Mexico City Hoy No Circula: Which Days Can You Drive by Plate Number?

In Mexico City, you cannot drive on certain weekdays based on your license plate's last digit: Mondays (5,6), Tuesdays (7,8), Wednesdays (3,4), Thursdays (1,2), Fridays (9,0) from 5AM-10PM. This is the Hoy No Circula program designed to reduce air pollution. Foreign-plated vehicles need a free tourist pass but still can't drive 5-11AM weekdays. Not knowing these rules can result in hefty fines.

What is Hoy No Circula?

Hoy No Circula (literally "today it doesn't circulate") is an environmental program that operates in Mexico City (CDMX) and the State of Mexico. The program restricts when certain vehicles can be driven based on their license plate numbers. The goal is to reduce vehicle emissions and combat the city's notorious air pollution problem.

Weekday Restrictions for CDMX-Registered Vehicles

If your vehicle is registered in Mexico City, you cannot drive on certain weekdays between 5:00 AM and 10:00 PM based on the last digit of your license plate:

• Mondays: plates ending in 5 or 6
• Tuesdays: plates ending in 7 or 8
• Wednesdays: plates ending in 3 or 4
• Thursdays: plates ending in 1 or 2
• Fridays: plates ending in 9 or 0

Good news: weekends have no restrictions for most vehicles.

What About Foreign-Plated and Out-of-State Vehicles?

If you're driving a vehicle with non-Mexican plates (like US or Canadian plates) or plates from another Mexican state, you're not automatically exempt. However, you can get a free tourist pass to bypass the regular Hoy No Circula restrictions.

Tourist Pass Details

The tourist pass allows you to drive for a maximum of 14 days in each quarter of the year. You can choose passes for 3, 7, or 14 days depending on your needs.

Tourist Pass Driving Restrictions

Even with a tourist pass, you still face some limitations:

• Monday through Friday: You cannot drive between 5:00 AM and 11:00 AM
• Saturdays: You cannot drive between 5:00 AM and 10:00 PM

So while the pass gives you more flexibility than local drivers on their restricted days, you still need to plan around the morning rush hours.

How to Get a Tourist Pass

The process is straightforward:

1. Go to the official registration portal online
2. Have your vehicle registration documents ready
3. Select your desired pass duration (3, 7, or 14 days)
4. Complete the registration
5. Print your authorization and keep it in your vehicle

Vehicles That Are Automatically Exempt

Some vehicles don't need any special pass at all:

• Hybrid vehicles with proper license plates and windshield stickers
• Battery electric vehicles with proper documentation
• Vehicles with 0 or 00 emissions stickers (these are earned by passing strict emissions tests)

Note: Even exempt vehicles may face restrictions during environmental contingencies.

Environmental Contingencies

When pollution levels spike, Mexico City can declare an environmental contingency. During these periods:

• Tourist passes become invalid
• Additional vehicles are restricted from circulating
• Even some normally exempt vehicles may be affected

These contingencies are announced through local news and government channels. If you're in the city during a contingency, check the current restrictions before driving.

What Happens If You Violate the Rules?

Getting caught driving during your restricted time is expensive. Fines can be substantial - often several thousand pesos. Police conduct regular checks, especially on main avenues and during morning rush hours. It's simply not worth the risk.

Tips for Driving in Mexico City

• Get your tourist pass before you arrive if possible
• Plan activities around the morning restriction hours
• Keep your pass and vehicle documents in the car at all times
• Check for environmental contingencies before driving
• Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing during restricted hours
• Remember that the metro is excellent and taxis are affordable

Is It Worth Driving in CDMX?

Honestly? Mexico City's traffic is legendary - and not in a good way. Between the Hoy No Circula restrictions, heavy traffic, and the stress of navigating an unfamiliar mega-city, many visitors find it easier to use Uber, taxis, or the extensive metro system.

That said, if you're road-tripping through Mexico and need to pass through or spend a few days in the capital, the tourist pass makes it manageable. Just plan your driving times carefully.

Final Thoughts

The Hoy No Circula program is a necessary part of life in Mexico City. Understanding the rules before you arrive will save you from fines and frustration. Get your tourist pass sorted, respect the restrictions, and enjoy exploring one of the world's most fascinating cities.

Questions about driving in Mexico City? Leave them in the comments!

Related Mexico Travel Guides

• Explore Mexico City on ExpatsList
• Everyday Services in CDMX
• Mexico Cell Phone Registration Guide
• Legal Services in Mexico City

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