Huge warning to Brits heading to Spain next year as they face £860 fine | World | News
Electric scooters have become a common sight on Spain’s city streets in recent years; it cuts through traffic, saves commuters money, and offers a fast, environmentally friendly way to get around. But the sense of freedom on two wheels is about to face tighter control. New traffic regulations will come into force from January 2, 2026, and drivers who ignore them could face heavy fines. Spain’s General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has announced that electric scooters will be officially classified as light personal vehicles, meaning they will fall within the same legal framework as motorcycles and cars in terms of safety standards and insurance requirements.
So far, using e-scooters in Spain has been virtually fruitless; no license, no insurance and in most cases no liability. But starting in 2026, most electric scooter owners will be required to have civil liability insurance to cover damage or injuries caused by others. The annual cost of this new insurance will reportedly range between €20 and €100, depending on the level of cover. Brits traveling to Spain next year have been warned that anyone caught cycling without one could be fined up to €1,000 (£860).
The change follows a rise in scooter-related accidents across Spain and growing public frustration with the lack of clear regulations.
According to the government, the aim is to improve road safety and guarantee appropriate protection for everyone involved in the accident.
For years, pedestrians and drivers have complained that scooters have become a danger rather than a convenience. Authorities hope that with clearer rules, Spain’s roads will finally become safer and more orderly.
The new law does not apply to every e-scooter.
To fall under the rule, the scooter must:
- Being a motor vehicle with one or more wheels
- Reach speeds of 6 to 25 km/h if weighing less than 25 kg
- Or if heavier than that, reach speeds of 6 to 14 km/h
The scooter must also have a circulation certificate, be registered in the DGT’s official vehicle database and have a visible identification plate.
Along with the new insurance rule, riders will need to adhere to existing safety measures: wearing a helmet, using reflective clothing when riding at night, and sticking to one rider per scooter.
