Car hire in Cancún Airport – Good to know about driving in there
Driving in Cancún and the Yucatán Peninsula is doable and often enjoyable, especially outside the city. Roads are generally in good condition and well-signposted, especially on major highways like Carretera Federal 307, which runs south from Cancún to Tulum and beyond.
In Mexico, drivers use the right-hand side of the road, and the steering wheel is on the left side of the vehicle — same as in the U.S., Canada, and much of Europe.
Seat belts are mandatory, and mobile phone use while driving is illegal unless you’re using a hands-free system. Police presence is visible on highways and city roads, with occasional military checkpoints, especially near coastal tourist zones.
Roads are generally paved, but you’ll find:
Topes (speed bumps) everywhere — often unmarked
Occasional potholes or road damage, especially off main roads
Informal intersections and roundabouts with loose right-of-way enforcement
Drive cautiously in small towns, and expect pedestrians, cyclists, and motorbikes to share the road.
Unless otherwise posted, the general speed limits in the area are:
100–110 km/h (62–68 mph) on highways
60–80 km/h (37–50 mph) on major urban roads
30–40 km/h (19–25 mph) in towns and residential zones
Keep cash in pesos for tolls, fuel, and parking (some places don’t accept cards). At gas stations, attendants pump fuel for you (tip ~5–10 pesos). Most major highways, like the 307 to Tulum, are free, but toll highways (marked “Cuota”) may appear on longer trips to inland destinations like Mérida. These toll roads are smoother, faster, and safer — worth the small fee.
If you need help during your stay, please contact us with any questions! In case of an emergency, dial 911 for all services.