From 1 January 2026, Spain will fully implement several long-announced traffic measures. The changes include the exclusive use of V16 warning beacons, stricter seatbelt rules, and a range of other updates aimed at improving road safety.
No more seatbelt exemptions
Seatbelts remain one of the most effective safety features in any vehicle. The law already requires all occupants to wear them on both urban and interurban roads, and they have saved countless lives over the years.
Until now, however, the rules allowed a handful of very specific exemptions in city driving. Certain professional drivers, including taxi drivers, delivery drivers and driving instructors, could legally drive without a seatbelt in urban areas while working.
From 1 January 2026, everyone in cities must wear a seatbelt without exception. Professional drivers will follow the same rules as all other motorists, bringing long-standing urban exemptions to an end.
Spain’s 2026 new traffic measures
Seatbelt rules form just part of a wider package of reforms. The Spanish Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) has confirmed several other important changes that will take effect in 2026.
One reform will affect how drivers obtain their licences. Authorities will update the licensing process, particularly the theory test and the way candidates prepare for it. These changes aim to modernise the system and reflect new driving realities.
Another well-known measure concerns emergency signalling. From 2026, drivers must use the V16 emergency beacon instead of traditional warning triangles. The beacon must connect to the DGT 3.0 system, allowing vehicles involved in breakdowns or accidents to transmit their location in real time.
Traffic jams and roadside safety
Drivers will also face new legal duties in traffic jams on motorways and dual carriageways. When emergency vehicles approach, motorists must create a central emergency corridor. Drivers in the right-hand lane must move as far right as possible, while those in the left-hand lane must move left.
Although authorities have recommended this behaviour for years, the law will formally require it from 2026. Officials expect to introduce fines for non-compliance, although they have yet to confirm the exact penalties.
In addition, when drivers pass a stationary vehicle that partially blocks a lane, they must reduce their speed by at least 20 km/h below the speed limit and maintain a lateral distance of 1.5 metres.
Low Emission Zones finally enforced
Finally, 2026 will bring full enforcement of Low Emission Zones (LEZs). Although the law has required them since 2021, many cities with more than 50,000 residents received grace periods and temporary exemptions.
From 2026 onwards, authorities will fully enforce these zones, applying clear access restrictions and penalties for anyone who fails to comply.
