Metro Manila Coding Hours 2026 - Window Hours & Number Coding

If you drive in Metro Manila, knowing the coding hours in Manila can help you avoid getting caught during restricted hours. The number coding scheme, also called the Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP), limits certain vehicles from using the roads at specific times from Monday to Friday. The usual number coding hours are 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM in the morning and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the evening.

Your coding day depends on the last digit of your vehicle’s plate number. During the window hours, from 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM, coded vehicles can travel normally. However, Makati City follows a different rule, with coding restrictions from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM and no window hours.

The program was introduced by the MMDA in 1995 to help reduce traffic congestion throughout Metro Manila, especially on busy roads such as EDSA. Although the standard schedule is generally followed throughout the region, some cities and LGUs may have their own implementation details. However, Quezon City confirmed the schedule from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM in March.

Quick Answer

The Metro Manila number coding schedule runs from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Monday to Friday.

Important: A temporary suspension or local traffic rule can change the normal schedule for a specific date or road. Confirm the latest official MMDA or city announcement before driving.

Is There Number Coding Today in Metro Manila?

If today is a regular Monday to Friday in Metro Manila, number coding is generally in effect during the scheduled hours. The morning coding hours are 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM, while the evening restriction runs from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Coding is suspended on weekends and Philippine public holidays, unless a specific announcement says otherwise.

So, before heading out for a government office, an important meeting, or an NBI appointment, it is important to verify the coding schedule first. A quick confirmation can help you to avoid unnecessary delays or the risk of missing an appointment because of traffic.

Plate Number Coding Schedule — Day-Wise MMDA Rules

In Metro Manila, your number coding day depends on the last digit of your vehicle’s plate number. The rule is simple: each weekday has two assigned plate digits. If your plate ends with one of those digits, you cannot drive your vehicle during the regular coding periods on that day.

These rules are part of the Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP) and generally apply to private vehicles on covered major roads in Metro Manila. Before you drive, simply check the last digit of your plate number, match it with the day above, and then check whether your travel time falls within the coding hours.

What are the Number Coding Hours in Metro Manila?

Number coding hours in Metro Manila are the specific times when private vehicles with a coded plate number are restricted from using covered roads. The scheme runs from Monday to Friday and is based on the last digit of the vehicle’s plate number. The usual coding hours are 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM in the morning and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the evening.

Coding Hours When You Cannot Drive

• 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM
• 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

For example, if your plate ends at 5 or 6, Wednesday is your coding day. During the two restricted periods, you should avoid roads where number coding is enforced.

Do Coding Hours Apply at Night?

No. Regular number coding does not continue after 8:00 PM. Under the standard schedule, the evening coding period ends at 8:00 PM. After that, coded vehicles can generally travel again until the next morning's restriction begins.

The same applies to the early morning period before 7:00 AM, although drivers should still check for any separate road or local traffic restrictions.

What are the Number Coding Window Hours?

Window hours in Metro Manila are the free periods when vehicles can travel even if their plate number is scheduled for coding that day. Before 7:00 AM, all plates can travel. The morning coding period runs from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM, so vehicles with the coded plate number cannot use covered roads during this time.

Once the morning restriction ends, the main window hours are 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM, when all plates can travel. The evening coding period then starts from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, followed by another unrestricted period after 8:00 PM.

For a quick look at the daily schedule:

• Before 7:00 AM: All plates can travel
• 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM: Morning coding hours
• 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM: Window hours; all plates can travel
• 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM: Evening coding hours
• After 8:00 PM: All plates can travel

The same 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM window period is generally followed in Alabang, including areas such as Alabang Highway and Zapote Road. These window hours are part of the UVVRP number coding schedule and are especially useful when planning a trip on your vehicle’s coding day.

Can I Drive If My Car Is Coding?

Yes, you can still drive your car on its coding day, but you need to avoid roads covered by the scheme during the restricted hours.

For most of Metro Manila, that means you have these three periods:

• Before 7:00 AM
• 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM
• After 8:00 PM

For example, if your plate ends at 5, Wednesday is your coding day. You could plan your trip during the midday window instead of driving during the morning or evening restriction.

Which Vehicles Are Exempt From Number Coding?

Not every vehicle follows the Metro Manila number coding restriction. Several vehicle types are exempt because they provide public transport, emergency services, government services, or carry essential goods.

