If you drive in Makati or commute through its central business district, you have likely encountered or heard about the city’s strict number coding rules. Makati implements one of the toughest versions of Metro Manila’s number coding scheme, with no mid-day window hours and continuous enforcement from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays. A single violation can result in a substantial fine, and repeat offenses within a year carry significantly higher penalties plus possible mandatory seminars. This guide explains exactly how Makati’s rules work in 2026, what the fines are, who qualifies for exemptions, what to do if you receive a ticket, and practical steps to avoid problems.

What Is the Number Coding Scheme in Makati?

Makati follows the Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP), commonly called number coding or traffic coding. The goal is to reduce traffic congestion in the city’s dense business and residential areas by restricting certain private vehicles on specific weekdays based on the last digit of their license plate (or conduction sticker for new vehicles).

Makati enforces its own local version under the Makati City Traffic Code (City Ordinance No. 2003-89, as supplemented by updates aligned with the Metro Manila Single Ticketing System). While it coordinates with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Makati’s Public Safety Department (PSD) traffic enforcers issue Ordinance Violation Receipts (OVR) for violations on city roads. This makes Makati’s implementation stricter and more localized than in many neighboring cities.

The rules apply to most private cars, SUVs, vans, and similar vehicles on virtually all roads within Makati’s jurisdiction, including Ayala Avenue, EDSA (Makati portion), Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue (Buendia), and interior streets in the CBD and surrounding barangays.

Coding Hours and Plate Schedule in Makati City

Makati stands out because it has no window hours. Once coding begins at 7:00 AM, a coded vehicle cannot legally operate on Makati roads until after 7:00 PM.

Coding hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (continuous, 12 hours)
Days: Monday to Friday only
Suspended on: Saturdays, Sundays, and official national holidays (unless a special advisory says otherwise)

Banned plates by day (last digit of plate or conduction sticker):

Day	Banned Plate Endings
Monday	1 and 2
Tuesday	3 and 4
Wednesday	5 and 6
Thursday	7 and 8
Friday	9 and 0

Important notes on timing and jurisdiction:

The Skyway elevated sections above Makati are generally exempt (national toll road rules apply), but entry and exit ramps located in Makati fall under city enforcement during coding hours.
Enforcers are active on major thoroughfares and can ticket vehicles even if you are just passing through or dropping off passengers.
Always check the official My Makati Facebook page or makati.gov.ph for same-day suspensions due to holidays, flooding, or special events.

Fines and Penalties for Traffic Coding Violations in Makati

Under Makati’s current enforcement aligned with the Single Ticketing System, penalties for number coding violations are as follows:

First offense: ₱1,000
Second offense (within 12 months): ₱2,000
Third and subsequent offenses (within 12 months): ₱5,000, plus possible mandatory attendance at a traffic safety seminar

Additional consequences include:

A monthly surcharge (typically around 10%) if the fine remains unpaid beyond the deadline (usually 7–10 days from issuance).
An LTO “alarm” or flag on your vehicle’s plate or your driver’s license. This prevents renewal of your vehicle registration (OR/CR) and driver’s license until the fine and any surcharges are fully paid.
In serious or repeat cases, possible vehicle impoundment or other administrative sanctions.

These amounts reflect Makati’s stricter local application compared with the standard ₱300–₱500 range often cited for other Metro Manila cities under pure MMDA enforcement.

Who Is Exempt from Makati’s Number Coding?

Makati honors several exemptions, but you must be able to prove eligibility on the spot if stopped. Common exemptions include:

Public utility vehicles (PUVs) — jeepneys, buses, taxis, and UV Express with valid franchises
Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) — accredited Grab, InDrive, and similar platforms (with proper documentation)
Electric vehicles (EVs) and certain hybrids — registered under Republic Act No. 11697 (Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act) until at least 2030, usually requiring a valid MMDA exemption sticker
Emergency and government vehicles on official duty (ambulances, fire trucks, police, military, marked government vehicles)
Diplomatic vehicles (red plates)
Vehicles carrying persons with disabilities (PWD) displaying a valid PWD ID and vehicle sticker
Senior citizens holding a valid Makati Blu Card (or equivalent senior citizen card recognized by the city) — exemption applies when the cardholder is the driver or a passenger in the vehicle; present the physical card if flagged
Vehicles in genuine medical emergencies (with supporting documentation if requested)
Vehicles transporting essential or perishable goods (with appropriate permits in some cases)

Motorcycles: While motorcycles are generally exempt from number coding across most of Metro Manila, enforcement reports in Makati City indicate they may be subject to the rules in certain situations. Riders should verify current advisories or proceed with caution on coding days.

Exemptions are not automatic — you must carry proof and be prepared to show it. Misrepresentation can lead to additional violations.

