Is it mandatory to carry the V16 beacon, vest or triangles in 2026 (Spain)?
In Spain, From January 1, 2026, the "equipment" and the legal way of signaling a breakdown or accident will change.. The most important thing is this:
V16 beacon connected: Yes, it is mandatory. and becomes the only legal means advance warning for a vehicle stopped on the road.
Triangles: in 2026 They cease to be the valid means of communication in Spain. for signaling (the connected V16 replaces them).
Reflective vest: Yes, it is mandatory to wear it as part of the vehicle's mandatory equipment, and use it if you have to leave and occupy the roadway/shoulder on intercity roads.
Below I explain it to you in a "legal-practical" way, with dates, exceptions and fines.
V16 beacon in 2026: what exactly is mandatory
Since when
From January 1, 2026, the V16 connected (the one that communicates the location to DGT 3.0) is mandatory forks the only recognized device in Spain to signal a stationary vehicle.
“Connected” is not optional in 2026
Until December 31, 2025, triangles and V16s coexisted (even unconnected in some transient scenarios), but that transition ends and from 2026 Connectivity becomes a requirement.
What does “only legal means” mean?”
This means that if you are stopped due to a breakdown/accident and need to signal:
The valid one is the connected V16 (mounted on the ceiling, visible 360º, etc.)
the triangles They no longer count as regulatory signage in Spain from 2026 (although you can take them "just in case" to other countries; we'll see that below).
Fine for not wearing it
The DGT has clarified that:
not to carry the V16 (or carrying an invalid/non-approved one) is considered a minor offense and the penalty is 80 €.
Will we have to wear triangles in 2026?
In Spain (2026)
No: from 2026 the connected V16 permanently replaces to triangles as a legal system of pre-signaling.
Important: what has already changed since 2023
From the July 1, 2023, in motorways and dual carriageways already It was not mandatory get out to place triangles (for safety).
So… throw them away?
In Spain in 2026 They're not useful for "fulfilling" your obligations“ with the obligation to provide signaling (which the connected V16 does). But Yes, they can make sense if you're traveling abroad., because:
Spain published a instruction to clarify the use of the V16 in international circulation, and outside of Spain the destination country may keep demanding triangles as mandatory equipment.
Practical tip: If you are leaving Spain with a car registered in Spain, check the regulations of the destination country (many still require warning triangles and other items).
Is it mandatory to wear a reflective vest in 2026?
Yes: it is mandatory equipment
He General Vehicle Regulations It includes, among other things, the following as mandatory equipment:
the V-16 device, and
a high-visibility reflective vest certified (with CE marking and applicable standard).
When should you use it?
The standard practice is: If you get out of the vehicle and are going to occupy the roadway or shoulder on intercity roads, You should put it on before going out (for visibility and safety).
What should a "normal" tourist carry in 2026?
Recommended minimum checklist (Spain):
V16 beacon connected and approved (stored in the glove compartment or within easy reach, so you don't have to go out to look for it).
Reflective vest (ideally accessible from the passenger compartment).
TrianglesNot to be met in Spain by 2026, but Useful if you travel abroad And the country demands them.
How to avoid common mistakes (and fines)
Error 1: Buying a "cheap" V16 that is not connected or is not valid for 2026.
It has to be in 2026 connected and approved (it is not enough that it “looks like” or says “type V16”).
Error 2: thinking that “with triangles I already comply”.
In 2026, NoThe legal system in Spain becomes the connected V16.
Error 3: forgetting the vest or carrying it inaccessible.
The vest is part of the mandatory equipment and, if you have to go out, the correct thing to do is to put it on before occupying the shoulder/intercity roads.
Quick questions
Does the beacon geolocate me "all the time"?
The Spanish Data Protection Agency (AEPD) and the Spanish Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) have published clarifications on privacy: the beacon transmits when used to signal an emergency, and the objective is road safety.
Is the €80 fine “certain”?
That's what the DGT has publicly stated for “not carrying the V16” (minor offense).
How do I know if my V16 beacon is valid for 2026?
It must clearly state that it is “V16 connected”, be approved by the DGT and have connectivity service included (usually for several years).
Do I have to pay a subscription fee for the V16 connection?
Normally No. Most approved beacons include integrated connectivity throughout their lifespan (this should be indicated by the manufacturer).
Where should I store the V16 beacon?
In an accessible location from inside the vehicle (glove compartment, door, console). The idea is not having to go out to look for her.
Do I have to get out of the car to install the V16?
No. The great advantage is that it is placed from the inside, by resting it on the roof or activating it without invading the roadway.
What happens if I have a V16 connected but without a battery?
It is considered how not to wear it, as it is not fulfilling its function. This may result in a penalty. It is advisable to check the battery at least once a year.
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