List of vehicles that are exempted from the coding scheme are:

• Motorcycles
• Tricycles
• Garbage trucks
• Marked Government vehicles
• Petrol vehicles
• Marked Media vehicles
• Fire trucks
• Public transport
• TNVS
• Doctors with valid PRC ID
• Qualifying electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles (HEVs), subject to the applicable registration and classification requirements
• Ambulances
• Health workers
• Certain vehicles carrying essential goods or fuel when covered by a current MMDA exemption or resolution

Electric vehicles also have a separate exemption under the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (RA 11697). However, the rules for electric, hybrid, and mild-hybrid vehicles are not necessarily the same, so check the vehicle's official classification and current requirements before relying on an exemption.

Number Coding Exemptions by Vehicle Type

Keep in mind that an exemption does not always apply automatically just because of the vehicle type. Some categories require a valid sticker, ID, vehicle marking, registration, or proof of official duty. So, if your vehicle falls into one of these categories, check the specific exemption requirements before travelling during number coding hours.

Are Electric and Hybrid Vehicles Exempt From Number Coding?

Electric Vehicles (EVs), Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs), and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) may be covered by the number coding exemption under the EVIDA framework, but motorists should confirm the vehicle's official classification and applicable requirements before relying on the exemption. Under the EVIDA Law (RA 11697), registered electric vehicles are exempt from number coding until April 15, 2030, subject to the applicable requirements.

Hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles may also be exempt when they have the required MMDA exemption sticker. However, Mild hybrid vehicles should not automatically be treated as exempt; motorists should verify the vehicle's official classification and current eligibility before relying on an exemption. So, if you drive an EV, HEV, or PHEV, it is important to check the vehicle’s classification and exemption requirements before assuming you can drive during coding hours.

Are Mild Hybrid Vehicles Exempt From Number Coding?

A mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) is different from a fully electric vehicle. Its electric motor mainly assists the petrol or diesel engine rather than powering the vehicle on its own.

Because of this, you should not assume that an MHEV gets the same number coding exemption as an EV. Check the official classification of your vehicle and the latest exemption requirements before driving during restricted hours.

Who Can Apply for a Number Coding Exemption?

Medical doctors may qualify for a number coding exemption when they meet the applicable requirements. Apart from doctors, there are also some limited cases where a person or vehicle can apply for exemption, depending on the situation and supporting documents.

Possible exemption cases can include categories recognized under applicable MMDA rules or special approvals, but eligibility and supporting documents depend on the specific case:

• Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) with a valid disability certificate or PWD documentation
• Senior citizens in certain cases, with their own vehicle and a valid Blu Card
• People with special medical conditions who can provide valid supporting documents
• School-owned buses and vans used for student transportation
• Company-owned shuttle vehicles
• Private or unmarked media vehicles in qualifying cases

Keep in mind that these exemptions are not automatically granted to everyone in these categories. Some applicants may need to submit documents or obtain approval before they can use the vehicle during number coding hours. It is better to confirm the specific requirements for your case before travelling during restricted hours.

How to Apply for Number Coding Exemption?

For cases where an individual exemption application or special approval is required, the applicant may need to submit a formal request to the MMDA or the appropriate traffic authority, together with documents supporting the request. Keep the reason clear and provide complete details about the vehicle. You should also attach documents that support your request, along with copies of the vehicle’s Official Receipt (OR) and Certificate of Registration (CR). Approval depends on the reason for the request and the documents you submit, so make sure everything is complete.

Before submitting your request, it helps to prepare the following:

• A formal request letter addressed to the MMDA Chairman
• A clear explanation of the reason for requesting exemption
• Complete vehicle details
• Relevant supporting documents for your reason
• Copies of the vehicle’s OR and CR
• Appointment or transaction proof, if the exemption is related to a government appointment or official transaction

If you are applying because you need to attend a government transaction, including proof of your scheduled appointment can make your request easier to understand. However, submitting the documents does not automatically guarantee approval; the MMDA will consider the reason and supporting proof before granting the exemption.

EDSA Odd-Even Scheme Is It Different from Number Coding?

The EDSA odd-even scheme was a separate traffic plan proposed by the MMDA for EDSA during the planned rehabilitation project. Under the proposed system, vehicles would have been restricted based on whether the last digit of their plate number was odd or even. It should not be confused with the regular UVVRP number coding scheme. Before travelling on EDSA, check the latest MMDA traffic advisory for any current rehabilitation or traffic-management measure.

