Mexico City to Phase Out Permanent Driver's Licenses by End of 2026

The opportunity to obtain a permanent driver's license in Mexico City is drawing to a close. The city government has announced that the program will cease accepting new applications after December 31, 2026. However, individuals who already possess a permanent license will not be affected and their licenses will remain valid.

The permanent driver's license program was reinstated in 2025 and was initially intended to be available for a limited time. The government later extended the period, allowing residents throughout 2026 to apply. The final deadline for submitting an application is the last day of 2026.

It is important to note that this change only affects the issuance of new permanent licenses. Existing permanent licenses will not be revoked. The program's closure means that residents must complete their applications by the end of 2026 if they wish to obtain this type of license.

The cost for a permanent driver's license is 1,500 pesos. Applicants who already hold a Type A license can transition to a permanent one by providing their existing license details and generating a payment line. For first-time applicants, additional requirements apply, including demonstrating knowledge of road safety, signaling, and traffic regulations through an evaluation.

While permanent licenses offer the convenience of not requiring periodic renewal, they do not exempt drivers from adhering to traffic laws. The Mobility Law of Mexico City outlines several circumstances under which a permanent license can be canceled, including causing injury through negligence, presenting false information during the application process, accumulating certain traffic violations, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.