The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has approved a reform of the General Circulation Regulation that tightens obligations for Personal Mobility Vehicles (VMPs), such as electric scooters. These measures, effective from October 1, 2026, aim to improve road safety and protect the most vulnerable users, including pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and VMP riders themselves.
Key changes include the mandatory use of a helmet for all electric scooter riders. A minimum age of 15 years is also established for operating these vehicles. A reflective vest will be required at night or in low visibility conditions, and the vehicle's lighting must remain permanently on. Non-compliance will be considered a serious offense, punishable by a 200 euro fine. The requirement for permanent lighting on all scooters will be delayed until October 1, 2027.
This new regulation will directly impact municipalities like Alcorcon, where the use of electric scooters has significantly increased. Improper circulation on sidewalks and disregard for safety rules have led to neighborhood complaints. The DGT aims to improve coexistence on public roads with this reform.
The reform of the General Circulation Regulation also introduces changes for other road users. Drivers must maintain a minimum distance of five meters from cyclists when following them, and when overtaking on interurban roads, the maximum permitted speed must be reduced by 20 km/h, maintaining a lateral separation of 1.5 meters. A central lane in traffic jams will be mandatory to facilitate the passage of emergency vehicles. Motorcyclists must wear closed footwear and, on interurban roads, protective gloves. Taxi drivers and driving school instructors will no longer be exempt from using the seatbelt.
Most of the modifications will be applied from October 1, 2026, while certain specific obligations, such as permanent lighting for electric scooters or approved helmet technical requirements, will be postponed until October 1, 2027.
