The DGT applies the new Regulation: Scooters, bicycles, and motorcycles from October 1

The DGT modifies the General Traffic Regulations and affects scooters, bicycles, and motorcycles. This reform introduces new obligations for vulnerable users and changes behaviors in the city and on the road.

The majority of measures will take effect on October 1, while some specific obligations are postponed until 2027; the regulations redefine who the vulnerable users are.

What does the new DGT Regulation imply for Scooters, bicycles, and motorcycles?

Why does this matter to the urban driver?

If you ride a scooter, bicycle, or motorcycle in the city, the rules change routines and responsibilities. It affects both the equipment you must carry and the way vehicles get used to sharing lanes and priority. This directly impacts the safety of the daily journey.

Which groups are most affected?

Vulnerable users (minors, riders, cyclists, and professional motorcyclists) will face new requirements: minimum ages, mandatory equipment, and stricter circulation conditions. This is especially relevant for couriers and students who travel daily.

Details by vehicle: Scooters, bicycles, and motorcycles

Scooters and LAMs: what changes?

The reform sets a minimum age of 15 years to drive a LAM and makes helmets mandatory for all users; the use of a reflective vest at night or in low visibility conditions is also imposed. Furthermore, circulation on conventional roads is prohibited and outside urban centers is limited to segregated lanes.

Bicycles: new rules for roads and city

Helmet compulsory on interurban roads and elimination of exemptions such as extreme heat; bicycle riders must wear helmets and vests at all times. Motor vehicles must reduce speed by 20 km/h when overtaking and maintain a minimum distance of 5 meters behind in the city.

Motorcycles, Sanctions, and specific rules

Which equipment is mandatory for motorcyclists?

Protective gloves on the road and closed footwear on all routes become obligatory; lack of these items is punishable with a 200 € fine (serious infraction). Technical specifications of gloves will be established by ministerial order.

How are traffic jams and emergencies handled?

Circulation on the right shoulder is authorized in traffic jams at a maximum of 30 km/h for motorcyclists and it is established that 1.5 meters must be left when passing immobilized vehicles; driving is prohibited on snowy roads and it is mandatory to circulate on the right lane on highways to facilitate snow removal machines.

Summary table: quick comparison of the new changes

Small note: the table only includes measures literally cited in the source; some technical details will be defined in subsequent orders.

What about seat belts and professionals in the city?

Taxi drivers, couriers, and driving instructors lose the seat belt exemption in urban sections; only ambulance patients requiring medical assistance are excluded.

What is the exact application schedule?

On October 1, 2026, most measures come into force, including the minimum age for LAMs, mandatory helmets for many users, and new obligations for motorcyclists and cyclists; on October 1, 2027, mandatory lighting for LAMs and the use of approved helmets for mopeds will be implemented.

How does it affect you and what can you do before October 1

How do I prepare my vehicle and equipment?

Check your helmet, add reflective elements, and adapt your riding style. For professional riders, it is advisable to update bags and gear to already meet new requirements and avoid 200 € fines.

What are the recommended practices on the road?

Maintain lateral distance and reduce speed by 20 km/h when overtaking cyclists, and remember that on highways you must open an emergency corridor in traffic jams to facilitate emergency services.

The DGT and the General Traffic Regulations are the regulatory framework setting these changes; careful reading upon their entry into force on October 1 will help you avoid fines and adapt habits. If you are a courier, parent, and urban driver: pay close attention.

The reality is that these rules change the daily life of vulnerable users. Take a moment to check your equipment and documentation, because the DGT has already set fines of 200 € for non-compliance and a clear schedule with October 1 as the key date; some specific measures, such as lighting for LAMs and approved helmets for mopeds, are postponed until October 1, 2027.