Quito, the capital of Ecuador, enforces a vehicle circulation system called Pico y Placa, which requires local drivers to refrain from driving during specified restricted hours based on their vehicle's license plate number. On Monday, March 23, 2026, cars with plates ending in 1 and 2 will be prohibited from circulating on the roads between 6:00 AM and 9:30 AM, and again from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This measure is aimed at reducing traffic congestion in the city during peak hours.

In addition to the restrictions, the city has outlined penalties for those who violate the Pico y Placa regulations. First-time offenders caught driving during the restricted hours face a fine of $72.30, which constitutes 15% of the unified basic salary (SBU). For a second violation, the penalty doubles to $144.60, representing 30% of the SBU, while a third infringement incurs a hefty fee of $241, equating to half of the SBU. These fines are intended to deter repeated violations and encourage compliance with traffic regulations.

The enforcement of these restrictions and penalties follows the recent approval of reforms to the municipal ordinance governing vehicle restrictions in Quito. Such measures reflect the city's ongoing efforts to manage vehicular traffic more efficiently and improve overall air quality in response to growing urban congestion and environmental concerns. The Pico y Placa system is part of a broader strategy to address these challenges while promoting sustainable urban mobility options for its residents.