This weekend, the “Hoy No Circula” program regulates vehicle circulation to control pollution rates in the Metropolitan Area of the Valley of Mexico, as enforced by the Secretariat of the Environment of Mexico City ([SEDEMA](https://www.sedema.cdmx.gob.mx)).
Understanding the Restrictions
Before you hit the road, it’s essential to check your vehicle’s license plate and verification sticker. The regulations apply not only in the 16 municipalities of Mexico City but also extend to several neighboring municipalities in the State of Mexico, including:
- Atizapan de Zaragoza
- Coacalco de Berriozábal
- Cuautitlan
- Cuautitlán Izcalli
- Chalco
- Chicoloapan
- Chimalhuacán
- Ecatepec de Morelos
- Huixquilucan
- Ixtapaluca
- La Paz
- Naucalpan de Juárez
- Nezahualcóyotl
- Nicolás Romero
- Tecámac
- Tlalnepantla de Baz
- Tultitlán
If your travel route crosses any of these areas, the “Hoy No Circula” regulations will apply to you as well.
What Cars Are Affected?
The primary goal of the “Hoy No Circula” initiative is to reduce vehicle emissions to mitigate pollution levels. This regulation operates on a specific scheme where the hologram, license plate last digit, and whether it is an even or odd week determine which vehicles must remain parked.
It’s important to note that the restrictions are not in effect for 24 hours but rather from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. This allows for free movement during the night and early morning unless an environmental contingency is declared.
Specifics for July 25, 2026
On July 25, 2026, classified as the fourth Saturday of the month, vehicles with hologram 1 and license plates ending in an even number will not be allowed to circulate during the designated hours. Vehicles with hologram 0 and 00 can travel freely. Notably, those with hologram 2 are prohibited from circulation on any Saturday throughout the year.
Exempt Vehicles
Some vehicles are exempt from these restrictions and can operate without penalties, including:
- Electric or hybrid vehicles
- Vehicles registered for persons with disabilities
- Urban public transportation vehicles
- School or passenger transport vehicles
- Vehicles assigned for public security and civil protection
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The penalty for failing to adhere to the “Hoy No Circula” regulations ranges between 20 and 30 times the Measurement and Update Unit (UMA), translating to a fine of approximately 1,924.40 to 2,886.60 Mexican pesos. Additionally, offenders risk having their vehicles towed or impounded, which can lead to significant delays in resolving administrative issues with authorities.
For residents and visitors, understanding these regulations is crucial to avoid fines and reduce environmental impact.
Photo | Daniel Jaber