Hoy No Circula Sabatino: Navigating Weekend Driving Restrictions in Mexico City

Mexico City’s (CDMX) “Hoy No Circula Sabatino” (Saturday No Driving) program is a key component of the city’s efforts to combat air pollution. It extends the weekday “Hoy No Circula” restrictions to Saturdays, impacting many residents and visitors who rely on their vehicles for weekend activities.

How it Works

On Saturdays, the program restricts vehicle circulation based on the last digit of the vehicle’s license plate number and the holographic verification sticker (holograma) it displays. Holograms are issued based on a vehicle’s emissions performance, with “00” being the cleanest and “2” being the most polluting. The rules can seem complex, but here’s a simplified breakdown:

• Hologram 00: These vehicles are exempt from the “Hoy No Circula Sabatino” program and can circulate freely every Saturday.
• Hologram 0: These vehicles are typically exempt from the program, but may be restricted on specific Saturdays during periods of high pollution (environmental contingencies). These restrictions are announced in advance.
• Hologram 1: These vehicles are restricted from circulation on the first and third Saturday of each month if their license plate ends in an odd number, and on the second and fourth Saturday if it ends in an even number.
• Hologram 2: These vehicles are restricted from circulation every Saturday.

It’s crucial to remember that these restrictions apply within Mexico City and some municipalities in the State of Mexico (Estado de México), which comprise the Metropolitan Area of the Valley of Mexico. It’s essential to check the specific municipalities included in the program, as this can sometimes vary.

Checking the Restriction Schedule

The specific “Hoy No Circula Sabatino” restrictions for a given Saturday are usually announced well in advance by the environmental authorities (SEDEMA – Secretaría del Medio Ambiente). You can find this information on their official website, social media channels, and local news outlets. Many websites and apps also aggregate this information, making it easy to determine if your vehicle is restricted.

Exemptions and Considerations

Certain vehicles are exempt from the “Hoy No Circula Sabatino” program, including:

• Vehicles with foreign license plates (although there are limitations; see below)
• Electric and hybrid vehicles
• Vehicles used for emergency services (ambulances, police cars, fire trucks)
• Vehicles used by people with disabilities, properly identified

Vehicles with foreign license plates are generally allowed to circulate, but they are subject to a different set of rules. They need to obtain a “pase turístico” (tourist pass) if they plan to circulate for more than a few days. This pass is available online and is free of charge for short stays. Failure to obtain the pass or abide by the rules can result in fines.

Environmental Contingencies

During periods of high air pollution, the authorities may declare an environmental contingency (contingencia ambiental). This triggers stricter “Hoy No Circula” rules, often restricting the circulation of vehicles with Hologram 0 and increasing restrictions for other vehicles. These contingencies are announced with short notice, so it’s important to stay informed during periods of poor air quality.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Driving your vehicle on a day it’s restricted can result in a hefty fine and impoundment of the vehicle. Enforcement is usually carried out by traffic police and through camera systems. It’s best to avoid the risk and comply with the “Hoy No Circula Sabatino” program.

Understanding and complying with the “Hoy No Circula Sabatino” program is crucial for driving in Mexico City on weekends. By staying informed about the rules, checking the daily restrictions, and considering alternative transportation options, you can avoid fines and contribute to a cleaner environment.