I just checked, and the fine for using a cell phone in Mexico City has increased significantly since February. If you're caught using your phone while driving, it now costs between 3,500 and 4,100 pesos, no more, no less. It used to be less based on the UMA, but this year they updated the value to 117.31 pesos per day, so everything is reflected in the penalties.

What most people don't know is that there's a discount if you pay quickly. If you settle the fine within the first 10 business days after being notified, you get a 50% reduction. Basically, you save half, so if you get a cell phone fine in Mexico City, it's better not to wait.

The truth is that any traffic violation in the city now hits harder. It's not just the cell phone one, but all of them. Since February, they've been applying this everywhere. So if you drive around there, it's better to respect the limits and keep your phone still, because any slip-up will be costly this year.