Spain is tightening its rules for motorcyclists. Gloves, closed footwear and lane filtering in traffic are getting extra attention. Are you riding to Spain or renting a scooter there? This is what you need to know.
Last checked on 1 July 2026. No rights can be derived from this information.
Why is Spain changing the rules?
Spain wants to better protect vulnerable road users. This includes motorcyclists, moped riders, cyclists and users of electric scooters. For motorcyclists, this mainly means that riding gear is being taken more seriously and that clearer rules are being introduced for busy traffic situations.
Motorcycle gloves become mandatory outside built up areas
Riders and passengers on motorcycles and mopeds must wear protective gloves on roads outside built up areas in Spain. If you only ride in a city or village, the focus is mainly on the existing helmet requirement and the new rule for footwear. As soon as you ride out of town, gloves become important.
- The requirement applies to both rider and passenger.
- The rule applies on roads outside built up areas.
- Not complying with the requirement can result in a 200 euro fine.
Closed footwear becomes mandatory on all roads
Footwear also gets a clear place in the new rules. On a motorcycle or moped, you must wear closed footwear, no matter where you ride. Flip flops, sandals or open shoes are no longer an option. This also applies to short city rides or a quick scooter trip from your holiday address.
- Closed footwear is mandatory on all roads.
- The rule applies to motorcycles and mopeds.
- Riding with open shoes can be treated as a serious offence.
Lane filtering on a motorcycle
Spain allows motorcyclists to use the right hard shoulder in traffic jams under certain conditions. This is not allowed everywhere. There must be a traffic jam or clear congestion, and the route must be marked for this use. A maximum speed of 30 km/h also applies.
- It is only allowed during traffic congestion.
- You may not ride faster than 30 km/h.
- The route must be marked in advance.
What about helmets in Spain?
A helmet remains mandatory on motorcycles and mopeds. The new rules place extra emphasis on using an approved helmet. For scooter users, the requirement is being tightened: the helmet must be homologated and not just certified. For motorcyclists, the advice remains clear: choose a helmet that suits the rides you make and check whether it meets the correct European standard.
Do you ride longer distances or often travel outside built up areas? Then a full face helmet or modular helmet remains the most logical choice. An open face helmet gives you more freedom, but it does not protect your chin and face as well as a closed helmet.
When do the new rules come into force?
Most of the new rules come into force on 1 October 2026. The stricter requirement for homologated helmets for scooter users follows on 1 October 2027. For the glove requirement, the technical requirements are still being developed further. Until then, it is wise to wear protective motorcycle gloves that are suitable for normal motorcycle use.
Ride well prepared in Spain
The new Spanish rules mainly show that riding without proper gear is becoming less accepted. Are you going to Spain? Check not only your route, but also your riding gear. Want to leave well prepared? Browse our collection of motorcycle clothing and helmets.