Reynosa-Hidalgo International Bridge – Mexico USA

Border Crossing From Mexico to USA by Bridge

Map Direction

Opening Hours

Standard Hours: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week Seasonal Adjustments: None Holiday Closures: None - operates year-round

Wait Time & Traffic

Average Wait:

Vehicles (Standard): 45-120 minutes
Vehicles (SENTRI): 15-30 minutes
Pedestrians: 15-45 minutes

Peak Times:

Weekday mornings (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM)
Weekday evenings (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Weekend afternoons
Holiday periods and special events
Sunday evenings are especially busy with weekend travelers returning

Express Options:

SENTRI (Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection)
Global Entry
Ready Lane for RFID-enabled documentation
EZ Cross pre-paid system ($4.00 card with minimum $52.50 initial deposit)

Border Facilities

Immigration Processing: Available on both sides of the border US CBP facilities fully staffed 24/7 Mexican immigration services available 24/7 Customs Processing: Available on both sides of the border Secondary inspection facilities available Health Screening: Limited; specific screenings implemented only during health emergencies Services: Restrooms available on both sides Limited food vendors near the crossing Currency exchange available near Mexican side Duty-free shops near Mexican entrance Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible pedestrian paths Limited assistance for persons with disabilities

Official Resources

USA Border Authority:

US Customs and Border Protection: www.cbp.gov
Port Information: https://www.cbp.gov/contact/ports/hidalgo
Contact: (956) 843-4615

Mexico Border Authority:

Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM): www.gob.mx/inm
Aduana México (Mexican Customs): www.gob.mx/sat
Contact: +52 899 921 0506

Travel Advisories:

US State Department: travel.state.gov
Mexico Tourism Board: www.visitmexico.com

Overview

The Reynosa-Hidalgo International Bridge serves as a vital gateway connecting Hidalgo, Texas with Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico. Established in 1905, this historic border crossing has been facilitating cross-border movement for over a century. The bridge features nine southbound lanes, including a dedicated EZ Cross Lane for registered travelers, and a separate pedestrian walkway—making it the only International Port of Entry in the area with pedestrian crossing capabilities. Operating continuously 24/7, this crossing plays a crucial role in supporting the deeply integrated communities and economies on both sides of the border. While commercial trucks are directed to the nearby Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge, the Hidalgo crossing specializes in personal vehicle and pedestrian traffic. For frequent crossers, an EZ Cross system utilizing pre-paid cards streamlines the process. The bridge has historically processed millions of crossings annually, with recent data showing over 3.3 million cars and 2 million pedestrians utilizing this crossing. As part of a comprehensive regional crossing network in Hidalgo County, this bridge contributes significantly to the area's $33 billion in annual cross-border trade.

Document Requirements

Valid passport from country of citizenship
Valid US visa
Valid Mexican visa (if required for nationality)
FMM tourist card when entering Mexico
I-94 form when entering the US
For vehicles: International Driver’s Permit, vehicle registration/rental agreement, and cross-border insurance coverage

Valid US passport or passport card
Valid SENTRI, Global Entry, or other trusted traveler program card (if enrolled)
For vehicles: valid driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance

Valid Mexican passport
Valid US visa or Border Crossing Card (if not visa exempt)
FMM tourist card for stays beyond the border zone or longer than 72 hours
For vehicles: Mexican driver’s license, vehicle registration, and Mexican auto insurance with US coverage

Crossing Procedure

From Mexico Side

Exit Mexico: Approach Mexican exit checkpoint Pay bridge toll fee Proceed across bridge to US border control Enter USA: Join appropriate lane (standard, Ready Lane, or SENTRI/Global Entry) Present all required documentation to US CBP officer Answer all questions honestly and completely Submit to inspection of vehicle and belongings if requested Proceed through checkpoint after clearance

From USA Side

Exit USA: Approach the bridge toll booth and pay the crossing fee ($4.00 for standard vehicles) For EZ Cross users, use the dedicated lane and present pre-paid card Proceed across the bridge to Mexican customs and immigration No formal exit checks are typically performed by US authorities when leaving Enter Mexico: Proceed to Mexican immigration checkpoint Present required documentation (passport, visa if required) Complete FMM tourist card for stays beyond border zone or longer than 72 hours Proceed to customs inspection area if selected for secondary screening For vehicles, obtain temporary vehicle import permit if traveling beyond border zone

Special Considerations

Vehicle Imports/Exports: Temporary vehicle permits required for driving beyond border zone in Mexico Mexican auto insurance required for US vehicles entering Mexico Commercial vehicles directed to Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge Goods Allowances: US entry: $800 personal exemption for US citizens Limited quantities of alcohol and tobacco products Agricultural products subject to inspection and restrictions Prohibited Items: Weapons and ammunition Illegal drugs and narcotics Most fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and plants Cultural artifacts and protected wildlife products Counterfeit merchandise Currency Restrictions: Amounts over $10,000 USD must be declared when entering either country Mexican currency can be brought in/out without declaration Known Issues: Inconsistent wait time information through border wait time apps Periodic lane closures may increase congestion Limited communication regarding delays

Accommodations

Hotels and Restaurants in near Border USA:

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham McAllen La Plaza Mall (15 minutes)
Comfort Inn Hidalgo (5 minutes)
IHOP, Denny’s, and various local restaurants in Hidalgo and McAllen

Hotels and Restaurants in Near border Mexico:

City Express Reynosa (10 minutes)
Holiday Inn Reynosa (15 minutes)
Various local restaurants including authentic Mexican cuisine

Better Options Nearby:

McAllen, Texas (10 km) offers superior accommodation options including Hilton Garden Inn, DoubleTree, and numerous dining options
Reynosa Centro (8 km) provides more established hotels and restaurant variety

Public Review Sentiments

Based on total reviews found online, the Reynosa-Hidalgo International Bridge presents a mixed but generally positive experience for travelers. Most users appreciate the 24/7 availability and note that crossing can be relatively quick during off-peak hours, with some reporting completion times of under 45 minutes even with baggage processing. Regular commuters value the SENTRI lane option which significantly reduces wait times for pre-approved travelers. The crossing is generally described as well-organized and safe, with some mentioning the availability of shade from the sun while waiting. However, critical feedback centers primarily around congestion issues during peak times, with multiple reviewers mentioning wait times of 1.5 to 2 hours being common. Several travelers express frustration about insufficient open lanes despite high traffic volumes, noting that the bridge often operates below capacity even during busy periods. Some have commented on inconsistent information about wait times through apps, and a few mention experiences with less friendly border personnel. Travelers also note the importance of having proper documentation ready and recommend considering alternative crossings like Anzalduas during particularly busy periods.

Traveler Experiences

"We passed by the bridge this Jan, 2025 with turning in the permit and getting in line to cross to the USA was a total of 2 hr wait. I was happy with that considering what I've experienced in the past." - Suley Rivera, January 2025

"Easy crossing, almost no wait. We crossed with tons of baggage and applying for new FMMs, the entire process took under 45 minutes." - Ilya Belous, November 2024

"It is generally a long waiting process; They charge $1.60 for cars, which translates to a payment of 32 pesos; The line waits long and progress is very slow. You have access to bathrooms on the right side. It is recommended to bring change and cash to speed up the process when it comes to crossing the bridge." - Anonymous traveler, October 2024

DISCLAIMER: This guide provides general information based on data available at time of publication. Border regulations, requirements, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current information with official government sources before travel. BorderRoute.com is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or outdated information. Travel decisions and border compliance remain the sole responsibility of the traveler.