Nogales is Arizona’s main gateway into the Mexican state of Sonora. Split between Nogales, Arizona and Nogales, Sonora, it is the crossing most Arizonans use to reach Hermosillo, the San Carlos coast, and mainland Mexico beyond.
DeConcini vs Mariposa
The DeConcini port sits right downtown and is the default pedestrian and passenger crossing, open 24 hours. The Mariposa port, on the west side, handles most truck and commercial traffic and connects smoothly to Highway 15 – for drivers heading south by car it is frequently the faster, less congested choice.
Where the road leads
South of Nogales, Highway 15 is the main artery down the Sonoran coast – to Hermosillo, Guaymas, and the beaches of San Carlos. It is a well-traveled toll highway. As with all of Mexico, drive it in daylight, keep cash for tolls, and fuel up where you can.
Permits for mainland Mexico
Sonora has a special arrangement: the “Only Sonora” program lets you drive much of the state without a full temporary vehicle import permit. But if you travel into mainland Mexico beyond the Sonora corridor, you must obtain a temporary vehicle import permit (TIP) in addition to your FMM tourist permit. This is different from the hassle-free Rocky Point trip, where no permit is required.
Insurance comes first
Whatever your destination in Sonora, your US auto policy will not cover you across the line. Mexican auto insurance from an authorized insurer is required, recognized by Mexican authorities, and inexpensive for a short trip. Buy online before you go, and review what else to bring for a smooth crossing.
Get Mexican auto insurance in minutes – a fast online quote means you are covered before you reach the border.
Related guides
- Driving to Rocky Point from Arizona
- What to bring to drive into Mexico
- Do you need Mexican car insurance?
Frequently asked questions
What are the two Nogales border crossings?
DeConcini, the downtown port open 24 hours and busiest with pedestrians and passenger cars, and Mariposa on the west side, which handles more commercial traffic but is often faster for drivers heading to Highway 15.
Do I need a vehicle permit to drive through Nogales into Mexico?
For mainland Mexico beyond the Sonora corridor, yes – you need a temporary vehicle import permit (TIP) plus an FMM. The ‘Only Sonora’ program covers much of Sonora without a full permit; check which applies to your route.
Where does Highway 15 from Nogales go?
South through Sonora to Hermosillo, Guaymas, and the San Carlos coast. It is the main route into mainland western Mexico and is a toll highway.
Do I need Mexican insurance to cross at Nogales?
Yes. Your US auto policy does not cover you in Mexico. You need a Mexican auto insurance policy, which you can purchase online in minutes before crossing.