Mexican vs. US driver's licenses... what do folks here do?

Hi, All --- I searched through the archives but didn't find quite the info that I was looking for, so I'll post a new question:

My brother-in-law is retired (permanente) in San Miguel de Allende. He has a Washington state driver's license that will expire later this year. He's trying to decide whether to try to renew it even though he has no residence in Washington, or to get a Mexican license even though he doesn't own a car. Obviously, it's useful to have some kind of license so he can rent a car when he visits family up north. What do y'all recommend? What's your experience? TIA
-- Old Lars

I would suggest that he get a Guanajuato drivers license,I've used my Jalisco license when renting cars in the US without any problems.

I would recommend the GTO license too. It can double as ID for various other things.

Thanks so much, Folks. Do you suppose he'll have to pass a written test in Spanish?

Yes and a driving test. In some cases a translator will be provided. I assume in SMA they have an "English friendly" licensing office.