It’s funny how bureaucracy can swing between “Why does this even exist?” and “Where has this been all my life?” The permanent driver’s license in CDMX is firmly in that second camp. It’s like discovering your city has been hiding a secret VIP pass that lets you skip every annoying license renewal queue—for life. But before you get too cozy imagining yourself never again printing proof of address, there’s a catch: this isn’t forever. In fact, the deadline is already staring us down.
Why Everyone’s Talking About It
The permanent license has been around since 2007, but it’s had a bumpy ride. Due to administrative and budget hiccups, it vanished for years, leaving drivers stuck in the every-few-years renewal cycle. Now, after more than a decade, it’s back—and people are scrambling. Think Black Friday but with more paperwork and fewer elbows in your ribs.
This is the kind of thing that makes you breathe easier: one process, one payment, and you’re set for life (unless you get into serious trouble on the road). No more remembering deadlines, no more hunting for that utility bill you swore you just had, no more fighting with an online form at 11:59 PM.
What “Permanent” Actually Means
A lot of people hear “permanent” and think “indestructible.” Not so. Your license can still be revoked if you commit serious traffic violations—driving drunk, causing a major accident, or other high-risk offenses. What you’re skipping is the need to renew it. Keep it clean, drive responsibly, and your license remains valid as long as you do.
| Permanent License Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Validity | For life (unless revoked for serious offenses) |
| Cost | $1,500 MXN |
| Who skips the driving test | Current holders of a CDMX Type A license |
| Deadline to apply | December 31, 2025 |
| Application method | Online via Llave CDMX portal |
Who Can Apply and How
If you already have a Type A driver’s license from CDMX, you’re in luck—you don’t have to retake the driving test. First-timers in the capital will still need to prove their skills behind the wheel.
The process is straightforward:
- Get your Llave CDMX account set up.
- Gather your documents: valid ID, proof of address (issued within the last 3 months), and proof of payment.
- Pay the fee: $1,500 MXN.
- Apply online and wait for confirmation.
- Pick up your shiny new permanent license at a designated office—and yes, you’ll get a digital version too.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
The city government hasn’t confirmed any extensions. The end-of-2025 deadline is looking pretty solid. This program has disappeared before, and once it’s gone, there’s no telling if or when it will return. If you’re even mildly interested, now’s the time to act.
What Happens If You Lose It?
Lose the plastic card and you can request a replacement—it doesn’t cancel your permanent status. Lose it due to reckless driving, and that’s a different story. This isn’t a “get out of jail free” card; it’s a “don’t worry about renewals if you play by the rules” card.
The Bottom Line
For forgetful folks, frequent travelers, or just anyone tired of the DMV-style dance, this is a once-in-a-decade opportunity. You’ve got until December 31, 2025, to lock it in. After that, you might be stuck setting renewal reminders again, and honestly—life’s too short for that kind of stress.
FAQs:
Can I apply if I live outside CDMX?
Only if you can prove residence in CDMX and meet the other requirements.
Do I need a medical exam?
Not if you’re renewing from a valid Type A license. First-time applicants may have additional requirements.
Is the process fully online?
Mostly—you’ll still need to pick up your physical license in person.
