CBX Hours, Fees, and Ticket Types: Everything You Need to Know Before Crossing
The Cross Border Xpress (CBX) is a secure pedestrian sky bridge that links San Diego directly to Tijuana International Airport (TIJ), officially named General Abelardo L. Rodríguez International Airport. Instead of long lines at the San Ysidro Port of Entry or Otay Mesa, passengers can walk across in minutes. Families, business travelers, and airline passengers flying Volaris, Interjet, or VivaAerobus use CBX to skip traditional Tijuana border crossings. In this blog, you’ll learn about CBX hours, ticket types, parking, immigration checks, and travel tips. With Rides On Time, your private car transfer makes the process faster than relying on a taxi, Uber, or bus.What is Cross Border Xpress (CBX) and How to Use It for Tijuana Airport Flights
- A 390-foot enclosed pedestrian bridge connecting San Diego with the TIJ terminal building.
- For airline passengers with valid boarding passes checked in at TIJ.
- Open 24/7, all year.
CBX Hours of Operation: Is Cross Border Xpress Open 24/7?
- CBX operates 24 hours a day.
- Immigration officers and U.S. Customs and Border Protection staff are always on duty.
- Traffic from I-5 South or CA-905 can cause delays near Otay Mesa, especially during peak travel weekends and Disneyland vacation rush.
CBX Tickets 2025: Prices, Fees, and Family Pass Options
| Ticket Type | One-Way | Round Trip | Notes |
| Standard Ticket | $20–$25 | $35–$40 | Seasonal pricing applies |
| Family Pass | Varies | Varies | For 4+ passengers |
| Group Ticket | Discounted | Discounted | Online purchase only |
| Assisted Pass | Add-on | Add-on | For elderly, disabled, or strollers |
What Documents Do You Need for CBX Border Crossing?
- Valid Passport (U.S. or Mexican).
- Boarding Pass for a same-day TIJ flight.
- CBX Ticket (mobile QR or printed).
- FMM Form if staying in Mexico for more than 7 days.
Additional CBX Costs: FMM Fee, Parking, and Travel Services
- FMM Fee: About $30–$35 USD for extended stays.
- Parking Fees: $20–$25/day, depending on the lot.
- Transportation: A taxi, Uber, shuttle bus, or private car. With Rides On Time, you avoid parking charges.
CBX Parking Guide: Daily Rates, Locations, and Best Options
| Lot | Daily Rate | Distance to Bridge | Best For |
| Premium Lot | $25 | Closest to terminal | Business or short trips |
| Standard Lot | $20 | Short walk | Families |
| Off-Site Partner Lots | $15–$18 | Shuttle ride | Budget trips |
How to Cross the CBX Sky Bridge Step by Step (San Diego to TIJ)
Step 1 – Arrive at CBX
Arrive 2–3 hours before your flight. Congestion near Otay Mesa and the Tijuana border roads can add delays.Step 2 – Check Documents
Show passport, boarding pass, CBX ticket. If staying longer, fill out the Mexican FMM.Step 3 – Cross the Sky Bridge
Scan your CBX QR code and walk across the bridge into TIJ. Average crossing: 15–30 minutes.Step 4 – Immigration and Security
- Mexican immigration confirms your entry.
- Passengers then proceed to airline check-in counters, drop luggage, and head through TIJ security screening.
San Diego to CBX Transportation: Private Car Service vs Taxi, Uber, Bus
Instead of navigating taxi lines, unreliable Uber pickups, or waiting for a bus, travelers book Rides On Time for direct service:- Pickups across San Diego County, including Del Mar, Chula Vista, Carlsbad, and Temecula.
- 24/7 availability with professional chauffeurs.
- Luxury fleet: SUVs, Sprinters, and sedans.
Local Tips for CBX Travelers: San Diego to Tijuana Border Guide
- Morning stop at Balboa Park or the San Diego Zoo? Leave early—traffic near University City builds fast.
- Hotels near Anaheim or Garden Grove face Disney fireworks traffic at night. Plan CBX transfers wisely.
- South Coast Plaza near Costa Mesa offers food and restrooms before flights.
- If plans change to LAX or Long Beach, rules for car seats and ID checks are the same across the United States.
Official CBX Resources and Tijuana Airport Travel Links
Cross Border Xpress (CBX) Official Resources
Tijuana International Airport (TIJ)
Border and Immigration Authorities
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection – San Ysidro Port of Entry
- Instituto Nacional de Migración (Mexico Immigration)
CBX at a Glance: Fast Facts for San Diego to Tijuana Airport Passengers
CBX runs 24/7. Bring a passport, boarding pass, and CBX ticket. Buy tickets online to save. Crossing takes 15–30 minutes. Parking starts at $20/day, but Rides On Time offers private, stress-free rides across San Diego County.
Final Thoughts: Making Your CBX Border Crossing Smooth with Rides On Time
The Cross Border Xpress gives passengers fast access to Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) without the headaches of San Ysidro or Otay Mesa. With the right documents, tickets, and timing, your trip is simple. Choosing Rides On Time ensures you avoid long parking lines, unreliable taxis or Ubers, and missed flights. For travelers between San Diego, Mexico, and the U.S., CBX remains the fastest way to connect across the border.CBX FAQs: Answers About Hours, Tickets, and Border Crossing Rules
What do I need to cross through CBX?
Passport, boarding pass, CBX ticket. For longer stays, add the FMM form.
How early should I get to CBX before my flight?
2–3 hours before flight time. Holidays may need more.
How much does it cost to use the CBX?
$20–$40 one way. Prices vary by season.
Is it cheaper to buy CBX online?
Yes. Online tickets are usually 10–20% less than kiosks.
What do they check for when you cross the border?
Immigration checks your passport, CBX ticket, luggage, and boarding pass.
Do I need to print my CBX ticket?
No. Mobile QR codes work, but printing is a good backup.
How much is the FMM fee?
About $30–$35 USD for stays over 7 days.
How long does it take to cross via CBX?
15–30 minutes, or up to 60 during peak seasons.
