Mexico Mandates Registration for All Cell Phone Lines Starting January 9, 2026
Mexico City, January 7, 2026 – The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (CRT) has approved new guidelines requiring all active cell phone lines in Mexico, including physical SIM cards and eSIMs, to be linked to their owners’ identities starting January 9, 2026. This measure aims to eliminate anonymous use of mobile services, combat crimes such as fraud and scams, and align with international standards for data protection.
Key Details of the Mandate
The guidelines, published in the Official Gazette of the Federation on January 9, 2026, apply to both prepaid and postpaid services. Major operators like Telcel, AT&T, Movistar, Bait, and Altán Redes must prepare their systems and notify customers via SMS with instructions. Users can link up to 10 lines per person using documents such as the INE (elector’s credential), passport, CURP, or RFC. Existing lines have a 120-day grace period, until approximately June 2026, for registration.
How to Register Your Cell Phone Line
Registration will be handled through mobile operators’ platforms or physical modules. Customers will receive SMS notifications detailing steps and deadlines. For new lines, registration is immediate upon activation. The process mirrors existing postpaid service requirements but extends to all users to ensure data privacy under the Federal Law on the Protection of Personal Data Held by Private Parties.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to register within the operator-set deadlines will result in immediate service suspension, blocking calls, texts, and data access except for emergency calls and the citizen attention number. There are no direct financial penalties for users, but service can only be restored after completing registration.
Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | January 9, 2026 |
| Grace Period for Existing Lines | 120 calendar days, until approximately June 2026 |
| Maximum Lines per Person | 10 |
| Required Documents | INE, passport, CURP, or RFC |
| Non-Compliance Penalty | Service suspension (no calls, texts, or data except emergencies) |
| Operators Involved | Telcel, AT&T, Movistar, Bait, Altán Redes |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of this registration mandate?
The mandate aims to link all mobile lines to identifiable individuals or legal entities to prevent anonymous use in crimes like fraud, scams, and terrorism, while enhancing trust in mobile services and aligning with global practices.
Do I need to register new lines immediately?
Yes, registration is required upon activation for new lines. Existing lines have until approximately June 2026 to comply.
Will my personal data be protected?
Yes, operators must safeguard data in compliance with Mexico’s Federal Law on the Protection of Personal Data Held by Private Parties, similar to postpaid service standards.
What if I have more than 10 lines?
Only 10 lines can be linked per person. Excess lines may require reassignment or suspension if not compliant.
Are there any costs associated with registration?
The process is handled by operators at no additional cost to users, though some analysts suggest potential price increases for services in 2026 due to the new registry.