Residents Confront Beijing Traffic Rules as Congestion Continues

Beijing will enforce license plate-based traffic restrictions from March 30 to June 28, 2026, banning vehicles with specific last-digit plate numbers from 7:00 to 20:00 within the 5th Ring Road area.

Daily Impact on Commuters

The city has approximately 6 million vehicles among 22 million residents. Weekday congestion averages 100 minutes with a traffic index of 5.0 in the first half of the year. Rush hours occur daily from 6:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., during which subway travel is the most time-saving option due to frequent gridlock. Residents describe adjusting departure times and routes around these windows to reach workplaces and appointments inside the restricted zone.

Subway Network as Primary Alternative

Beijing operates the world's largest subway network with 29 lines, including airport express and tram lines, serving as the primary transportation mode during peak congestion. Many commuters report relying on these lines when vehicle access is limited or when surface roads slow to a crawl during the stated rush periods.

Broader Management Measures

The 2025 Comprehensive Traffic Management Action Plan includes 32 tasks such as opening new subway segments on Line 17 and Line 6, adding 35,000 downtown parking spaces, and building 11.36 km of non-motorized vehicle lanes. These steps address capacity inside the same areas covered by the upcoming restrictions.

Travelers inside the 5th Ring Road can check current plate rules and subway schedules before setting out, especially during the March to June enforcement window and the daily rush periods. The subway remains the documented option when road delays extend beyond typical times.