Hidalgo → Reynosa

Hidalgo

24 hours, 7 days

Hard
Difficulty
HomeMexicoHidalgo
Know before you go

The McAllen-Hidalgo bridge crosses into Reynosa. Park at the aduana or the nearby lot to complete your paperwork. Reynosa is in Tamaulipas, which carries a Level 4 Do Not Travel advisory; this crossing is mostly used by locals. For Monterrey the Anzalduas bridge is a better choice, and some locals consider Progreso safer. Cross only in daylight.

At the border

What's where?

Marker positions are approximate — confirm exact locations on the day.

Immigration (INM)

The combined immigration/customs/vehicle-permit module south of the bridge where travelers going beyond the Free Zone or staying over 7 days get their FMM tourist permit stamped.

Customs (Aduana)

Mexican customs checkpoint at the Módulo CITEV complex where the semáforo (red/green light) inspection happens for vehicles heading south.

Banjercito (TIP)

Same administrative complex as INM/Aduana; get your Temporary Import Permit (TIP) and deposit processed here if you didn\'t complete it online.

Food

Casual Mexican restaurant on the Reynosa side.

Driving the crossing

Step by step, southbound

1

Approach the McAllen–Hidalgo–Reynosa International Bridge from the Hidalgo, TX side; follow signs for the southbound (to Mexico) span, separate from the northbound structure.

2

Pay the southbound toll and cross the Rio Grande into Reynosa, Tamaulipas.

3

If you're staying within the Border Free Zone under 7 days, you can generally continue straight through without stopping. If you need an FMM or vehicle permit, follow signs to Módulo CITEV Reynosa just south of the bridge.

4

At Módulo CITEV, park and go inside to process immigration (INM) and, if needed, your vehicle permit (Banjercito) and customs declaration (Aduana) in the same building.

5

Once cleared, continue south on the road toward Reynosa's city center or onward toward your destination.

Border intelligence

What travelers report

Best

Daylight hours

Avoid

After dark

We're gathering real wait times and crossing reports from travelers. Detailed border intelligence for this port is coming soon — it appears here automatically as verified reports come in.

Before you cross

Your US auto policy won’t cover you in Mexico

US, Canadian, and other foreign policies aren’t recognized in Mexico. Without coverage, even a minor accident can mean your vehicle is held and you’re detained until a valid policy is confirmed.

  • You must have cover to legally drive anywhere in Mexico
  • Liability or full coverage options available — valid instantly
  • Takes about 15 minutes to buy online, and is accepted at all border crossings and checkpoints

Read our insurance guide →

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