Hoy No Circula Saturday returns this weekend, and drivers in Mexico City and the surrounding metropolitan area need to know which cars can drive on August 1. The program, enforced by the Secretaría de Medio Ambiente de la Ciudad de México (SEDEMA), restricts certain vehicles to reduce pollution in the Valley of Mexico.
If you plan to drive this Saturday, you must check the last digit of your license plate and your vehicle's hologram. The restriction applies not only to the 16 boroughs of Mexico City but also to many municipalities in the State of Mexico.
What Is Hoy No Circula Saturday?
Hoy No Circula is a driving restriction program designed to cut down on the number of cars on the road and lower emissions. While the weekday rules are well known, Saturday operates under its own set of regulations that complement the Monday-to-Friday schedule.

The program does not affect all drivers equally each weekend. Your vehicle's engomado (color sticker), the last digit of your plate, and whether the date falls in an even or odd week all determine who must stay home and who can drive freely.
Who Can Drive on Saturday, August 1?
To know if you can drive on August 1, you need to verify your vehicle's hologram and plate number. The restrictions are based on a rotating schedule that considers the type of hologram (0, 00, 1, or 2) and the last digit of your license plate.
Vehicles with holograms 0 and 00 are generally exempt from the Saturday restriction, but they may still be subject to other rules. Cars with hologram 1 or 2 face more frequent restrictions, especially on Saturdays.
It is crucial to check the specific schedule for August 1, as the even or odd week designation changes the outcome. The program typically publishes a calendar indicating which plates are restricted each Saturday.
Where Does the Restriction Apply?
The Hoy No Circula Saturday program is not limited to Mexico City's 16 boroughs. It also applies in many municipalities of the State of Mexico that are part of the metropolitan area.
If your commute crosses through any of these areas, the restriction remains fully in effect. Drivers should be aware that the rules are enforced in these locations and fines can be issued for non-compliance.
Why Does the Program Matter?
The primary goal of Hoy No Circula is to reduce the number of cars on the streets to mitigate pollutant emissions. The Saturday program is an extension of this effort, targeting weekend traffic when many residents run errands or travel for leisure.
By limiting the number of vehicles, the program aims to improve air quality in the Valley of Mexico, which frequently experiences high pollution levels. The restrictions are part of a broader environmental strategy.
Key Takeaways for Drivers
- Check your vehicle's hologram and last plate digit before driving on Saturday.
- The restriction applies in both Mexico City and many State of Mexico municipalities.
- Holograms 0 and 00 are generally exempt, but always verify the specific date.
- Even or odd week designation affects which cars are restricted.
- Fines apply for non-compliance, so plan ahead.
Comparison of Hologram Restrictions
| Hologram Type | Weekday Restriction | Saturday Restriction |
|---|---|---|
| 0 and 00 | Exempt | Generally exempt |
| 1 | Restricted one day per week | Restricted on certain Saturdays |
| 2 | Restricted one day per week | Restricted more frequently |
Note: This table provides a general overview. Always consult the official SEDEMA calendar for the exact schedule on August 1. The background to this story is set out in Hoy No Circula Sabatino: Which Cars Can Drive on September 12. A related thread runs through Trending: latest articles.
What to Watch Next
Drivers should stay informed about any changes to the Hoy No Circula program, especially during periods of high pollution when additional restrictions may be imposed. The program can be modified in response to air quality alerts. Earlier coverage in Where You Cant Vape in New Jersey: The Rules Most Visitors Miss shows how the argument developed. A closer look at the same subject appears in Obesity and Urban Design: How Your Home Affects Your Weight.
For now, make sure you know your vehicle's status for Saturday, August 1, to avoid unexpected fines. Planning your trips around the restriction can help you avoid inconvenience. Anyone following the wider picture can start with Volvo SPA 3 Platform: One Central Brain for Your Next Car. The same theme surfaces in Greener Front Gardens Cut Air Pollution and Summer Heat, which takes a different angle.