Quito Pico Y Placa Applies Again Thursday, June 25

Quito's vehicle restriction system is in force again on Thursday, June 25, 2026.

El Comercio reported that the city is applying Pico y Placa to reduce congestion during peak traffic hours.

What To Know

Pico y Placa is Quito's weekday vehicle-restriction system. It limits circulation for certain license-plate endings during the morning and evening rush windows.

The rule matters most if you drive into central or high-traffic areas of the capital, commute from the valleys, or have appointments where arriving by car is the default plan.

What This Means For Expats

If you live in Quito, do not treat Pico y Placa as background noise. Fines and towing risk can turn a simple appointment into an expensive problem.

Before driving, check the current municipal schedule for your plate ending, and consider Metro, taxi or ride-hailing options if your car is restricted.

For visitors from Cuenca, Manta, Cotacachi or elsewhere, remember that Quito's traffic rules may apply even if your vehicle is registered in another province.

Source: El Comercio