V16 rotating beacon Spain Mandatory

New regulations: V16 flashing light soon to be mandatory in Spain

Spain's Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) has announced that, starting January 1, 2026, all vehicles in Spain, whether registered locally or abroad, will be required to be equipped with a V16 flashing light. This modern device replaces the emergency warning triangle, which is often considered risky to deploy, particularly on motorways and expressways.

The V16 rotating beacon can be stored in the trunk or passenger compartment of the vehicle and should be used in the event of a breakdown, accident or forced stop to signal the presence of the vehicle quickly and safely.

Main features and benefits of the V16 rotating beacon

  • Improved visibility: It emits a flashing orange or yellow light, visible up to 1 kilometer, even in bad weather (rain, fog, etc.).
  • Reliable battery life: It is designed to operate for at least 30 minutes while emitting 360° light.
  • Built-in geolocation: Some models include a GPS system that allows the vehicle's exact location to be sent to authorities in real time. This facilitates rapid response by emergency services or law enforcement.
  • Affordable cost: V16 flashing lights are available at prices ranging from 40 to 60 euros, depending on the model and its features.

Sanctions for non-compliance

Drivers who fail to comply with this new requirement will face a fine of between 80 and 200 euros. This measure is part of Spain's 2030 Strategic Road Safety Plan, which aims to halve the number of road deaths and serious injuries by the end of the decade.

Regulations that also affect tourists

Foreign visitors driving in Spain will be subject to this requirement. All vehicles, whether local or not, must be equipped with this device without exception.

Spain, a pioneer in road safety

This is not the first time Spain has distinguished itself with initiatives promoting driver safety. In 2004, it had already overtaken several European countries, including France, by making yellow vests mandatory in every vehicle. France adopted this measure only four years later, in 2008.

With this new regulation, Spain continues to be a model in road safety. The V16 flashing light could also inspire other countries, as the Yellow Vest movement did at the time, to improve driver safety in emergency situations.

If you have any questions about this regulation or would like to equip yourself with an approved V16 flashing light , do not hesitate to find out more and prepare yourself before your trips in Spain.

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