DGT 2026 Regulations Motorcycles: Mandatory Equipment

Let's be honest: nobody likes to be fined, especially for not wearing the proper gear. The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) has decided to get serious and, as of January 2026, new safety regulations came into effect for all of us who ride motorcycles.

The objective is clear: to reduce accidents and protect us better in case of a fall. But what does this mean for your day-to-day? Can you get fined for going to buy bread in canvas sneakers? At Motocorner, we'll explain it in plain English so you don't have any surprises.

1. Approved Gloves Mandatory: Don't even think about riding bare-handed

No more riding with your hands uncovered or using those old-school, cut-off leather "custom" style gloves. Starting in 2026, the DGT requires all motorcycle and moped riders to wear certified protective gloves when riding on interurban roads.

• The key regulation: Your gloves must have the CE label and comply with EN 13594 standards. This guarantees they can withstand abrasion if you kiss the asphalt. Fingerless gloves are no longer legal under any circumstances.

2. Closed-toe Footwear: Goodbye flip-flops and sandals

It gets hot in the summer, we know. But riding in flip-flops, sandals, or footwear that doesn't properly support your foot is now strictly prohibited on all types of roads. You must always wear closed-toe footwear. The ideal (and what will truly save your foot in an accident) are boots with EN 13634 certification that protect the ankle. For more information, check out our guide on motorcycle protective gear.

3. Helmet: Zero medical excuses and new homologation

The helmet has always been non-negotiable, but now the rules are stricter.

• Goodbye exemptions: The DGT has eliminated any type of medical exemption that allowed some riders not to wear a helmet.
• Properly fastened: Riding with your helmet unbuckled or improperly adjusted is a direct reason for a fine.
• ECE 22.06 Homologation: While you can continue to use your old helmet (ECE 22.05) if it's in good condition, all new helmets sold must comply with the new and demanding ECE 22.06 standard, which offers much better protection against dreaded rotational impacts. Furthermore, it is strongly recommended to avoid open-face (Jet) helmets on the road. To learn more, check out our ultimate guide to motorcycle helmets.

4. The Famous Airbag Vest: Is it mandatory for everyone?

There's a lot of confusion on the street about this, so let's clarify. The airbag vest is mandatory for driving school students and instructors during practice and A license exams. For the rest of us, for now, it remains highly recommended, although the DGT is considering making it mandatory for professional riders and for riding on interurban roads with high-displacement motorcycles in the very near future. Our advice: if you can afford it, it's the best safety investment you'll make. Find out more about motorcycle airbags.

5. Connected V-16 Light: Do I have to carry it?

While it's mandatory for cars as of January 2026, motorcycles and mopeds are exempt from carrying the V-16 light beacon due to the obvious lack of space. However, if you have room under the seat or in a top box, it's highly recommended to carry it to make yourself visible from 1 kilometer away if you break down at night. If you're interested in buying or selling, don't miss our used motorcycles.

⚠️ The Wallet Pain: Fines and Insurance Issues

Failure to comply with this mandatory equipment (like riding without certified gloves, in flip-flops, or with an unbuckled helmet) is considered a serious offense. The penalty? A fine of 200 euros and the loss of up to 4 points on your driver's license.

But beware, there's something worse than the fine: if you have an accident and are wearing uncertified gear (without a CE label), insurance companies can give you a lot of trouble when it comes to compensating you for your injuries. We recommend visiting our motorcycle forum to share your experiences on this matter.

Need to update your motorcycle wardrobe?

With the law in hand, it's time to check your wardrobe and see if your gloves or boots comply with the regulations.

• Looking for new or used gear? Stop by our Marketplace to sell that helmet you no longer use or find bargains on approved gloves.
• Prefer to try everything on and get advice? Find the best professionals and physical stores in our Shops and Workshops directory.
• Already fully legal and looking sharp? Then all that's left is to enjoy. Find your "tribe" in our Motorcycle Clubs section or go burn some gas discovering new routes at Events.

Dress for the fall, not for the ride, and see you on the road! ✌️