Spain’s new traffic rules for 2026 – What you should know as a motorist, cyclist and pedestrian

The way people travel around Spain will be drastically changed in the near future. The General Directorate of Traffic has confirmed that a new set of road safety regulations will be implemented on January 2, 2026. This includes drivers, cyclists and scooter users.

These changes have been planned for many years, and they are part of an overall effort to reduce traffic accidents in urban areas.

DGT declares that its top priority is protecting road users who are most vulnerable. This includes people who use two wheels to travel, as well as those who work in traffic for long hours. It also includes pedestrians. While some of the new rules are straightforward, others may take some getting used to—especially for delivery drivers and electric scooter riders who have become part of Spain’s everyday street life.

Seatbelts become non-negotiable to everyone

Perhaps the most symbolic change – and the one that will affect the greatest number of professionals – is the end of the seatbelt exemption for taxi drivers, delivery drivers and driving instructors when operating in city traffic.

Due to their frequent stops and close interaction with clients and customers, these groups could drive without wearing a seatbelt. From early 2026 onwards, seatbelts are mandatory for everyone regardless of their journey or occupation.

If you don’t buckle up, it will mean:

• €200 fine
• Loss of 4 points on your driving licence

The exceptions are few, and include vehicles designated as emergency vehicles, or manoeuvres that require reversing.

DGT has a consistent message: If seatbelts are proven to save lives, then all people, including those behind the wheel, should wear them.

Delivery riders and scooters have better visibility

Electric scooters – now a familiar sight in cities across Spain—are under particular scrutiny. Electric scooters will be required to use lights 24/7, even in daylight, starting 2026. Scooter users are difficult to see in traffic and better visibility should reduce collisions.

Da not all scooters on the market today have a lighting system that can meet this requirement, DGT has given users until 2027 for full adaptation. As manufacturers have more time to update design, we could see new scooters that meet the requirements.

A final important change is that electric scooters won’t be allowed in the high-occupancy vehicle (VAO) lanes. The DGT made it clear that these lanes were designed to promote shared travel, reduce congestion and encourage sharing. Anyone found violating this rule will risk a €200 fine.

Meanwhile, delivery workers – those zig-zagging through traffic to get meals, groceries or parcels delivered on time – will have to wear high-visibility reflective vests, whether they use scooters, bicycles or motorbikes. The rule is applicable both at night and during the day, especially because many deliveries are now made after dark.

This measure is seen by many as a direct reaction to the growth of the gig economy, in which large numbers of workers are on the street at all times.

New Safety Standards for Motorcyclists & Roadside Situations

In 2026, motorcycles will have to comply with new clothing regulations. By 2026, motorcycle riders will also have to comply with new clothing requirements.

• Protective gloves
• Closed-toe footwear (so, no flip-flops or sandals in the summer)
• Helmets that are properly secured

It is clear that the long-standing medical exemption from wearing a headgear has also disappeared. DGTPosition: Protective gear should be the norm, not an exception.

Drivers will also need to adjust their behavior when they pass a vehicle which has been in an accident or is broken down. The new rule:

• Reduce your speed to at least 20 km/h under the limit
• Maintaining a minimum distance of 1.5 metres on the side

This space must be maintained by drivers if they need to. It is important to protect stranded drivers as well as roadside assistance teams who often work under dangerous conditions.

A better deal for pedestrians

Local councils have two years to implement new rules that will prevent cars from parking at pedestrian crossings. This will improve visibility. The priority for school groups, military units, and processions will also automatically be extended when crossing.

Spain’s streets are changing – and these rules are about reshaping everyday behaviour so that roads become safer, calmer and more predictable for everyone who uses them. The countdown has begun to 2026.