In Quito, Ecuador, the local government maintains a vehicle circulation system known as Pico y Placa, aimed at reducing traffic congestion by restricting vehicle use based on license plate numbers. On Friday, March 6, 2026, vehicles with license plates ending in 9 and 0 will not be allowed to circulate during specific hours: from 6:00 AM to 9:30 AM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This regulation applies to both cars and motorcycles, impacting a significant number of daily commuters in the capital city.

The Pico y Placa system mandates that drivers adhere to these circulation restrictions, with fines imposed for violations. First-time offenders can expect a fine of $72.30, which amounts to 15% of the unified basic salary (SBU) in Ecuador. Repeated violations lead to increased penalties: the second offense results in a fine of $144.60 (30% of the SBU), and the third offense incurs a much steeper fine of $241 (50% of the SBU). These penalties reflect the city's commitment to enforcing traffic regulations and managing urban mobility effectively.

The adjustments to the Pico y Placa schedule are part of an ongoing effort to refine traffic management in Quito, especially given the increasing number of vehicles on the roads. The city's authorities hope that by strictly enforcing these regulations, they can reduce traffic congestion and pollution, making the city a more livable environment for its residents. This system has been met with mixed reactions, highlighting the balance between mobility, enforcement, and public frustration among vehicle owners in the capital.