Spain Implements Stricter Motorcycle Safety Regulations and Mandatory Gear Requirements
Spain’s DGT has introduced stricter motorcycle safety regulations, including mandatory certified helmets, required protective gear like gloves and closed-toe shoes, and new rules allowing limited shoulder use during traffic congestion.
Road safety for motorcyclists is undergoing major changes. According to recent updates from Spain’s Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) and the Royal Automobile Club (RACE), authorities are stepping up enforcement regarding protective gear. Officials have clarified that simply wearing a helmet is not enough; it must carry the correct technical certification to be legal.
The current penalties are strict: using a non-certified helmet, wearing one incorrectly, or not wearing one at all will result in a 200-euro fine and the loss of 4 license points. These rules apply to both drivers and passengers, aiming to reduce the high accident rates among motorcyclists, who remain among the most vulnerable road users. To ensure your helmet is compliant, check for the official homologation label inside, which confirms the gear has passed required safety tests.
Further regulatory changes take effect on October 1st. Under the updated General Traffic Regulations, protective gloves will become mandatory on interurban roads, and closed-toe footwear will be required on all road types for both drivers and passengers.
These updates also introduce new traffic management rules. Motorcycles will be allowed to use the right shoulder during traffic jams, provided specific signage permits it and the rider does not exceed 30 km/h. With these adjustments, authorities aim to improve rider safety while helping traffic flow more efficiently in both urban and interurban areas.