The city of Quito, Ecuador, operates a vehicle circulation regulation known as Pico y Placa, which mandates that motorists refrain from driving during certain restricted times based on their vehicle's license plate number. On Tuesday, March 17, 2026, vehicles with license plates ending in the numbers 3 and 4 will be prohibited from circulating from 6:00 AM to 9:30 AM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This initiative aims to reduce traffic congestion during peak hours and promote the use of alternative transport options.

In addition to the traffic schedule, the article outlines the penalties for violating the Pico y Placa rules. The first offense will incur a fine of $72.30, representing 15% of the unified basic salary (SBU). Subsequent violations will result in increased fines, with the second offense amounting to $144.60 (30% of SBU) and a third offense resulting in a $241 penalty, equating to half of the SBU for the year 2026. These fines are designed to enforce compliance and encourage adherence to the traffic regulations.

The enforcement of the Pico y Placa system is part of Quito's broader strategy to address urban mobility challenges and enhance the efficiency of public transportation. As the population grows and vehicle ownership increases, such measures become crucial for maintaining manageable traffic flow and reducing environmental impacts associated with high traffic density. As the date approaches, awareness campaigns may be expected to inform residents about the restrictions and penalties, aiming to mitigate confusion and promote compliance.