Introduction
Starting January 9, 2026, all mobile phone lines in Mexico must be associated with an individual or legal entity. This article explains the requirements, step-by-step process for both in-person and remote registration, and consequences of not complying with the CRT’s deadline.
Background on the Mobile Line Identification
The Comisión Reguladora de Telecomunicaciones (CRT) has established guidelines for mobile line identification to ensure that each number is linked to a specific individual or entity. This measure aims to prevent the misuse of mobile services.
Remote Registration Process
The remote registration process will be conducted through each telephony provider’s Line Management Platform. Here are the steps:
- Display the privacy notice in accordance with Mexico’s Federal Law on the Protection of Personal Data in Private Hands.
- Allow consultation of the terms and conditions of the platform.
- Request capture of a valid official identification for identity verification.
- Request proof of life from the title holder. For Telcel, this is a selfie.
- Validate the CURP with the Registro Nacional de Población.
- Allow up to three attempts for linking the same mobile line. If unsuccessful, a notification will be sent to the title holder, inviting them to contact customer service for instructions on initiating a new process. For Telcel, customers must visit a service center.
- Once identity verification is successful, the linking process concludes, and a receipt with date and time is generated, enabling access to contracted services.
- For new lines, upon SIM insertion, the provider will send an SMS, email, or instant message with access information to the Line Management Platform.
Deadline and Consequences
If a user fails to register their number within 120 business days (by June 2026), their service will be suspended. However, the number won’t be lost; it can be recovered once the user’s details are updated.
“Any line not associated with a verified individual user will be suspended,” according to the Diario Oficial de la Federación. “These lines can only be used for emergency and citizen assistance calls (074, 079, 088, 089, and 911).”
Telcel has confirmed that this cellular linking applies to all users with rental plans (Tariff Plans) or prepaid plans (Amigo de Telcel) allowing voice call, SMS text messaging, and internet calling services.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the deadline for linking my mobile number to CURP? The deadline is June 2026. Failure to register within this period will result in service suspension.
- Which mobile services are affected by this change? This applies to all users with rental or prepaid plans that include voice calls, SMS messaging, and internet calling services.
- What happens if I don’t link my mobile number to CURP by the deadline? Your service will be suspended, but you can recover it once your details are updated.
- How many attempts do I have to link my mobile number to CURP? You are allowed up to three attempts.
