CURP stands for "Clave Única de Registro de Población" (Unique Population Registry Code), which is a unique identity code for both citizens and residents of Mexico. Each CURP code is a unique alphanumeric 18-character string intended to prevent duplicate entries. It functions similarly to a Social Security Number in the US or a Social Insurance Number in Canada.
Key characteristics of CURP:
- Every number is unique to the person it identifies and is generated from information about each holder, such as name and date of birth
- Once you get a CURP, you will use it for your whole life. They do not change
- It was established through a Presidential Agreement on October 23, 1996, with the first CURP issued to then-President Ernesto Zedillo Ponce de León
What CURP is Used For
Based on both the Russian text and current information, CURP is required for numerous official procedures in Mexico:
- Banking: Opening accounts at any bank
- Vehicle transactions: Buying and registering a car
- Taxes: Filing taxes and obtaining an RFC (tax ID number)
- Driver's license: Getting a Mexican driver's license
- Healthcare: Joining the national healthcare program with IMSS (Mexican Institute for Social Security)
- Real estate: Getting a homeowner's exemption from paying capital gains tax on a future sale of Mexican property
- Employment: Required for formal employment in Mexico
- Government services: Accessing various government programs and benefits
How to Get Your CURP - 2025 Update
For Residents (Major Change):
The most significant update since the Russian text was written is that CURP is now automatically generated and printed on your residency card as part of the residency application process. There is no longer a necessity to apply for it separately. This represents a major streamlining of the process.
Current process:
- Once you acquire temporary or permanent residency in Mexico, your CURP will be generated. You will not receive one unless you are a resident or citizen. It is printed on all new resident cards
- If you have an older residency card without CURP printed on it, you can find your CURP online at https://www.gob.mx/curp/
- For certain administrative tasks, you need to present a current printout of your CURP that's no older than three months
For Mexican Citizens: If you're a Mexican citizen without a CURP, you need to visit a Civil Registry office with:
- Birth certificate
- Valid official photo ID (passport, voting credential, etc.)
- Proof of non-registration of CURP (if applicable)
2025 Technology Update: As of 2025, Mexico is introducing the Biometric CURP, an upgraded version that incorporates biometric data such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scans. This new system aims to improve security, prevent identity fraud, and streamline administrative processes.
How to Print Your CURP Online
You can obtain a current CURP certificate at https://www.gob.mx/curp/ by either:
- Entering your CURP number if you know it
- Using your personal data (name, birth date, etc.) if you don't know your CURP number
The service is free and can be used as often as necessary. The certificate now includes enhanced security features including QR codes and verification elements.
This updated process is much more streamlined than what was described in the Russian text, eliminating the separate application requirement for residents while maintaining the same essential functions and importance of the CURP system.