In Quito, the government has established a traffic regulation system known as Pico y Placa, aimed at controlling vehicle circulation in the city. The system restricts vehicles from circulating during specific hours based on the last digit of their license plates. For Wednesday, March 4, 2026, vehicles with plates ending in 5 and 6 will be prohibited from circulating between 6:00 AM to 9:30 AM and again from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This regulation includes both cars and motorcycles, and it is a part of larger efforts to reduce congestion in the capital.

The enforcement of the Pico y Placa system comes with strict penalties for noncompliance. The fines are structured to increase with repeated violations; first-time offenders face a penalty of $72.30, which equates to 15% of the unified basic salary (SBU). Subsequent infractions lead to stiffer punishments, with the second violation incurring a fee of $144.60 (30% of the SBU), and a third infraction costing $241, equivalent to 50% of the SBU for 2026. These financial penalties are intended to deter drivers from ignoring the established restrictions.

The measures, recently bolstered by amendments to the existing ordinance governing vehicular restrictions, highlight the city's commitment to managing traffic flow amid growing urbanization. The Pico y Placa system aims to improve air quality and traffic conditions, responding to persistent challenges within Quito's infrastructure due to the rising number of vehicles on the roads. Residents are urged to familiarize themselves with the updated regulations to avoid penalties and contribute to a smoother commuting experience in the capital.