Using a mobile phone while driving in Tamaulipas (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Driving using communication devices such as mobile phones is banned in Tamaulipas, and the 2026 state traffic regulation bans holding a phone to talk or send messages. The state law sets a minimum fine of ten times the daily UMA, which municipalities may raise, and licence suspension of up to six months.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Holding a phone while driving bannedUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Yes [1] |
| Hands-free useUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies)Using a mobile phone while driving a car | 1,173.10 MXN per offence [1] |
| Penalty points on the licenceUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Texting while drivingUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Drivers may not hold radio equipment, mobile phones or tablets in their hands and use them to talk or send messages. [2] |
Notes
- Art. 19 Ter II bans driving using communication devices such as radios and mobile phones, and section III bans using cellular, satellite or radio communication devices in any of their functions. The Congress consultation text updated to 5 October 2026 has the same wording; the gazette-published text read is the version of 14 July 2021.
- The articles read contain no hands-free exception, and none of the allowed values describes a total ban.
- Art. 49 Bis I b sets a minimum of ten times the daily UMA for breaches of Art. 19 Ter II and III; the fine cannot be waived or reduced and municipalities may set higher fines. The amount uses the 2026 UMA of MXN 117.31 (10 x 117.31 = 1,173.10).
- The law read has no penalty-point system; it provides for licence suspension of up to six months for breaches of Art. 19 Ter II and III (Art. 49 Bis II c).
Sources
- Gobierno del Estado de Tamaulipas (Periódico Oficial del Estado): Ley de Tránsito (consolidated text published by the Periódico Oficial, last reform POE No. 83 of 14 July 2021) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Periódico Oficial del Estado de Tamaulipas: Reglamento de Tránsito del Estado de Tamaulipas (Anexo al POE No. 17, 10 de febrero de 2026) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
More rules in Tamaulipas
- Car speed limitsBuilt-up areas: 30 km/h secondary; 50 km/h primary avenues · Outside built-up areas (single carriageway): 80 km/h
- Minimum age for a car driving licenceMinimum age for a car licence: 18 for a full licence
- Seat belts and child seatsSeat belt compulsory in front seats: Yes, all passengers · Seat belt compulsory in rear seats: Yes, all passengers
- Drink-driving limitsBlood alcohol limit for ordinary drivers: 0.08% (0.4 mg/l breath)
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.