the V16 beacon connected It will be Legal means only to Danger warning In Spain from January 1, 2026, permanently replacing the emergency triangles. This is what the DGT states in its updated official memorandum.
This procedure seeks to avoid Unnecessary risks: With simple amber light and Contact geolocationThe occurrence of a malfunction or accident is indicated without leaving the vehicle, which reduces the risk of being run over by placing signs on the road.
Who should wear the V16 in 2026?
| Vehicle type | Had to carry the V16 | Triangles allowed from 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Tourism with Spanish registration | Yes | no |
| Light truck/commercial vehicle (Spanish registration) | Yes | no |
| Buses, trucks and freight vehicles (Spanish registration) | Yes | no |
| Adaptable mixed vehicles / non-special combinations (Spanish registration) | Yes | no |
What the regulations require
- the The beacon must be the “connected” version.: Flashing amber light + Electronic SIM card / geolocation Linked to DGT 3.0 platform.
- It should be placed at the highest possible point From the vehicle, preferably on the roof or on the upper side if it is not accessible.
- When enabled, sends Vehicle location To alert other users through dashboards, browsers or support systems.
Exempt vehicles: that will be able to continue using triangles or without a V16 signal
| Vehicle type | V16 Commitment | The use of triangles is permitted | Commentary/context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourism with foreign registration | no | Yes | Spanish regulations do not require registration outside Spain. |
| Foreign commercial/industrial vehicles (truck, van, etc.) | no | Yes | Same exemption: Foreign registration exempts from the obligation. |
| Motorcycles, scooters, VMP | no | Reflective vest (mandatory), Triangles/V16 optional | The regulations do not include two-wheeled vehicles. |
| Bicycles | no | No signage required | outside the scope of obligations; DGT does not require a V16 engine. |
| Agricultural, forestry or private vehicles | no | Depends on specific regulations/not required | It is not on the list of damaged vehicles. |
| Trailers and semi-trailers | no | Depends on diameter set | The obligation usually falls on the towing vehicle (car, truck…). |
What does the DGT say about exemptions?
the DGT explained That vehicles are registered abroad They are not obligated To carry a Beacon V16 when traveling through Spain. Even if he is its owner Spanish residentThe rule does not affect them as long as they maintain a foreign registration.
In the case of motorcycles, scooters or VMP, the obligation never existed, and the regulations were designed for that Passenger cars, commercials and vansTrucks and buses. For practical reasons (Limited space, ubiquitous use of reflective vest), the V16 doesn’t reign supreme on two wheels.
Fines and Penalties Why it is not recommended to wait
- the Penalty for not carrying a Beacon V16 connected And being approved (and obliged to do so) could be on the cards 80 euros.
- If the absence of the device prevents the signal of a stopped vehicle after an accident or malfunction, the violation may be raised to 200 eurosalthough not losing points.
Why is the V16 a real improvement?
- It does not require Get out of the car to mark: The light is powered from inside, just place it on the ceiling. Key details Finger strike on hot metala magnetic click, and the flash of a traffic light in the distance.
- Visibility range is up to 1 km In ideal conditions, though, the shape can be reduced by curves, fog, rain, or slopes.
- Integration with DGT 3.0 platform: Other drivers can get a location alert, speeding up the chain reaction and reducing risks.
What should the driver do now?
- If your car Registered in Spain: Buy a certified V16 now, with connectivity (e‑SIM) and make sure it’s charged and accessible in the car. The ideal solution is to keep it in the glove compartment or somewhere always within easy reach.
- If your car foreign: You can continue to use triangles but be careful in countries outside Spain: always check local regulations.
- If you are driving Motorcycle, moped, VMP: There is no obligation, although the V16 engine can be used voluntarily as an additional safety feature, especially on the road.