Step-by-Step: What to Do If You Receive a Violation Ticket in Makati

Stay calm and cooperative. Provide your driver’s license, OR/CR, and any exemption documents when requested. Do not argue on the roadside.
Receive your Ordinance Violation Receipt (OVR). The enforcer will issue a ticket detailing the violation (number coding), date, time, location, fine amount, and payment instructions. You will usually be asked to sign or acknowledge receipt.
Note the deadline. Most fines must be settled within 7–10 days to avoid surcharges.
Decide whether to pay or contest. If you believe the ticket was issued in error (wrong plate read, valid exemption not recognized, outside coding hours, etc.), you have the right to contest it.
Contest within the deadline (typically 5 working days). Submit a written request with evidence (photos, exemption documents, witness statements) to the Makati Traffic Adjudication Committee. You can do this at the designated office in Makati City Hall or through available online channels.
Pay promptly if you accept the violation to prevent LTO flags and accumulating surcharges.

How to Pay Your Makati Traffic Coding Fine

Makati offers several convenient payment options:

Online — Through the official Makati Online Portal, GCash, Maya, or partner payment gateways (fastest and recommended).
In-person — Makati City Hall (Finance Department, Building II, 7th Floor), authorized Bayad Centers, SM Bills Payment, or other accredited centers.
Other channels — Landbank Link Biz or similar government-linked platforms.

After payment, keep the official receipt. It may take a few days for the LTO system to update and lift any alarm. If you need to renew your registration or license urgently, bring proof of payment to the LTO or request assistance from Makati’s traffic office.

Common Pitfalls and Real-Life Scenarios

Many ordinary motorists and expats get caught in these situations:

Assuming Makati follows the same window hours as Quezon City or Mandaluyong — it does not.
Driving on Skyway ramps or exits in Makati during coding hours without realizing local jurisdiction applies.
Forgetting that a passenger with a Makati Blu Card can exempt the vehicle only if the card is physically present and shown.
Renting a car as a foreigner or balikbayan — the rental company may pass the fine (plus administrative fees) to you; always check the contract and confirm the plate’s coding day.
Letting the fine sit unpaid — the LTO alarm can block vehicle registration renewal months later, creating bigger problems during LTO visits or when selling the car.
Delivery drivers, service technicians, or office workers in the CBD who repeatedly get ticketed on their plate’s banned day without planning alternative transport (Grab, MRT + walk, carpool, or adjusted work-from-home schedule).

Planning ahead on your plate’s coding day saves both money and stress, especially if you work in or frequently visit Makati’s financial district.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the fine for a number coding violation in Makati?
The standard fine starts at ₱1,000 for the first offense. Repeat offenses within a 12-month period escalate to ₱2,000 or ₱5,000, plus possible mandatory traffic seminars and surcharges for late payment.

What time does number coding start and end in Makati?
Coding runs continuously from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Monday to Friday, with no window hours in between.

Can I drive in Makati on my coding day if I have a senior citizen with a Blu Card as passenger?
Yes, if the senior citizen holds a valid Makati Blu Card (or recognized equivalent) and is physically present in the vehicle. You must be ready to present the card to enforcers.

Are electric vehicles exempt in Makati?
Yes, registered electric vehicles (and qualifying hybrids) are generally exempt under Republic Act No. 11697, provided they display the required exemption documentation or sticker where applicable.

How long do I have to pay a Makati coding ticket?
Pay within 7–10 days of issuance to avoid monthly surcharges. Unpaid fines trigger an LTO alarm that blocks registration and license renewals.

Can I contest a coding ticket in Makati?
Yes. Submit evidence to the Makati Traffic Adjudication Committee within the allowed period (usually 5 working days). Include photos, exemption proofs, or other supporting documents.

Do motorcycles follow number coding in Makati?
Motorcycles are generally exempt across Metro Manila, but Makati enforcement has been reported to include them in some cases. Riders should check current official advisories.

What happens if I ignore the fine?
Unpaid fines accumulate surcharges and place an LTO alarm on your vehicle or license. You will not be able to renew your OR/CR or driver’s license until everything is settled.

Where can I check if coding is suspended today in Makati?
Follow the official My Makati Facebook page or visit makati.gov.ph for real-time traffic advisories, holiday suspensions, and weather-related announcements.

Key Takeaways

Makati enforces number coding from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM with no window hours — stricter than most other Metro Manila cities.
Fines start at ₱1,000 and escalate quickly for repeat offenses within 12 months.
Carry proof of any exemption (especially Makati Blu Card for seniors or EV documentation) every time you drive on a coding day.
Pay fines promptly through official channels to avoid LTO alarms and extra charges.
Plan your commute or use alternatives (public transport, TNVS, carpool) on your plate’s banned day, particularly if you work in or travel through the Makati CBD.
Always verify the latest rules and any suspensions through official Makati channels before heading out.

Understanding these rules helps you avoid unnecessary fines and keeps your driving record clean. Safe travels in Makati.