DGT speed cameras: how to legally find them

Where are Spain’s speed camera locations? There is a perfectly lawful, reliable way to check their locations before you set off – no gadgets, no grey areas, and no risk of fines for using banned kit.

Spain’s speed camera system explained

Spain has three main types: Fixed, Average-Speed (tramo), and Mobile. All three are designed to enforce speed limits. If you go over the limit, you will be penalized with points or a fine.

• Fixed cameras are placed in known spots and record you as you go by.
• The average-speed camera measures the time between two points to calculate your speed.
• Mobile cameras are the wild cards – mounted in patrol cars, on tripods or vans, and moved around to target problem areas.

In Spain, it is illegal to use radar detectors or inhibitors. Expect fines ranging from €200 up to €6,000 (and the loss of licence points) if you’re caught. Apps and sat-navs which display information that is publicly available are acceptable; however, devices that jam or detect signals are not.

The only foolproof and legal way to do it: Use DGT’s own map and list

Spain’s traffic authority DGT treats the locations of their fixed and average-speed speed cameras as public. As part of its road-safety policy—deterrence, not ambush—it publishes:

• Searchable list of fixed cameras and tramos by province and road.
• The map shows the location of each network node.

This is not a rumour machine; it’s an official source from which the navigation apps draw. These locations are also available in most GPS devices and popular traffic apps. They all mirror the same database.

Why DGT publishes these images: Fixed and tramo cameras have been installed in areas where data shows high collision rates or constant speeding. It is intended to encourage drivers to reduce their speed in areas that are most important.

What is on the DGT list?  What it leaves Out

The official database is a collection of static cameras, average-speed systems (tramo), and other devices installed by DGTs on state-managed highways. The database does not include all devices operated by local authorities or town halls, so municipal cameras will not be included. And you won’t find mobile units listed either — they’re redeployed regularly, by design.

What you can and can’t predict about the mobile mystery

Mobile cameras can be deployed in special operations or in areas with high risk driving, such as during heavy traffic, road-work zones or in times of heavy congestion. The cameras may be placed in plain sight, in unmarked cars or on the verge of the road with a clear vision down.

It is not required by law to publish a schedule of these checks. You can defend yourself by staying at or below posted limits, especially when they drop suddenly as you approach towns, tunnels junctions or average speed corridors.

Tips to help you stay on the good side of the law

• Plan using the official information. Check the DGT list and map before you embark on a trip. It only takes two minutes to set expectations.
• Use your GPS (legally) to help you. Many modern systems warn about known camera locations. That’s allowed.
• Tramo signs are clearly marked. The average-speed zone is clearly marked both at the start of the journey and at the gantry.
• Respect local rules The big cities have separate cameras to enforce their own laws (and low emission zones). You should check municipal advice if you plan to drive into urban centres.
• Do not buy gadgets with a bad reputation. Any gadget that can detect radar signals, or scramble them up will cost you more in the long run than saving a few minutes.

If you want to know where DGT cameras are, don’t gamble—go official. Spain will tell you where the fixed and average-speed cameras are, and many reputable navigation apps show that. The point is that mobile units are deliberately unpredictable. If you push your car to its limits, you’ll never have to worry what might be around the next bend.

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