The permanent license: a return with a taste of bureaucracy?
Ah, the permanent driver’s license, that holy grail of capital motorists that disappeared in 2007 as if it were a forgotten meme. But surprise! The CDMX government decided to revive it in 2024, because apparently they love to play “we come and go” with our procedures. Of course, don’t expect it to be as easy as ordering an Uber Eats.
Who can apply? (Spoiler: it’s not for everyone)
If you are one of those who already have a type A license (the one that expires every three years like it were milk), congratulations, you can try upgrading to the “forever” version. But if you’re new to driving, be prepared to take the theory test, because, of course, the government doesn’t trust you to know that red means “stop” without first certifying it. Of course, forget about using it for your motorcycle, because here it only applies to private vehicles. No more feeling the wind on your face while you dodge potholes.
The cost? 1,500 pesos, which is basically what you would spend on three outings to a trendy bar (not counting tips). Of course, the Secretariat of Mobility warns that this is a “pilot”, so in the future they may say “psyche!” and cancel it again. Typical.
The online procedure: a labyrinth worthy of “Black Mirror”
For the brave ones who decide to venture, here is the step by step (with all the digital bureaucracy that we love to hate):
- Login with Key CDMX Expediente (because, of course, you need one more account in your life).
- Click on “Start” and then on “New procedure” (yes, as if you were buying tickets for a Bad Bunny concert).
- Choose whether to pay online or with a pickup line (because sometimes technology fails and you have to go back to vintage methods).
- Upload your official ID, proof that you don’t owe the government money (ha!) and your theory course certificate (if you’re new to this).
- Wait 72 hours for the payment to reflect (that is, three days to regret it).
- If all goes well, you will receive your digital certificate (which you will probably lose in the sea of unread emails).
Oh, and don’t forget to check if you have outstanding fines, because the government always finds a way to tell you “we got you.”
Is it worth the effort?
It depends. If you hate renewing your license every three years like a Netflix subscription, maybe yes. But if you are one of those who lose your wallet every two months, it may not be your best investment. Of course, it is a flex to say that you have a “permanent” license in a city where even traffic lights are optional.
Ready for the procedure? Share this information with that friend who is always late because “his license expired” and continue browsing our site for more guides that will save you from the capital’s bureaucracy. 🚗💨