This is important because the proposed EDSA odd-even scheme should not be confused with the regular UVVRP number coding scheme. The standard number coding rules continue to apply on EDSA, just as they do on other roads covered by the scheme. If you are planning to drive on EDSA, check the latest MMDA traffic advisory before your trip, especially if there are new rehabilitation or traffic-management plans.

7 Smart Tips to Drive Around Number Coding Without a Fine

Tip 1: Know Your Coding Day

The easiest way to avoid a number coding fine is to know your vehicle’s coding day. The schedule is based on the last digit of your plate number: Monday, 1 and 2, Tuesday, 3 and 4, Wednesday, 5 and 6, Thursday, 7 and 8, and Friday, 9 and 0. Save your coding day in your phone calendar with a weekly reminder so you do not forget it.

Tip 2: Use the Window Hours

If your vehicle is coded for the day, plan non-urgent trips during the 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM window hours. This gives you a longer period to travel between the morning and evening coding sessions instead of driving during restricted hours.

Tip 3: Travel Before 7 AM or After 8 PM

You can also plan your trip outside the standard coding periods. Before 7:00 AM and after 8:00 PM, the regular Metro Manila number coding restrictions are no longer in effect. This can be useful if you have an early appointment or need to travel in the evening.

Tip 4: Check for Coding Suspensions

Do not assume that the normal schedule always applies. Number coding may be suspended on public holidays, while the MMDA can also announce temporary suspensions for events, severe weather, or other special situations. Verify the latest MMDA announcement before leaving, especially when there is a major event or weather disturbance.

Tip 5: Check Your Route Before Driving

Your route can make a difference, so check the coding rules for the roads you plan to use. Major expressways such as SLEX, NLEX, Skyway, and NAIAX have different traffic rules from roads covered by the regular Metro Manila coding scheme. If your route includes these roads, confirm the latest rules before starting your trip.

Tip 6: Check City-Specific Rules

Number coding rules can vary between cities and areas. Places such as BGC, Marikina, and Muntinlupa may have local traffic rules or road-specific restrictions that differ from the standard Metro Manila schedule. If you are travelling through a different city, check the local rules instead of relying only on the general coding schedule.

Tip 7: Check if Your Vehicle Qualifies for an Exemption

If you drive a registered electric vehicle (EV), hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), or plug-in hybrid (PHEV), check whether your vehicle qualifies for an applicable number coding exemption. Under the EVIDA Law, eligible electric vehicles may be exempt from coding, while mild hybrid vehicles (MHEVs) are not included in the same exemption. Always check the requirements for your specific vehicle before relying on an exemption.

Following these simple steps can make number coding much easier to manage. Know your coding day, use the window and free hours, check temporary suspensions, confirm your route and city rules, and use an exemption if your vehicle qualifies.

Which Roads Are Covered by Number Coding in Metro Manila?

The Metro Manila number coding scheme mainly applies to major roads covered by the MMDA and participating local traffic authorities. The exact implementation can still depend on the city, road section, and current traffic rules.

Some of the major roads commonly associated with the number coding scheme include:

• EDSA
• C-5 Road
• C-6
• Roxas Boulevard
• Quezon Avenue
• Taft Avenue
• Shaw Boulevard
• Marcos Highway
• Recto Avenue
• Ortigas Avenue
• Quirino Avenue
• Araneta Avenue
• Rizal Avenue
• Bonifacio Avenue
• Magsaysay Boulevard
• Aurora Boulevard
• Del Pan Road

For C-5 Road, the regular coding schedule generally follows the standard Metro Manila hours, including the 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM window period between the morning and evening restrictions. On the other hand, roads such as SLEX and Skyway have their own traffic regulations, so you should not assume that the regular UVVRP rules apply in exactly the same way there.

If your trip involves several roads or different cities, check the route before leaving. A road may have different rules from the next road, and local traffic authorities can also impose additional restrictions. This is especially important when using expressways, city roads, or routes that cross different LGU jurisdictions.

Which Major Roads Have Number Coding?

The roads most commonly associated with the Metro Manila coding scheme include EDSA, C-5, Roxas Boulevard, Quezon Avenue, Taft Avenue, Ortigas Avenue, and Shaw Boulevard.

For example, if your coded vehicle needs to travel across EDSA during restricted hours, the fact that another nearby road has different traffic rules does not automatically make the entire route coding-free.

