mexico City officials have extended the deadline to obtain a permanent driver’s license to the end of 2026, responding to overwhelming demand and logistical challenges that have plagued the rollout of the new system. The move, announced Tuesday, aims to ease frustration over limited appointment availability and lengthy wait times reported by residents attempting to comply with the mandateCiudad de México . Revenue generated from the more than 1.39 million licenses issued since November 2025-totaling over 2 billion pesos-will be directed toward an aspiring city-wide traffic safety overhaul.
Mexico City residents will have through the end of 2026 to obtain a permanent driver’s license, officials announced Tuesday, November 18, easing pressure on a system recently overwhelmed by demand. The extension aims to address long wait times and limited appointment availability that have frustrated applicants.
City officials extended the deadline in response to citizen concerns, according to a statement from Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada. Over 1.39 million permanent licenses were issued between November 16, 2025, and November 16, 2026, generating more than 2 billion pesos in revenue earmarked for the city’s new traffic safety plan.
New Safety Plan to Improve Mobility
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The revenue will fund a comprehensive plan to improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers, according to Mobility Secretary Héctor Ulises García Nieto. The plan includes improvements to 66 school zone crossings, with the installation of bollards and railings, as well as universal accessibility upgrades.
Another 166 city crossings will be reconfigured to increase pedestrian visibility, with new signage and pavement markings. The city also plans to expand its Ecobici bike-sharing program by adding 600 new stations and doubling the number of available bicycles.
In addition, the city will purchase 100 new buses for the RTP public transportation system and expand routes to outlying neighborhoods. Improvements to the city’s CETRAMS transportation hubs are also planned.
Requirements for a Permanent License
To obtain a permanent driver’s license in Mexico City, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a resident of Mexico City.
- Present a valid form of official identification (such as a voter ID, passport, or professional license).
- Provide recent proof of residency in Mexico City or the State of Mexico.
- Have no pending sanctions from the “Drive Without Alcohol” program or convictions for serious traffic offenses.
- Pay the required fee of 1,500 MXN.
First-time applicants for a Type A driver’s license must also pass a written exam. Those renewing an existing Type A license can apply for the permanent license as a renewal.
How to Apply
The application process involves the following steps:
- Create or log in to the Llave CDMX platform.
- Access the “Permanent Driver’s License” application on the official portal.
- Upload the required documents and generate a payment slip.
- Schedule an appointment at one of the Secretaría de Movilidad (SEMOVI) modules or authorized locations.
- Attend the appointment with original documents, proof of payment, and the completed application.
Once approved, the permanent license will be issued.
License Details
The permanent license is valid for automobiles (Type A license) and does not apply to motorcycles or other license types, such as A1/A2.
The move to extend the application period comes after reports of depleted appointment slots and early morning lines at licensing modules, Ciudad de México residents said on social media. The extension is intended to alleviate these issues and ensure more residents have the opportunity to obtain a permanent driver’s license.
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