Understanding the CURP Linking Requirement for Mobile Numbers
Starting in 2026, you must link your cell phone number to your Clave Única de Registro de Población (CURP) to avoid being cut off. Here’s what you need to know about the deadlines set by Telcel and AT&T.
Background on CURP Linking
The Mexican telecommunications regulator, the Comisión Reguladora de Telecomunicaciones (CRT), has issued guidelines requiring all mobile phone lines to be associated with an individual or legal entity by January 2026. This measure aims to identify the person behind each number and combat unlawful use of mobile services.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
If you fail to link your number within 120 business days (by June 2026), your service will be suspended. However, the number won’t be lost; it can be recovered once you provide your user data.
“Any line not associated with a verified end-user will be suspended and can only be used for emergency and citizen assistance calls (074, 079, 088, 089, and 911),” according to the Diario Oficial de la Federación.
Telcel and AT&T Deadlines
As of the third quarter of the year, Mexico has 158 million active mobile lines, with 16.7% being postpaid and the rest prepaid, according to The Competitive Intelligence Unit (The CIU).
Telcel and AT&T, the two largest companies in the market, have announced their respective deadlines.
Telcel’s Deadline
Telcel, the largest mobile operator in Mexico, will begin its registration process on January 7th. Users have until June 29th to link their numbers.
“From June 30, 2026, all unlinked lines will be suspended until the linking process is completed,” Telcel stated.
AT&T’s Deadline
AT&T announced that starting January 7, 2026, all new lines must be linked for service. If you activated your line before January 7, 2026, you have until June 26, 2026, to link it. Failure to do so before the deadline will result in an unserviceable line until linking is completed.
If you purchase a cell phone after January 7, 2026, you must link it to the carrier before using it.
Linking Process
You can complete this process either in-person at the service provider’s customer service centers or remotely through the mobile line management platform each provider will offer.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the deadline to link my cell phone number to my CURP? Telcel’s deadline is June 29, 2026, while AT&T requires linking by January 7, 2026, for new lines. If you activated your line before these dates, link it by June 26, 2026.
- What happens if I don’t link my number by the deadline? Your service will be suspended until you complete the linking process.
- Can I link my number remotely? Yes, each service provider will offer a mobile line management platform for remote linking.
- What if I buy a new phone after the deadline? You must link it to your chosen carrier before using it.
