DGT clarifies speed camera error margins in Spain

The Spanish Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) has clarified the varying error margins applied by different types of speed cameras across the national road network. These margins are not discretionary but are technical requirements mandated by legal metrology regulations to account for the inherent measurement uncertainty in all devices.

Fixed cameras on roads with limits below 100 km/h typically apply a margin of 5 km/h, though latest-generation equipment may reduce this tolerance to 3%. For limits exceeding 100 km/h, a 5% margin is standard, with newer models also utilizing a 3% threshold.

Mobile radars, used by patrol cars or tripods, maintain the widest margin of 7 km/h or 7%. In contrast, section cameras (radares de tramo), which measure average speed between two points rather than instantaneous speed, are the strictest, applying a margin of only 3 km/h or 3%.

These technical distinctions are critical for drivers, as sudden braking near a camera does not negate a violation detected by section cameras. Recent enforcement data from August shows significant activity, with the Guardia Civil's Traffic Group conducting 3,466 control points and verifying over one million vehicles.