On March 1, 2025, vehicle restrictions implemented under the Hoy No Circula program affect many drivers across the Mexico City metropolitan area, including both the City and surrounding areas of Estado de México. The program is enforced every Saturday, with the aim of curbing air pollution by regulating which vehicles can be on the road during designated hours.
This Saturday marks the first day of the month, which means specific regulations are activated for vehicles with Hologram 1 and certain plate termination numbers. According to the regulations, vehicles with Hologram 1 ending with the odd numbers 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9, as well as all vehicles with Hologram 2, are banned from circulating between the hours of 5:00 AM and 10:00 PM. Vehicles from outside of the metro area also have restrictions during this time.
Designed to combat elevated pollution levels, the Hoy No Circula program is especially significant following recent contingency alerts issued due to poor air quality. On February 26, 2025, the authorities declared such alerts due to high ozone levels, leading to tighter restrictions earlier this week. While the Doble Hoy No Circula was briefly implemented on Thursday, the regulations reverted back to ordinary conditions by the end of the week.
Under the scheme, drivers of vehicles with Hologram 0 or 00, electric or hybrid vehicles, motorcycles, and those registered for specific exemptions enjoy the freedom to drive without restrictions, even during the most rigorous pollution measures. This list includes emergency service vehicles, taxis, and those transporting persons with disabilities, agricultural machinery, and vehicles involved in funerary services.
Being aware of the specific regulations is important to avoid hefty fines. Failing to comply with the measures leads to fines ranging from 20 to 200 times the Unidad de Medida y Actualización (UMA), which can amount to significant financial repercussions depending on the infraction. Due to rising pollution levels, officials urge all vehicle owners to remain informed about their specific vehicle's hologram and compliance with the Hoy No Circula program, especially on days with elevated pollution warnings.
For this Saturday, the vehicles permitted to circulate include:
- Vehicles with Hologram 0 or 00.
- Electric vehicles and hybrids.
- Motorcycles.
- Agricultural tractors and construction machinery.
- Vehicles transporting emergency services personnel.
- School transportation and those equipped for individuals with disabilities.
- Taxis operating before 10:00 AM on restricted days.
- Vehicles granted tourist passes.
The Hoy No Circula program functions not only to reduce citizen exposure to harmful pollutants but also encourages the integration of more sustainable transportation technologies. The combined efforts to regulate vehicle access during peak traffic hours are part of larger initiatives focused on improving the region's overall air quality.
The applicability of the Hoy No Circula regulations is extensive, covering all 16 boroughs of Mexico City and 18 municipalities throughout the Estado de México, including places like Naucalpan, Tlalnepantla, and Ecatepec. These restrictions are strictly enforced and accompanied by public information campaigns to encourage compliance.
It is important for both residents and visitors to Mexico City and Estado de México to stay informed about the Hoy No Circula schedules and any changes related to air quality conditions, as the measures may alter with sudden shifts in pollution levels.
Drivers are strongly advised to monitor announcements from the Comisión Ambiental de la Megalópolis (CAMe) and other relevant authorities to avoid penalties. The impact of the Hoy No Circula program is felt throughout the metropolitan area, and adherence is key to maintaining compliance and caring for public health.
With significant fines and the threat of vehicle impoundment for non-compliance, it is wiser for drivers to verify their vehicle's observance of all necessary regulations before hitting the road.
Ensuring awareness of this environmental initiative demonstrates civic responsibility and contributes to collective health and environmental efforts.