🚦 New DGT rules from October 1: guide for drivers, cyclists and motorcyclists

Attention, road users! 👀 This Thursday, October 1, 2026, the reform of the General Traffic Regulations (Royal Decree 518/2026) comes into force. The major new feature is the introduction of the concept of a vulnerable road user, which includes pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and e-scooter users. Here’s what changes for each group. 👇

🚗 Drivers

• Overtaking cyclists: outside built-up areas, reduce your speed by at least 20 km/h below the road’s speed limit and leave 1.5 metres of lateral clearance. 🚴
• Stationary vehicles: when passing a broken-down or accident-damaged vehicle, maintain the same lateral clearance and reduce your speed. ⚠️
• Traffic jams on motorways and dual carriageways: cars in the left lane should move as far left as possible, while vehicles in the other lanes should move to the right, leaving a clear central corridor for ambulances, fire engines and recovery vehicles. 🚑 This corridor is not an additional lane and therefore cannot be used for driving.
• Traffic lights: flashing amber will no longer be allowed to coincide with a green pedestrian signal. Running the new red phase will result in a €200 fine and 4 penalty points. 🔴
• In urban areas: when passing a cyclist, maintain a minimum distance of 5 metres.

🚲 Cyclists and e-scooter users

• Helmets mandatory for all cyclists on interurban roads, with none of the previous exceptions. ⛑️
• In urban areas, cyclists have the right to ride in the centre of the lane.
• Bicycle delivery riders will be required to wear a helmet and reflective vest. 🦺
• Electric scooters: minimum age of 15 and helmet compulsory. 🛴

🏍️ Motorcyclists

• Protective gloves are required on interurban roads and closed footwear on all roads. Say goodbye to flip-flops. 🩴❌
• During traffic congestion, they may exceptionally use the right-hand hard shoulder at low speed.
• Failure to comply with the required equipment is a serious offence punishable by a €200 fine. 💸

⏳ Watch the deadlines

Not everything will apply immediately. Moped helmets must be approved in accordance with UNECE R22, but there will be a one-year transitional period during which existing certificates can still be used.

✅ Our advice

These rules are intended to protect those who face the greatest risks on the road. Check your equipment, review the changes and share this article with family and friends who drive, cycle or ride motorcycles. 💙