Spain introduces mandatory gloves and shoulder‑lane use for motorcyclists

Spain’s Directorate‑General for Traffic (DGT) has approved new road‑traffic regulations that will come into force on 1 October 2026. The rules allow motorcycles to travel on the right hard shoulder during heavy congestion or a standstill, but only at speeds of 30 km/h or less, only where signage permits it, and with priority given to cyclists, agricultural vehicles and emergency services.

The reforms also make protective gloves and closed footwear compulsory for riders and passengers on all out‑of‑town roads. Non‑compliance can result in fines of up to €200, which Guardia Civil officers will enforce. The changes aim to reduce the severity of injuries among vulnerable road users and improve traffic flow while maintaining safety.

Additional provisions require motorists to change lanes fully when overtaking cyclists and to slow down when passing stopped vehicles. Central emergency corridors are to be created to aid emergency services during major traffic jams.