Always check the exact road section and connecting roads before choosing an alternative route.

Which Roads Are Exempt From Number Coding?

The Metro Manila number coding scheme generally does not apply to major tollways and expressways, although specific rules can vary depending on the road and traffic authority. Some roads around the airport are also exempt from regular coding restrictions, including parts of Ninoy Aquino Avenue, Sales Road, Domestic Road, and MIA Road.

Some commonly listed exempt roads and areas include:

• NLEX
• SLEX
• Skyway Stages 1, 2 and 3
• NAIAX
• CAVITEX
• CALAX
• SCTEX
• TPLEX
• MCX
• STAR Tollway
• NLEX Connector Road
• Harbor Link
• Parts of Gil Puyat Avenue
• Parts of Ninoy Aquino Avenue
• Sales Road
• Domestic Road
• MIA Road
• BGC interior roads
• Private roads and roads inside gated communities

So, if your route uses an expressway, tollway, private road, or an interior road in a specific area, do not assume that the regular Metro Manila coding schedule applies there. Check the rules for the exact road and route you plan to use, especially when your trip passes through different cities or connects a coding-covered road with an exempt route.

Are Expressways Exempt From Number Coding?

Generally, major tollways and expressways such as NLEX, SLEX, Skyway, NAIAX, CAVITEX, and CALAX are outside the standard Metro Manila number coding scheme.

However, traffic rules can apply differently to connecting roads and specific sections.

So, do not assume that your whole trip is coding-free just because part of the route uses an expressway. Check the road section and connecting roads before driving on your coding day.

City-Wise Number Coding Hours in Metro Manila

The city wise number coding schedule is used across many Metro Manila roads, but local rules can differ from one city to another. The road you are using matters just as much as the city where you are driving.

Which Cities Follow Different Coding Rules?

Most areas use the regular 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM schedule where the MMDA scheme applies. However, a few cities and areas need a closer look before you rely on the standard window hours.

Makati City

Makati is the main exception to remember. Its local number coding restriction can run from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, meaning there is no usual 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM window.

If your vehicle is coded and your route enters Makati, do not assume that you can drive during the normal Metro Manila window hours.

Muntinlupa

Muntinlupa requires a road-by-road check rather than applying one rule to every street in the city. Check the exact road on your route before driving during coding hours.

Taguig and BGC

Taguig also needs a route check. BGC interior roads and major roads can have different traffic arrangements, so do not assume that the standard Metro Manila rule applies everywhere.

Marikina

Marikina can also have different arrangements on local and major roads. If your route includes Marikina, check the specific road rather than relying only on the standard Metro Manila timetable.

If you regularly drive in one city, check that city's current traffic rules and covered roads before planning your trip around the standard coding schedule.

Latest Metro Manila Number Coding Updates in 2026

MMDA also temporarily suspended number coding on August 14, 2026, due to the effects of the southwest monsoon (Habagat) and continuous rainfall. During Holy Week, the scheme was suspended from 12 noon on April 1 through April 3, 2026, with regular enforcement resuming on April 6. MMDA also deployed 2,476 personnel across major roads, transport terminals, and other key areas during the Holy Week traffic operation.

Number coding was also suspended on April 9, 2026, for Araw ng Kagitingan, and on May 1, 2026, for Labor Day. The scheme was suspended again on May 27, 2026, for Eid'l Adha. These examples show why motorists should check the latest MMDA advisory for the exact date of travel rather than relying only on the normal weekday schedule.

When Is Number Coding Suspended?

Metro Manila number coding is normally not enforced on weekends and holidays. Regular and special non-working holidays are generally excluded from the UVVRP schedule, while MMDA can also announce additional suspensions for specific dates or situations. In 2026, for example, MMDA suspended coding during Holy Week, on Araw ng Kagitingan, on Labor Day, and on Eid'l Adha.

Check the latest MMDA advisory for any additional temporary suspension.

For typhoons, calamities, major events, or other special situations, do not assume that coding has been lifted. Check the latest MMDA advisory before travelling. Holiday suspensions can also apply automatically or through a specific MMDA announcement, as shown by the 2026 suspensions listed above.

How to Check if Coding Is Suspended Today?

