In CDMX: the fine for driving with a cell phone now exceeds 4,000 pesos

Starting February 1, 2026, drivers in Mexico City must be prepared to pay significantly higher fines if caught committing traffic violations. The change is due to the update of the UMA (Unit of Measurement and Update), which sets penalty amounts in the capital, and this increase directly affects drivers’ wallets.

Why have traffic penalties increased in CDMX?

The increase results from the annual review of the UMA conducted by INEGI. For 2026, the daily value of this measure has been set at 117.31 pesos, representing a 3.69% increase compared to the previous year. Although this percentage may seem modest, its effects are immediately felt across all sanctions in the Capital’s Traffic Regulations.

The penalty system in CDMX does not use fixed amounts but calculates fines in UMA units. Therefore, when the measure is updated, all infractions—from minor violations to those with higher safety risks—experience proportional increases. This policy has been in effect since the beginning of last month.

How much will you pay if you use your phone while driving?

One of the most monitored and penalized behaviors is using a cellphone while driving. Since February, this violation is penalized with a fine ranging from 30 to 35 UMAs, which translates to 3,519.30 to 4,105.85 pesos in cash.

This figure clearly shows why avoiding distractions with mobile devices is crucial. It not only poses a significant risk to road safety but also has a substantial economic impact on personal budgets. A few seconds of distraction can result in expenses of over four thousand pesos.

Options to reduce the financial impact of the fine

Fortunately, there is a mechanism that allows you to save money if you act quickly. If you make the payment within the first 10 business days after receiving the notification, a 50% discount on the total amount is applied. This measure can save you up to 2,000 pesos in the case of the cellphone use fine.

Authorities emphasize practical recommendations to avoid these sanctions: keep your mobile device out of reach while driving, respect the established speed limits, and always have your vehicle documentation in order. In 2026, with the increases in effect, any traffic violation becomes considerably more costly than in previous years.