New traffic rules for motorcycles, scooters and bikes: this is how the change that applies starting from today affects you

MadridAs of this Thursday, October 1, 2026, the change in traffic regulations to protect the most vulnerable, which was approved by the Council of Ministers in June, will be applied. Below, we explain all the most relevant changes to the new regulations:

New rules for bicycles

• From now on, riders or delivery workerswill have to wear a helmet and a reflective vest. Otherwise, it will be considered a serious offense with a penalty of 200 euros.
• The exemptions for the use of helmets for all cyclists on interurban roads are abolished, that is to say, on journeys between cities.
• When a car overtakes a bike, it must reduce its speed by 20 km/h below the limit set for the road, and if there are two lanes, it must change lanes completely to allow more space.
• Cyclists shall preferably ride in the center of the lane.

New rules for scooters

• The minimum age to ride an electric scooter (or personal mobility vehicle) will be 15 years old.
• The helmet and the reflective vest will be mandatory in areas of low visibility. Professionals dedicated to distribution must always wear them. Otherwise, the fine will be 200 euros.
• They will have to carry lights.

New rules for motorcycles

• The use of protective gloves will be mandatory for drivers and passengers on intercity trips, in addition to closed footwear on all types of roads. That is to say, it will not be allowed to drive in flip-flops. The fine will be 200 euros.
• Helmets must be homologated and not just registered.
• Driving on the right shoulder of the road will be allowed provided that the speed does not exceed 30 km per hour in case of traffic congestion.
• As in the case of riders on bikes and scooters, they will also have to wear a reflective vest.

A change for taxi drivers

• From now on they will also be required to wear a seat belt. There are no longer any exemptions.

Other changes

• When it snows, you may only drive in the right lane and overtaking will be prohibited. The left lane will be left free for emergency vehicles.
• At pedestrian crossings with traffic lights, the flashing amber light may not coincide with the green light for pedestrians to cross. A measure that mainly affects cities like Barcelona.