A sweeping update to Spain’s traffic regulations will introduce €200 fines for e-scooter riders, cyclists and motorcyclists who break new safety rules. Most changes take effect in October 2026, with some delayed until 2027.
Spain’s government has approved a major overhaul of the Reglamento General de Circulación, introducing a wave of new obligations and penalties for users of electric scooters, bicycles, motorcycles, professional drivers and motorhomes. The changes, announced after a recent Council of Ministers meeting, are designed to improve road safety for the most vulnerable users and will see most measures enforced from October 1, 2026, with a handful postponed to 2027.
Stricter Rules for E-Scooters
One of the most significant updates targets personal mobility vehicles, especially electric scooters. Under the new rules, riders must be at least 15 years old to operate an e-scooter. Helmets will become mandatory for all users, and reflective vests must be worn at night or in poor visibility. For those using scooters for work, such as delivery riders, both helmet and vest will be required at all times.
Additionally, e-scooters will need to have their lights on while in use, though this specific requirement will not be enforced until October 2027. Outside urban areas, scooters will only be allowed on segregated lanes like cycle paths, provided local regulations permit it. Any breach of these obligations will be classified as a serious offence, carrying a €200 fine.
New Demands for Cyclists and Motorcyclists
Cyclists face tighter safety requirements as well. The reform eliminates previous exemptions for helmet use on interurban roads, making helmets compulsory for all cyclists outside city limits. Professional cyclists will also have to wear both a helmet and a reflective vest at all times, regardless of location.
Within cities, cyclists are encouraged to ride in the center of their lane to increase visibility. Municipalities may also allow two-way cycling on single-lane streets limited to 30 km/h or less, but only where specific signage is present.
Motorcyclists will be required to wear protective gloves on interurban roads and closed footwear on all roads. The new rules also permit motorcycles to use the right-hand shoulder during traffic jams, provided they do not exceed 30 km/h and only on marked stretches. From October 2027, helmets for mopeds must be fully homologated, not just certified, and the technical standards for gloves will be set by a future ministerial order.
Changes for Drivers, Taxis and Motorhomes
Drivers overtaking cyclists on interurban roads will have to slow down by at least 20 km/h below the speed limit and, where possible, change lanes completely, maintaining a minimum lateral distance of 1.5 meters. In urban areas, motor vehicles must keep at least five meters behind cyclists in the same lane.
The reform also introduces a so-called emergency lane: during traffic jams, vehicles must move aside to create a central corridor for police, ambulances and other emergency services.
Exemptions from seatbelt use for taxi drivers, goods vehicle drivers and driving instructors are abolished; they must now wear seatbelts at all times. Only certain ambulance personnel in urgent situations remain exempt.
Motorhomes are now subject to clearer parking rules: they cannot extend any part beyond the vehicle’s perimeter, must rest solely on their tires, and are prohibited from discharging fluids from the living area.
Implementation Timeline and Context
According to the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), most of these new regulations will come into force on October 1, 2026. However, requirements for e-scooter lighting, moped helmet homologation and technical standards for gloves will be delayed until October 2027 or until further ministerial clarification.
These changes reflect a broader push to align Spain’s road safety standards with evolving urban mobility trends and to address the growing presence of e-scooters and bicycles in daily transport. As the new rules approach, both residents and visitors should pay close attention to ensure compliance and avoid costly penalties.
