Are there US checkpoints leaving TX towards Nuevo Laredo
 

I want to go visit a friend in Monterrey Mexico. I'm concerned on 59S towards Mexico if there are any US checkpoints leaving United States. What should I expect on my way into Mexico.

Why are you asking about checkpoints in the US heading south to the border (Nuevo Laredo, I assume)? US Customs and Border Protection U S Border Patrol do run documents checkpoints (road chokepoints), both permanent and temporary, of course. The checkpoints you would most likely encounter are within Mexico, both customs and immigration checkpoints and drugs checkpoints operated by the military.

In any case, you should plan on NOT driving at night, having your passport and automobile papers and purchasing Mexican insurance - US insurance is not valid in Mexico, and Mexican insurance acts as your bail guarantor if you should become involved in an accident (no insurance and you may see the inside of a Mexican jail). Monterrey has become a bit of a personal security and safety problem as of late.

When you refer to 59S, can I assume you're talking about driving from Houston. if so, IH10/IH35 is only 35 miles more and an easier drive.

There will be at least one, maybe a couple of checkpoints on both highways N and E of Laredo, almost always for N & E bound traffic only. Nothing departing the US, simply Mexican immigration just across the river. 2 choices, the old downtown route or the truck bypass.

It's a trip which in the old days I made many times, but in all honesty, in today's world and with the price of gas, I'd fly from IAH.

I've NEVER encountered a checkpoint SOUTHBOUND, but did on the northbound US59 several times.

EmailKid

Same here. I had a deer lease between Uvalde and Brackettville and got stopped a couple of times...they could tell I was a redneck - beat up pickup truck, bloody ice chests, rifle in a gun rack - so they just gave me a disinterested glance. I want to say it was 90N though.

Agree with others...just fly, unless you love the S Texas countryside.

typically not checkpoints while leaving US, its coming back. As others mentioned, a bit risky and not a trip I would take or recommend.

The checkpoints are usually northbound but anything is possible.

It is not a wise drive to make if you have a car that is popular in Mexico or one that can be quickly taken apart for parts...or both.