Sanctioning period begins for Medellín's new 'pico y placa' traffic rotation

Medellín, Colombia, has transitioned from a grace period to full enforcement of its updated 'pico y placa' traffic restriction policy. Starting Monday, August 10, 2026, drivers caught violating the new rotation will face significant penalties, including a fine of $633,232 Colombian pesos and the possibility of their vehicle being impounded.

The 'pico y placa' measure, designed to manage traffic flow and reduce congestion, restricts vehicle circulation based on license plate numbers. The current rotation, established by the Metropolitan Area of the Aburrá Valley, will remain in effect throughout the second half of 2026 and into early 2027. The restrictions apply from Monday to Friday, between 5 a.m. and 8 p.m., with specific plate numbers assigned to each day.

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The Secretariat of Mobility reminds you that this Monday, August 10, the sanctioning period for the new 'pico y placa' rotation for private vehicles and motorcycles will begin. The entity invites citizens to consult the restricted plates in advance, check the hours, and plan their trips accordingly.

During the week of August 3 to August 6, the city implemented a "pedagogical period" to help residents adapt to the new scheme. During this time, monetary sanctions were not applied to private vehicles and motorcyclists. However, taxis were subject to the restrictions and penalties from the outset. The Secretary of Mobility for Medellín, Pablo Ruiz, urged citizens to familiarize themselves with the new restrictions, check restricted plates, and plan their journeys accordingly. He emphasized that the measure aims to create a more orderly, safe, and efficient transportation system for all road users.

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From the secretariat, we reiterate that this measure seeks to improve mobility in the city, making it much more orderly, safe, and efficient for all road users.