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๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡จ Ecuador /Energy & Infrastructure

Quito begins technical vehicle inspections for plates ending in 7

From El Comercio · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Drivers in Quito with license plates ending in 7 must complete mandatory vehicle technical inspections starting August 1, 2026.
  • Owners must settle all outstanding vehicle-related financial obligations, including registration, inspection fees, and traffic fines, before scheduling an appointment.
  • The Metropolitan Transit Agency reported that over 354,000 vehicles have undergone inspections this year, with nearly 100,000 failing the initial check.

Vehicle owners in Quito whose license plates end with the number 7 are required to complete the mandatory Technical Vehicle Inspection (RTV) starting August 1, 2026. The Metropolitan Transit Agency (AMT) confirmed this is a compulsory requirement for mobility within the Quito Metropolitan District. Failure to comply could lead to legal issues.

This annual procedure ensures vehicles operate under optimal safety conditions. Before scheduling an inspection appointment, vehicle owners must ensure all financial obligations are current. This includes payment of the annual registration, the RTV fee, the RTV sticker cost, road tax, and any fees owed to the Prefecture. The system will also verify that no outstanding traffic fines or violations exist.

Once the system confirms the absence of debts, users can select a date and time for their inspection at authorized centers via the AMT's online platform. So far in 2026, the AMT has reported that 354,781 vehicles have completed their RTV in the capital. Of these, 255,717 vehicles passed on their first attempt, while 99,064 failed and will require a follow-up inspection within 45 days, focusing on the rejected components.

The AMT operates six specialized centers for the RTV, employing a rigorous three-stage protocol. The inspection covers noise and emissions, lights, seatbelts, tires, chassis, brakes, suspension, alignment, and the vehicle's underside. Common reasons for failing the inspection include excessive emissions, faulty brake systems, lighting issues, worn tires, and alignment problems. The agency advises drivers to perform preventive checks at private workshops before their official inspection.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by El Comercio in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.