New Safety Rules for Motorcyclists Take Effect in Spain on October 1

Starting October 1, 2026, Spain will enforce new safety regulations for motorcyclists and moped riders, as part of changes to the General Traffic Regulations. Among these new requirements, riders are now obliged to wear protective gloves while traveling on interurban roads. Closed footwear that covers the entirety of the foot will also become mandatory across all road types, whether urban or interurban.

In addition to the new footwear and glove rules, helmets will continue to be compulsory for both drivers and passengers. Furthermore, motorcycles will require a high-visibility reflective vest to ensure higher visibility on the road. Riders must wear this vest if they exit their motorcycle and stand on the carriageway or hard shoulder of an interurban road. The regulation extends this requirement to all professional riders, including delivery riders, who must wear the vest while working on any type of road.

A significant provision is introduced for motorcyclists caught in heavy traffic. When vehicles come to a standstill due to congestion, motorcycles will be allowed to utilize the right-hand hard shoulder. However, riders must maintain single-file formation, exercise extreme caution, and keep their speed below 30 kilometres per hour. They must avoid endangering other vehicles already using the hard shoulder and must leave it open whenever necessary.

The Orihuela Local Police recommends that motorcycle riders familiarize themselves with these changes and acquire the necessary protective gear prior to the regulations' implementation. These measures aim to enhance the protection of motorcyclists and moped users, who continue to be among the most vulnerable road users in Spain. The changes are approved through Royal Decree 518/2026 and will be enforced nationwide starting October 1, 2026. The official legislation can be found in Spain’s State Gazette.