The Spanish Government approved an amendment to the General Road Traffic Regulations that introduces new obligations for drivers and passengers of motorcycles and mopeds. The rules come into force on 1 October 2026 and include the mandatory use of closed footwear covering the entire foot, with flip-flops, sandals or other open footwear no longer permitted, both inside and outside urban areas. The Spanish Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) also establishes the mandatory use of protective gloves on interurban roads, covering both drivers and passengers.
The new rules aim to increase the protection of the most vulnerable road users on Spanish roads. Anyone who ignores these obligations commits a serious offence, punishable with a fine of €200. The regulation also brings other novelties, such as the possibility of riding on the right shoulder at up to 30 km/h in traffic congestion situations, but only on sections previously signposted for this purpose.
Professionals who use motorcycles for work, known as "riders", will have to always wear a reflective vest. Certain requirements regarding approved helmets are scheduled to come into force on 1 October 2027. The changes apply only in Spain and do not directly alter the rules in force for motorcyclists riding in Portugal.
