Drive down there and find out. Its called experiential learning. :-)
Why would you even want to drive into that sh*thole?
Since you have received numerous responses to your question(s) from “the smartest people in the world”, have you been persuaded one way or another as to how you will ultimately proceed?
I go to Canada regularly and all that is required is a passport to come and go. They don’t have any interest in your DL.
HOWEVER if I was going to Mexico and driving my car...Hmmmmmmmmm
Don’t think I would drive any car to Mexico whether I had a license or a passport or anything at all to show I was USA legal. Those Federales or Federale imposters don’t want anything from you except all your money or whatever else you might value.
You wrote in Ron Paul. Didn’t you?
You can go to Mexico if you want with your car without a license IF you want to: (1) spend a lot of time in a Mexican jail or (2) never be seen alive again. There are plenty of Mexicans who will kill a Gringo and take your car and anything you have with you. Think about it, SERIOUSLY and don’t do it.
Mexico, as a matter of public policy, assumes that its domestic production of criminals is sufficient to meets its needs, and it actively works to discourage foreigners from entering Mexico and committing crimes. I would suggest that you not give Mexican officialdom an opportunity to make an example of you.
You are helping pay for this stuff; may as well use it.
Driving and Vehicle Regulations: U.S. driver's licenses are valid in Mexico. Mexican law requires that only owners drive their vehicles, or that the owner be inside the vehicle. If not, the vehicle may be seized by Mexican customs and will not be returned under any circumstances. The Government of Mexico strictly regulates the entry of vehicles into Mexico. Traffic laws in Mexico are sporadically enforced and therefore often ignored by drivers, creating dangerous conditions for drivers and pedestrians. Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal in all parts of Mexico. Using a mobile device (such as a cell phone) is also prohibited while driving in many parts of Mexico, including Mexico City, and violators may be fined.
Insurance: Mexican insurance is required for all vehicles, including rental vehicles. Mexican auto insurance is sold in most cities and towns on both sides of the border. U.S. automobile liability insurance is not valid in Mexico, nor is most collision and comprehensive coverage issued by U.S. companies. Motor vehicle insurance is considered invalid in Mexico if the driver is found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.