Background and Relevance
The State of Mexico government is set to implement the “Hoy No Circula” (Today Does Not Circulate) program fully in the Toluca and Santiago Tianguistenco valleys starting January 1, 2026. This initiative aims to reduce air pollution and promote a cleaner, healthier environment for the residents of 22 municipalities within these regions.
Who is Affected?
The program will affect 22 municipalities in the Toluca and Santiago Tianguistenco valleys, including Toluca, Metepec, Mexicaltzingo, Ocoyoacan, Otzolotepec, Rayon, San Antonio la Isla, San Mateo Atenco, Temoaya, Tenancingo, Xonacatlán, Zinacantepec, Almoloya de Juárez, Calimaya, Chapultepec, and Lerma in the Toluca valley; as well as Almoloya del Río, Atizapán, Capulhuac, Texcalyacac, Tianguistenco, and Xalatlaco in the Santiago Tianguistenco valley.
Why is this Important?
This program is part of a comprehensive policy to decrease atmospheric contaminant concentrations, encourage responsible vehicle use, and promote sustainable mobility alternatives. By implementing “Hoy No Circula,” the government seeks to minimize pollution and foster a healthier environment for its citizens.
How the Program Works
Restrictions:
- The program restricts the circulation of vehicles with verification holograms “1” and “2” from Monday to Saturday, between 5:00 AM and 10:00 PM.
- The restriction is based on the last numeric digit of the vehicle’s license plate and the color of the sticker.
Exemptions:
- Vehicles with “00”, “0” verification holograms, and disability plates are exempt.
- Units providing emergency services, school transportation, and funeral services are also exempt.
- Vehicles with “E” type exclusion certification are exempt.
Consultation:
Citizens can check their allowed circulation days by visiting the official website: https://sma.edomex.gob.mx/hoynocircula. The site provides information based on the last numeric digit of the license plate and the sticker color.
Community Involvement
The State of Mexico government encourages residents to participate in this collective effort for the environment by reducing car usage, sharing rides, walking, or cycling. These actions will contribute to cleaner air and improved quality of life for all.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Hoy No Circula program? It’s a government initiative to reduce air pollution by restricting vehicle circulation in specific areas on certain days.
- Which municipalities are affected? The program applies to 22 municipios in the Toluca and Santiago Tianguistenco valleys.
- When does the program start? The full implementation begins on January 1, 2026.
- Which vehicles are restricted? Vehicles with verification holograms “1” and “2” are restricted, except for those exempted.
- How can I check my circulation days? Visit the official website: https://sma.edomex.gob.mx/hoynocircula and enter your license plate information.
- What can I do to help? Reduce car usage, share rides, walk, or cycle to support cleaner air and a healthier environment.