Before heading out, it is always better to check the latest coding Update, especially if your vehicle is scheduled for coding that day. You can use these sources:

• MMDA Traffic Facebook page: Follow @MMDATraffic for coding suspension notices, traffic advisories, and same-day updates.
• MMDA X (Twitter): Follow @MMDA for updates related to typhoons, special events, and other traffic Updates.
• MMDA Hotline 136: Call 136 if you want to confirm whether coding is active or suspended on a particular day.
• Waze or Google Maps: These apps can help with live traffic and route planning, but use official MMDA Notification to confirm an actual coding suspension.
• Quezon City traffic office: If you are travelling in Quezon City, check the QC Traffic and Transport Management Department for city-specific coding rules or suspension notices.
• MMDA Facebook Messenger: You can also contact MMDA through its official Facebook page if you need clarification about coding updates.

The safest option is to check an official MMDA update before leaving home. If there is no suspension announcement, follow the regular number coding schedule for your vehicle and route.

Number Coding Violation Fine and Penalty 2026

If you drive a coded vehicle on a road covered by number coding during the restricted hours, you can be issued a traffic violation ticket. The applicable penalty can depend on the issuing authority and the traffic rules in force at the time.

For example, Valenzuela City's 2026 Citizen's Charter lists a ₱500 penalty for the number coding scheme. Check your actual violation notice and the relevant MMDA or LGU rules for the exact amount that applies to your case.

For a coding ticket, the payment period and process depend on the authority that issued the violation. If the ticket was issued by an LGU instead of MMDA, the applicable penalty and payment process may follow that city's rules or the Single Ticketing System. Always check the details written on your violation ticket before relying on a specific fine amount.

How to Check a Number Coding Violation

If you want to check a number coding violation, you can use the official MMDA MayHuliKa portal to check the online violation. Follow this process to check:

1. Visit the MayHuliKa portal and open the violation checking service.
2. Enter your vehicle details, such as your plate number, conduction sticker number, or MV File Number.
3. If you are using the MV File Number, you can find it on your vehicle’s Official Receipt (OR) or Certificate of Registration (CR).
4. After entering the required details, click “Check” to search for available violation records.
5. If a record is available, the portal can show details such as the violation date, time, and location.

This gives you a quick way to check whether your vehicle has a recorded number coding violation and view the available details online.

How to Pay a Number Coding Fine

Once you confirm the violation, use an official payment channel listed by MMDA or the authority that issued the ticket. Available payment options can include:

• GCash
• Maya
• GrabPay
• LandBank Link.BizPortal
• Bayad Center
• SM Bills Payment
• MMDA Traffic Management Division offices
• MMDA Head Office
• MMDA Satellite Offices

Payment options can change, so check your violation notice or the official MMDA instructions before making a payment. Keep your receipt or transaction reference after payment as proof.

Important: Do not pay a traffic fine through a personal account or an unofficial website.

What Happens If You Don't Pay a Number Coding Fine?

Do not leave a confirmed traffic violation unpaid. Depending on the issuing authority and current enforcement rules, an unpaid violation may affect later vehicle or licensing transactions.

If you believe the ticket was issued incorrectly, contact the authority and follow its dispute process rather than simply ignoring the violation.

Does Number Coding Apply Outside Metro Manila?

Yes. Some cities outside Metro Manila have their own number coding schemes to control traffic during busy hours.

These local rules are separate from the Metro Manila UVVRP. The city or municipality may set its own coding days, restricted hours, covered roads, exemptions, and suspension dates.

Some examples include:

If you are traveling outside Metro Manila, check the local government's current traffic advisory instead of using the Metro Manila schedule. The rules may not be the same even when the city uses a similar number coding system.

Can Number Coding Hours Change?

Yes. Coding hours and other traffic rules can change depending on the city, road, or date.

The MMDA and local government units (LGUs) may change:

• Coding hours
• Window hours
• Coding days
• Roads covered
• Exemptions
• Temporary suspension dates

Changes may be made because of public holidays, special events, emergencies, severe weather, or other traffic operations. This is why the schedule you normally follow may not apply on a particular day. Before travelling, check the latest MMDA or local government notification for your route.

Conclusion

Metro Manila number coding is easier to follow when you know your plate's last digit, coding day, restricted hours, and route. The standard restriction runs from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with the usual window period from 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM. However, cities such as Makati can have different local rules, while areas outside Metro Manila may use their own coding schedules.

Before travelling, check the latest MMDA or local government traffic advisory. This is especially important when using roads across different cities or travelling on a holiday, during severe weather, or around a major event.