Minimum age for a car driving licence in Baja California (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: A car licence requires an age of at least 18, a medical certificate, a theory exam and a driving test, and is valid for three years. Persons aged 16 or 17 can obtain a one-year licence in the minor modality with written parental consent; it is valid only from 06:00 to 22:30. Licences from elsewhere in Mexico and abroad are valid for non-residents while in force.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Minimum age for a car licenceCar (category B) driving licence | 18 years [1] |
| Driving before the minimum ageCar (category B) driving licence | A licence in the 'menor de edad' modality is available at 16 or 17, on the written consent of the parents or guardians, who take joint liability for infractions and damages. It is valid for one year and only from 06:00 to 22:30. [1] |
| Learner's permit from ageCar (category B) driving licence | 16 years [1] |
| Night-time limit for new driversCar (category B) driving licence | A licence in the minor modality (ages 16 and 17) is valid only from 06:00 to 22:30. It may not be used to drive in demonstrations, processions, caravans or parades. [1] |
| Visitors on a foreign licence: ageCar (category B) driving licence | Licences issued by any competent authority in Mexico, and foreigners' licences issued in their place of origin, are valid in the state if in force and the holder is not a resident. Visitors can also obtain a provisional car licence valid for up to nine months. [1] |
| Tests for a first car licenceCar (category B) driving licence | Applicants must present a medical certificate of fitness to drive, pass a practical driving test for the licence type and pass a theory exam on traffic and urban mobility. The minors' licence has the same requirements apart from age. [1] |
| How long the licence is validCar (category B) driving licence | Licences are valid for three years from issue; the period may be shortened or extended by up to six months to match the holder's date of birth. The minors' licence (ages 16 and 17) is valid for one year. [1] |
Notes
- The text read is the consolidated law with the last reform of 30 November 2018. Later reforms were not checked.
Sources
- H. Congreso del Estado de Baja California: Ley que Regula los Servicios de Control Vehicular en el Estado de Baja California (última reforma P.O. 30-Nov-2018) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
More rules in Baja California
- Car speed limitsBuilt-up areas: 65 / 40 km/h (Mexicali) · Outside built-up areas (single carriageway): 80 km/h (municipal highways)
- Drinking age and alcohol salesMinimum age to buy beer and wine: 18 · Minimum age to buy spirits: 18
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.