The amendments to the Traffic Regulations for Federal Jurisdiction Highways and Bridges, published in the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF) on June 9 and August 13, 2026, introduce significant changes for federal motor carriers and private transportation in Mexico:

1.National Guard as the operating authority. The National Guard’s powers to inspect, monitor, sanction, and issue traffic citations on federal highways are formalized, replacing the Federal Police.

2.Electronic hours-of-service logbooks. Drivers may carry the hours-of-service logbook in printed or electronic format. Failure to carry one is subject to a fine of 20 to 30 times the Measurement and Updating Unit (“UMA”), approximately $2,346 to $3,519 pesos.

3.Enhanced inspections. Authorities are granted broader powers to verify brakes, emissions, and physical and mechanical conditions in accordance with Mexican Official Standards (NOMs).

4.Alcohol and substance detection tests. The National Guard may conduct detection tests; refusal to submit to them results in an automatic sanction.

5.Reduction in fines. Various penalty ranges were reduced from 60 to 25-30 UMAs, following the 2026 UMA increase, approximately $117.31 MXN daily.

6.New penalty for operating without a valid permit: a fine of 50 to 55 UMAs, approximately $6,452 MXN.

7.Up to 50% discount on fines. If the driver accepts the citation, the fine is set at its minimum with a 25% discount, plus an additional 25% discount for payment within 15 business days.

These amendments require an immediate review of internal protocols: updating logbooks, verifying mechanical conditions, and training operators on new inspection procedures to ensure regulatory compliance and protect operations and the transportation of cargo movement.