Traffic reform 2026: driving on the shoulder and new obligations

The reform of the General Traffic Regulation approved by the Council of Ministers on June 23, 2026 marks a before and after in traffic management in Spain. Among the most striking new features is the authorization for motorcyclists to ride in the right lane during traffic jams, a maneuver previously expressly prohibited. The measure comes after years of debate and demands from motorcyclists' associations, who have ensured that safety is the focus of the new regulation.

This reform not only affects motorcyclists but also modifies the behavior of vehicle drivers and cyclists, placing priority on protecting vulnerable users. The Regulation also establishes new equipment obligations and specific sanctions for professional couriers and users of personal mobility vehicles.

Permission to ride in the shoulder: what changes for motorcyclists?

What conditions must be met to ride in the right lane?

Motorcyclists may ride in the right lane only when there is traffic congestion and always respecting a maximum speed of 30 km/h during the journey on the shoulder. Additionally, the corresponding section must be previously signaled to ensure safety and avoid accidents.

Why is this measure relevant for the regular driver?

This authorization provides fluidity to traffic jams and reduces the risk of hitting stationary vehicles. The DGT aims to minimize rear-end collisions with stopped vehicles and, at the same time, facilitate safer overtaking for motorcyclists.

New mandatory equipment for motorcyclists and couriers

What new equipment obligations are imposed?

All drivers and passengers of motorcycles and mopeds must wear certified protective gloves, a change that will be a serious offense punishable by a 200 euro fine. Open footwear is also prohibited on any road, requiring universally closed footwear.

How does this reform affect professional couriers?

Motorcyclists who work as couriers must wear a reflective vest at all times during the workday, with a 200 euro fine for non-compliance. Professional cyclists must also use this equipment, and private cyclists must wear a helmet and reflective vest, especially at night or in low visibility conditions.

Changes in coexistence between vehicles, cyclists, and PMPs

What measures are adopted to protect cyclists on the roads?

Vehicle drivers overtaking cyclists on interurban roads must reduce speed by at least 20 km/h below the maximum road limit and perform a full lane change when there is more than one lane per direction, maintaining a lateral separation of 1.5 meters. In the city, cyclists will preferably ride in the center of the lane, and vehicles must respect a minimum distance of 5 meters when following a bicycle.

What restrictions apply to Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMPs)?

PMPs must have a minimum age of 15 years to circulate and must keep the light on at all times. Professional drivers must wear a helmet and reflective vest at all times, while private users must do so at night or in low visibility conditions. Outside urban areas, they may only circulate on segregated motor vehicle lanes, such as bike lanes.

The decree also regulates the emergency lane in traffic jams, prohibits overtaking during heavy snow, and strengthens protection for vulnerable users with specific sanctions and obligations.

The rule will come into effect on October 1, 2026, with some more lenient deadlines for the use of certified gloves and helmets for mopeds until October 1, 2027.

The DGT has opted for a radical change that, beyond the regulation, aims to achieve more responsible and safer driving for everyone, especially in a context where sustainable mobility and the protection of vulnerable users gain prominence.

Therefore, adapting to these new rules is not only a matter of legal compliance but also of common sense and respect on the road.

It is clear that these new measures will change the way motorcyclists, drivers, and cyclists coexist from now on, and time will tell if they really manage to reduce accidents and improve traffic flow.