Spain's New Roadside Safety Rule from 1 January 2026 — Replace Triangles with V-16 Beacon
- Venetia House
- Oct 6, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 3, 2025
New Roadside Safety Rule from 1 January 2026 — Transition to V-16 Beacon in Spain
Starting 1 January 2026, Spanish law will require all Spanish-registered vehicles to carry a DGT-approved emergency V-16 beacon instead of the traditional warning triangles. This change, issued by the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), aims to enhance safety for drivers who find themselves stopped on the roadside. The new beacon allows drivers to signal a breakdown without leaving their vehicle, making it a safer option, especially on busy motorways.
What Is the V-16 Beacon?
The V-16 is a compact, flashing amber roof beacon. It replaces the need to place warning triangles behind your vehicle. You can activate it from inside the car, and it flashes 360° to alert other drivers. This feature makes it a much safer choice on motorways and high-speed roads.
Technical Requirements for V-16 Beacons
Approved V-16 beacons must meet specific DGT standards. Here are the key requirements:
360° amber flashing light: It must be visible in all directions.
Minimum battery life: The beacon should have a sufficient autonomous operation time.
Weather resistance: It must withstand various weather conditions.
DGT 3.0 connectivity: This feature sends your vehicle’s location directly to the DGT when activated.
Only V-16 beacon models certified for use in Spain and connected to the DGT 3.0 system will be legally valid.
Transition Period
You can continue using traditional warning triangles until 31 December 2025. However, from 1 January 2026, only the V-16 beacon will be legally accepted. If you fail to carry a compliant beacon, you could face fines ranging from €80 to €200.
The DGT Recommends
To ensure you are prepared for this change, the DGT recommends the following:
Buy your beacon now: Choose a DGT-approved model that complies with DGT 3.0 connectivity.
Check certification: Make sure the model is officially approved for use in Spain.
Keep it charged and handy: Store it in your glovebox so it’s ready when needed.
Learn how to use it safely: Practice activating it from inside your vehicle.
Understanding the Importance of Road Safety
Road safety is crucial, especially for those of us who may not be as agile as we once were. The V-16 beacon is designed to make our experience on the road safer. It allows us to signal for help without stepping out of our vehicles, which can be a dangerous move, especially on busy roads.
Benefits of the V-16 Beacon
The V-16 beacon offers several benefits:
Increased Visibility: The flashing light is more visible than a stationary triangle, especially in low-light conditions.
Ease of Use: Activating the beacon from inside your car is straightforward and quick.
Enhanced Safety: It minimizes the risk of accidents while you are trying to signal for help.
Conclusion
As we approach the deadline for this new regulation, it's essential to stay informed and prepared. The transition to the V-16 beacon is not just a legal requirement; it's a step towards safer driving in Spain.
For more detailed information, you can read the official DGT publication and list of approved devices here: DGT Official Information — V-16 Beacons (PDF).
Get in touch for assistance or to answer any of those unanswered questions!
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