Manipulating a GPS device while driving in the State of Mexico can now cost you a fine of over two thousand pesos; here, we explain which actions behind the wheel may be penalized by State of Mexico authorities.
Although apps like Waze and Google Maps are used daily to avoid traffic and find quick routes, authorities in the State of Mexico consider it a traffic violation to use or touch these devices while the vehicle is in motion.
This measure is part of a broader effort to reduce traffic accidents linked to distracted driving—one of the leading causes of traffic-related fatalities and injuries in the state, alongside speeding and alcohol consumption.
How much is the fine for using a GPS in the State of Mexico?
Article 90, Section XXV of the State of Mexico Traffic Regulations establishes fines for drivers who use distracting devices—such as cell phones, GPS units, or navigation apps—while operating a vehicle.
For 2026, the value of the Unit of Measurement and Updating (UMA) has been set at 117.31 pesos; consequently, fines are calculated as follows:
Minimum fine: 16 UMA, equivalent to 1,876.96 pesos.
Maximum fine: 20 UMA, equivalent to 2,346.20 pesos.
The specific amount will depend on the traffic officer’s assessment and whether the driver’s behavior poses an additional risk to other drivers or pedestrians.
Which GPS-related actions are prohibited?
State regulations stipulate that any manipulation of a GPS device must be performed only when the vehicle is completely stopped.
Among the actions subject to penalties are:
Entering addresses or destinations while the car is in motion.
Changing routes within the navigation app.
Searching for gas stations, restaurants, or alternative stops.
Zooming in on or moving the map using one’s fingers.
Responding to notifications related to navigation.
Authorities consider that these practices divert a driver’s attention and increase the risk of accidents.
Why is a GPS device considered a distraction? The Secretariat of Mobility of the State of Mexico explains that the use of GPS devices creates various types of distraction:
Visual: The driver takes their eyes off the road for several seconds.
Physical: At least one hand is removed from the steering wheel.
Cognitive: Mental attention is focused on the screen rather than on the roadway.
Reaction-based: The ability to respond to sudden braking or the presence of pedestrians is diminished.
For this reason, the regulations equate the use of a GPS device to the use of a cell phone while driving.
In which municipalities does this fine apply?
Among the main municipalities where you can indeed be fined for manipulating applications such as Waze or Google Maps while driving are:
Toluca
Ecatepec de Morelos
Naucalpan de Juárez
Tlalnepantla de Baz
Nezahualcóyotl
Metepec
Cuautitlán Izcalli
Tecámac
Chalco
Ixtapaluca
La Paz
Tultitlán
Zumpango
Lerma
San Mateo Atenco
Atlacomulco
Atizapán de Zaragoza
Chimalhuacán
Source: milenio
