Mexico City Implements New Driving License Requirements: Theory and Practical Exams Now Mandatory
Mexico City, September 24, 2026 – Obtaining a driver’s license in Mexico City is about to become a more rigorous process. The Secretariat of Mobility (Semovi) has published new guidelines in the Official Gazette, mandating both a theoretical knowledge test and a practical driving examination for all applicants. This change aims to ensure that drivers possess the necessary knowledge and skills to operate a vehicle safely on the city’s roads.
For decades, acquiring a driver’s license in Mexico City was a relatively straightforward procedure, often requiring only documentation and payment. The new regulations, announced on Monday, September 21, by Semovi, are set to transform this process, requiring prospective drivers to demonstrate a thorough understanding of traffic regulations and practical driving proficiency.
What the Semovi Guidelines Entail
The document, titled ‘Guidelines for the Authorization of Certification and Competency Evaluation Entities, and Evaluation Centers,’ outlines the framework for accrediting organizations responsible for administering these new tests. Applicants will now be required to pass a knowledge evaluation (theoretical exam) and a performance or skill evaluation (practical test) to assess their ability to operate a vehicle safely.
Licenses Requiring New Examinations
These evaluations will apply to all seven types of licenses issued in Mexico City:
- Type A: Private vehicles.
- Type A1 and A2: Motorcycles, with A2 also covering private automobiles.
- Type B: Taxis.
- Type C: Collective public transport.
- Type D: Cargo transport.
- Type E: Special services, such as school transport, personnel transport, or emergency vehicles.
The specific content and emphasis of the theoretical and practical components will vary depending on the license type. While theoretical and practical certification for motorcycle licenses already existed, the new mandate extends these requirements to all individuals seeking a license for automobiles.
What Happens if an Applicant Fails?
Applicants must successfully pass both evaluations to obtain their license. If a test is failed, it must be retaken until a passing score is achieved. Results will be communicated via email, and upon successful completion, applicants can proceed with the remaining licensing procedures through Semovi.
Who Will Administer the Evaluations?
The tests will not be directly administered by the government. Instead, they will be conducted by Certification and Competency Evaluation Entities accredited by Conocer, as well as Evaluation Centers authorized by Semovi. These centers will be required to utilize the digital systems and platforms provided by Semovi. Each center’s authorization will be valid for one year and can be renewed if all obligations are met.
This decentralized approach is expected to streamline the process by distributing the workload across multiple centers, rather than concentrating it solely at Semovi modules.
Unanswered Questions Remain
As of now, several details regarding the new testing system are yet to be clarified. These include the duration of the evaluations, the minimum passing score, and the specific maneuvers that will be part of the practical test. Furthermore, a precise effective date for the mandatory examination for Type A licenses has not been announced, nor has information been provided regarding any additional costs associated with the tests.
Source: https://www.eleconomista.com.mx/autos/licencia-manejo-cdmx-examen-teorico-practico-semovi-20260924-835163.html
