Spain’s Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) has introduced new traffic rules with the connected emergency beacon, called the V16.
With the New Year comes new traffic rules in Spain. The V16 will replace the classic triangles in every car across the country.
This isn’t just another gadget for your glove compartment. The V16 will be mandatory from 2026, marking a big change in how Spanish drivers deal with accidents or breakdowns. By January 1, 2026, every car must carry a V16. The small yellow beacon is designed to be safer than triangles, mainly because you don’t even have to step out of your vehicle to use it.
The beacon sits on the roof or the highest visible part of your car and emits a bright 360-degree flashing yellow light. The light is visible from up to one kilometre away. Each device has a battery lasting at least 18 months and comes with built-in GPS and a non-removable SIM. This means your location can be transmitted to Spain’s connected traffic network, without subscription, for at least 12 years.
How to use the V16
- If you can keep driving: Turn on your hazard lights and move onto the right-hand shoulder until you reach a safe exit.
- If your car breaks down: Pull over onto the shoulder, leave your hazard lights on, activate the V16 and place it on the roof.
- If it is unsafe to get out: Stay inside with your seatbelt on until it’s safe. Only leave the car if you can reach a secure area without stepping onto the road.
- If you need help: Remember the V16 does not automatically call for assistance. You will still need to make a call.
Spain’s new traffic rules: V16 recommendations
The DGT also recommends keeping the beacon within easy reach, ideally in your glove compartment. That way it’s ready to grab when you need it.
Before you rush to buy one online, a word of caution: not all V16s are approved. Only devices with official DGT certification will be valid from 2026. Some models claim to be “connected” but don’t meet the proper safety standards or lack real connectivity, so they won’t be legally recognised.
To be safe, check the official DGT list of approved V16 models, available on their website. Each approved device comes with a downloadable certificate showing it meets all technical requirements. These certified beacons are guaranteed to maintain at least 12 years of connectivity, thanks to the embedded SIM, without extra costs.
Finally, make sure your V16’s battery is charged and that it’s stored somewhere easy to reach, like your glove box. Let’s hope it doesn’t, but if the time comes, you will be ready.
