – 48 hour drive from most border crossing points to Lake Chapala, this all depends if you drive straight through or stop at hotels for a rest. So what exactly does one need to cross the Mexican border by car? This article is aimed at guiding Canadians and Americans on their drive down to Lake Chapala and Ajijic Mexico. Mexico is mountainous and towns may be few and far between. Many border points are open 24/7 but you don’t want to be on the road during the night. Try to arrive early enough for the legalities because they take time and there are lots of people crossing back and forth daily. Actually, if you arrive with only a suitcase or two and a few clothes on hangers, perhaps a laptop computer and a pet, it’s pretty easy crossing into Mexico.
