The air quality crisis in Mexico City and the State of Mexico has prompted the activation of the Doble Hoy No Circula program on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, due to Phase 1 of an environmental contingency caused by high ozone levels. This measure aims to mitigate pollution and protect public health, restricting numerous vehicles from circulating within the metropolitan area.
According to the Environmental Commission of the Megalopolis (CAMe), the air quality in the region has deteriorated significantly, with many monitoring stations reporting very poor conditions. As a result, the Doble Hoy No Circula will be enforced from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, impacting a wide range of vehicles.
On this day, drivers must be aware that the fines for violating the Doble Hoy No Circula regulations can be steep. In Mexico City, offenders could face fines ranging from 2,262 to 3,390 pesos, which corresponds to 20 to 30 times the Unidad de Medida y Actualización (UMA). For residents of the State of Mexico, the fine is set at 1,460.80 pesos, and vehicles may be impounded at the local 'corralón' (impound lot).
In addition to the initial fine, if a vehicle is taken to the corralón, an extra charge of 788 pesos applies, along with 82 pesos per day for storage. Thus, it’s crucial for drivers to comply with the restrictions to avoid escalating costs.
The specific restrictions for the Doble Hoy No Circula on April 2 include:
- Vehicles with verification hologram 2.
- Vehicles with verification hologram 1 whose last digits are 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, and 0.
- Vehicles with holograms 0 and 00, especially those with red stickers ending in 3 and 4.
For clarity, units without any verification hologram, such as antique cars, demonstration vehicles, or those with foreign plates, are subject to the same restrictions as those with hologram 2.
It's worth noting that the Doble Hoy No Circula program has specific exemptions. Electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as those with ecological registration or exempt type holograms, are allowed to circulate. Additionally, vehicles designated for medical emergencies, public transport, and those used by individuals with disabilities are exempt from the restrictions.
The Doble Hoy No Circula program has been in effect since 1990, aiming to stabilize air quality and reduce pollution emissions. The current air quality crisis underscores the importance of these measures as residents are urged to stay informed about air quality conditions and adhere to the regulations.
Local authorities recommend that sensitive groups, including the elderly, children, and individuals with health issues, avoid outdoor activities during this period of poor air quality. The CAMe's reports indicate that the situation is being closely monitored, and any changes in the air quality may lead to further adjustments in the restrictions.
For those who do receive a fine, payments can be made by printing the citation and visiting designated banks or convenience stores. Residents of the State of Mexico must access the Digital Infringement System, while those in Mexico City should visit the Finance Secretariat's website to settle their fines.
The following vehicles are exempt from the Doble Hoy No Circula:
- Motorcycles.
- Electric cars.
- Hybrid cars.
- Public and emergency transport vehicles.
- Vehicles for individuals with disabilities.
- Vehicles with valid hologram 1 and 2 that have yellow, pink, green, or blue stickers.
As the Doble Hoy No Circula continues to be a critical tool for managing air quality in the Mexico City metropolitan area, residents are encouraged to stay updated on environmental conditions and comply with regulations to ensure their safety and the well-being of the community.
