Quintana Roo Expands ‘Tourist Card’ Program to Enhance Visitor Driving Experience
In a collaborative effort to improve the driving experience for tourists, the Quintana Roo Car Rental Association (AAA), led by President Alma Reynoso Zambrano, has partnered with the State Tourism Secretariat to reintroduce and expand the ‘Tourist Card’ program across all municipalities by 2025. This initiative aims to support visitors renting cars during their vacations, particularly during peak travel periods such as Easter week.
Understanding the Tourist Card in Quintana Roo
The Tourist Card is a digital document designed to protect tourists from fines for up to two non-serious traffic violations. Instead of incurring fines, tourists committing minor offenses receive warnings from authorities and are not required to surrender their documents. However, serious violations are not excused under this program, including:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Parking in spaces reserved for people with disabilities
- Involvement in a car accident resulting in injury or significant property damage
To prevent corruption, traffic officers are prohibited from confiscating tourists’ personal documents. In the event of a violation, only the rental vehicle’s license plate number is recorded and the corresponding rental company will also be notified of the situation to ensure they are kept informed.
Program Expansion and Implementation
Initially introduced in 2016, the Tourist Card program was temporarily suspended but has been reinstated due to its effectiveness in enhancing tourist experiences and reducing incidents of corruption. In December 2023, authorities distributed 5,000 digital cards to established car rental companies in Cancún, with plans to issue an additional 14,000 cards during the spring vacation period.
The program’s success in Cancún has prompted plans to extend the Tourist Card to all 11 municipalities in Quintana Roo by 2025. This expansion reflects the state’s commitment to safeguarding tourists and maintaining a positive image of its destinations.
Tourist and Community Feedback
The reintroduction of the Tourist Card has been met with positive feedback from both tourists and local businesses. Visitors appreciate the leniency for minor infractions, which alleviates concerns about driving in unfamiliar areas. Local car rental agencies have also noted a decrease in complaints related to traffic fines, contributing to a more enjoyable experience for tourists.
The expansion of the Tourist Card program underscores Quintana Roo’s dedication to enhancing the tourist experience by addressing common challenges faced by visitors who rent vehicles. By providing leniency for minor traffic infractions and implementing measures to prevent corruption, the state aims to ensure that tourists feel protected and valued during their stay. As the program rolls out across all municipalities, it is expected to further solidify Quintana Roo’s reputation as a tourist-friendly destination committed to the safety and satisfaction of its visitors.
Discover more from Riviera Maya News & Events
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.