Is the use of radar detectors legal in Spain in 2025? Regulations, sanctions, and alternatives

February 26, 2025

Are radar detectors legal in Spain in 2025?

The short answer is No. According to current legislation in Spain, the use of radar detectors are prohibited and can lead to financial penalties and the loss of points on your driver's license. However, it is important to know The differences between radar detectors, jammers, and warning devices, since some devices are legal and can help you avoid fines without breaking the law.

In this article, we'll analyze the current regulations, applicable penalties, and what legal alternatives exist for safer driving.

Related: If you're looking for other technologies to enhance your driving experience, check out our guide on parking sensors.

What does the DGT say about radar detectors in 2025?

The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has maintained a firm stance on radar detectors in recent years. The Traffic Law establishes that the use of radar detectors and jammers are prohibited In Spain, this means that any device that captures traffic radar signals or interferes with their operation is illegal.

Penalties for using a radar detector include:

Fine of €500
3 points removed from the driver's license
Possible immobilization of the vehicle in repeat offenders

Instead, Radar detectors are completely legal, as they use public databases of fixed radars without interfering with the signal.

Differences between radar detectors, jammers and warning devices

To fully understand which devices you can use without breaking the law, let's compare the different technologies:

Comparison table: legality of radar detection devices in Spain

Device	How does it work?	Is it legal in Spain?	Fine	Points removed
Radar detector	Captures radar signals in real time.	❌ Not allowed	500€	3
Radar jammer	Interfere with the radar signal to avoid fines.	❌ Illegal	6.000€	6
Radar detector	It uses fixed radar databases and reports their location.	✅ Legal	Not applicable	0

Penalties for using radar detectors in 2025

The use of a radar detector This can lead to serious penalties. The legal consequences are detailed below:

€500 fine by the use of detectors.
3 points less on the driver's license.
Up to €6,000 fine and 6 points deducted if a is used radar jammer.
Immobilization of the vehicle in some cases if the device is integrated into the car system.

Advice: If you are concerned about avoiding fines and want to drive more safely, consider using a radar detector, which is completely legal.

Legal alternatives to radar detectors

While detectors are prohibited, there are several legal alternatives that can help you avoid penalties without breaking the law:

GPS navigators with radar databases
- Models like the Garmin DriveSmart 65 include fixed radar alerts and control zones.
- See on Amazon: Garmin DriveSmart 65
Mobile applications
- Waze and Google Maps include radar alerts thanks to their user communities.
Specific radar warning devices
- Coyote Mini: A portable device that warns of fixed and mobile radars through community alerts.
- See on Amazon: Coyote Mini

Frequently asked questions about the legality of radar detectors

1. What happens if I have a radar detector installed but don't use it?
The law prohibits its use, not its possession. However, if you're stopped and found to be in your car, you could be fined.

2. Can radar detectors be purchased in Spain?
Yes, although its sale is not prohibited, its use on the road is illegal.

3. Can I use a radar detector in other countries?
In some EU countries, such as Germany or the United Kingdom, its use is legal. Before traveling, check local regulations.

4. What is better, a radar detector or a GPS with radar?
It depends on your usage. If you drive through different cities, a GPS with radars It's more practical. If you're looking for real-time alerts, a warning device like the Coyote Mini is a better option.

Conclusion: What to do to avoid speeding fines?

Although the radar detectors are prohibited, there are legal alternatives to driving more safely without breaking the law. The best option is use radar warning devices or GPS navigators with updated databases.

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