The changes to the general traffic regulations by the General Traffic Directorate (DGT) come into effect as from 1 October, the aim being to strengthen safety for the most vulnerable users and adapt the regulations to the changes in mobility of the last few years.

Main changes for personal vehicles (PMV)

• Minimum age of 15 to ride electric scooters.
• Mandatory use of helmets.
• Mandatory high-visibility vest at night or in conditions where visibility is poor.
• Mandatory permanent lights as from 1 October 2027.

Protection for cyclists

The changes include measures to improve coexistence and safety for cyclists:

• Mandatory use of helmets to circulate by bike on inter-urban routes, with no exceptions.
• When overtaking a bicycle, reduction of speed by at least 20 km/h compared to the usual speed limit.
• Vehicles must give cyclists clearance of at least 1.5 metres.
• On roads with more than one lane in each direction, overtaking vehicles must fully occupy the contiguous lane.
• In the city, vehicles must stay at least five metres back when circulating behind a bicycle.

New obligations for riders

Changes that stand out for users of motorcycles and mopeds include:

• Mandatory protective gloves when using inter-urban roads.
• Mandatory closed footwear on any type of road.
• As from 1 October 2027, moped rider must wear an authorised helmet.

Although at a state level the changes contemplate the possibility of motorcycles circulating on the hard shoulder in certain situations, the Catalan Traffic Service has announced that this measure in not currently applicable in Catalonia.

Delivery professionals

Professional riders who use bikes, electric scooters, motorcycles or mopeds must wear a helmet and reflective vest at all times when working.

Seatbelt mandatory for everybody

The revamp does away with some of the exemptions in place until now. This means that taxi drivers, delivery drivers and driving instructors must wear a seatbelt whenever they circulate.

Circulation in the snow

During episodes of intense snow on motorways and dual carriageways:

• Overtaking prohibited.
• One lane to be kept clear for emergencies, allowing emergency vehicles and snow ploughs to get past.