Mexico to Phase Out Cash for Tolls, Fuel by End-2026

The Mexican federal government will mandate digital payments for all highway tolls and gasoline purchases by the end of 2026, effectively eliminating cash as a valid payment method for these services. President Claudia Sheinbaum announced the measure at the 2026 Banking Convention, emphasizing that the initiative is a joint effort between the administration, financial institutions, and the private sector.

The policy aims to modernize the national financial system and accelerate the adoption of electronic payment platforms. According to the administration, the transition is expected to be completed before year-end. “Our goal is that this year, through schemes we develop with the banking sector, the payment of gasoline and tolls will be mandatory in digital form,” Sheinbaum said, addressing an audience of legislators and business leaders.

Under the new regulations, motorists will be required to use bank cards, electronic transfers, or Dimo (Dinero Móvil) to pay for fuel and road usage. Dimo, a platform developed by Mexico’s Central Bank (Banxico) is integrated into existing banking applications and enables instant transfers via the SPEI network using only a mobile phone number. This system is designed to provide immediate liquidity and enhance transaction security for both users and service providers.

The digital shift forms part of a broader 2026 economic strategy to strengthen the domestic economy and standardize government-related processes across municipal, state, and federal levels. By digitizing these high-frequency transactions, authorities aim to improve financial transparency and reduce the operational costs associated with cash handling.

Current toll rates for the 2025–2026 period highlight the financial scale of the transition. High-traffic routes originating from Mexico City, such as the Mexico–Acapulco highway, cost approximately MX$1,000 (US$57.54). Other key commercial corridors, including Mexico–Querétaro and Mexico–Puebla, have rates of MX$250 (US$14.38) and MX$216 (US$12.43), respectively. For long-haul transport and travel, cumulative toll expenses frequently exceed MX$1,000.

The Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transport (SICT) continues to publish updated rates through its “Traza tu Ruta” platform, as toll fees are subject to periodic adjustments. Authorities and the banking sector are currently finalizing agreements to ensure that gas stations and toll plazas nationwide have the infrastructure required to support mandatory digital transactions.