This everyday habit in your car could cost you €200 in Spain

Do you think it’s harmless to use the sun visor as a mirror for your hair when there is a red traffic light? You may want to reconsider. Spain’s traffic authorities have made it clear: some common in-car habits could cost you up to €200 — and that includes using the visor for anything other than blocking the sun while driving.

How using your car’s sun visor in Spain could get you a €200 fine

The General Directorate of Traffic in Spain (DGT), has reminded motorists that their car’s visor is not a vanity station. If you’re caught applying makeup, checking your phone, eating, or even reading while stopped at a red light — especially if you use the mirror on your sun visor — you could be hit with a fine of up to €200, and possibly even lose licence points in serious cases.

It doesn’t even have to be while driving. The Spanish traffic code considers your actions to be a violation even if you are temporarily stopped.

The DGT encourages drivers to pull over safely if they need to do anything that distracts from driving — whether it’s adjusting the GPS, checking the glovebox, or finishing your makeup. What may seem like a simple task that takes only a few seconds could become a dangerous situation.

Driving fines: everyday car habits that can cost drivers and passengers.

Not just sun visors. Spanish traffic laws cover a wide range of behaviours that many drivers — and passengers — don’t realise can lead to fines.

• Seatbelt Rules: All passengers, whether they are drivers or not, have to wear their seatbelts at all times. If a passenger is caught without one, they’ll be fined €200 — not the driver or the car’s owner.
• Tossing cigarettes through the window is dangerous and illegal. If a driver does it, they face a €500 fine and lose 6 licence points. If it’s a passenger, they still get fined €500.
• Feet on the dashboard is not only dangerous, but also punishable in case of accident. If a passenger is caught in this position, the driver will pay between €80 and €100.
• Loose items in the car: Bags, boxes or objects not secured inside the vehicle can lead to a €200 fine under Article 14 of the General Traffic Regulations.

Driving in Spain: Unexpected driving behaviors that can lead to fines

Spain’s traffic code is strict — and even seemingly harmless things can be considered a risk.

• Driving barefoot has no ban but it is argued that the foot control is reduced. Expect a fine if the driving is unsafe.
• Driving with a hat or cap on: It’s not illegal, but any item that interferes with your vision can be fined.
• Smoking while driving: It’s not prohibited by default. However, if you are fined for it, a Guardia Civil official may believe that you are distracted or losing control.

Article 3 of General Traffic Regulations is at the core of all of this. It states that drivers should act with caution and care to avoid harming themselves, passengers or other road users.

Articles 17 and 18 go even further — reminding drivers they must always maintain full control over the vehicle and remain in a safe, appropriate position behind the wheel.

Next time you are tempted to fix up your hair, smoke a cigarette or look through your bag as you wait at a traffic light, stop and think. In Spain, even a moment of distraction can come with a hefty price tag — and it’s always better to pull over than pay up.

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