New Traffic Regulations for Cyclists and Scooter Riders in Spain
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New Traffic Regulations for Cyclists and Scooter Riders in Spain
- A significant update to Spain's General Traffic Regulations, Real Decreto 518/2026, will take effect on October 1, 2026, with the primary goal of enhancing safety for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, and scooter riders.
- Key changes include a mandatory minimum age of 15 for electric scooter users, compulsory helmet use for all cyclists on interurban roads, and stricter overtaking rules for drivers.
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A comprehensive update to Spain’s General Traffic Regulations, Real Decreto 518/2026, is set to be implemented on October 1, 2026. This reform, published on June 26, 2026, aims to improve road safety, particularly for vulnerable users like pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and electric scooter riders.
Among the notable changes, a minimum age of 15 years will be enforced for riding electric scooters (Personal Mobility Vehicles or VMPs), and a certified helmet will become compulsory for all riders. Additionally, a total ban on electric scooters on pavements will be in effect, and insurance has been mandatory nationally since January 2, 2026. Riders will also need to wear a reflective vest at night or in low visibility conditions.
For cyclists, an approved helmet will be mandatory on all interurban roads, removing previous exemptions related to heat or long climbs. The new regulations also clarify that cyclists are permitted to use the full lane to enhance visibility and deter unsafe overtaking.
Drivers will face stricter rules when overtaking cyclists, requiring a lateral distance of at least 1.5 meters. On roads with more than one lane per direction, a complete lane change is now mandatory, and outside built-up areas, drivers must reduce their speed by at least 20 km/h below the posted limit during the maneuver. Non-compliance can result in a 200 euro fine and a deduction of 4 points from a driver’s license.
Motorcyclists and moped riders will also see new requirements, including compulsory protective gloves on interurban roads and closed footwear on all roads. Furthermore, pedestrians will be granted explicit priority over cars in six specific situations, standardizing rules that previously varied by municipality. These comprehensive changes are intended to create a clearer and safer road environment across Spain.