Mandatory from 2026: What drivers in Spain need to know about the V16 warning light

Mandatory from 2026: What drivers in Spain need to know about the V16 warning light

Introduction: Spain's big step towards traffic safety

One of the most significant changes in road traffic in recent decades is about to take place in Spain.
From January 1, 2026, the classic warning triangle requirement will be history – replaced by a modern, digital safety system: the V16 warning light.

What many initially consider a small detail is actually a fundamental modernization of breakdown and accident protection.
The Spanish traffic authority DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) pursues a clear goal: fewer accidents, faster reactions, more safety – and a step towards "Smart Traffic."

But what does this specifically mean for drivers – especially for Germans who regularly travel in Spain or live there?
This article explains everything you need to know about the V16 requirement from 2026: laws, transition periods, technology, costs, and practical tips.

1. The legal background: Royal Decree 159/2021

The V16 requirement is based on Royal Decree 159/2021, which came into force on July 1, 2021.
It replaces previous regulations on the use of warning triangles and defines new safety standards in case of a breakdown or accident.

The key points of the law:

  • 🟢 2021 – 2025:
    Transition phase. Drivers may choose whether to use warning triangles or a V16 light.

  • 🟡 From January 1, 2026:
    Only connected ("conectadas") V16 lights are approved.
    The warning triangle loses its validity.

  • 🔵 Mandatory for:
    All vehicles registered in Spain – including cars, vans, trucks, buses, and rental cars.

  • 🔴 Not affected:
    Motorcycles and mopeds (recommended but not legally required).

This makes Spain one of the first countries in Europe to completely replace traditional safety methods with digital solutions.

2. Why is the V16 becoming mandatory?

The main reason is safety.
According to the DGT, numerous traffic fatalities on highways each year are due to drivers leaving their vehicles to set up a warning triangle.

This often happens in darkness, fog, or on unlit roads – situations where approaching vehicles have little time to react.

The V16 light elegantly solves this problem:
It can be activated from the driver's seat and placed on the car roof through the window or the sunroof.
A magnet fixes it in place, and the powerful yellow flashing light makes the vehicle visible within seconds – from over 1 kilometer away.

This eliminates the most dangerous moment: getting out onto the roadway.
That alone significantly reduces the risk of accidents.

3. How does the "connected" V16 beacon work?

The "V16 conectada" mandated from 2026 is not just a light signal.
It is an intelligent safety device that communicates with the central DGT platform.

Technical process:

  1. Driver activates the beacon in case of breakdown or accident.

  2. The integrated GPS module automatically determines the vehicle's position.

  3. The built-in GSM modem sends this data to the DGT 3.0 platform.

  4. The warning is transmitted in real time to other road users, navigation systems, and traffic management systems.

This all happens automatically, without a smartphone, app, or internet connection.
The beacon also works in dead zones – it then stores the location locally and sends the data as soon as the network is available again.

4. What is the DGT 3.0 platform?

The DGT 3.0 is Spain's new digital traffic data center.
It collects real-time information from:

  • connected vehicles,

  • Street cameras,

  • Weather stations,

  • and in the future millions of V16 beacons.

This data flows into an intelligent system that makes accidents, breakdowns, and traffic obstructions immediately visible – on navigation devices, in apps, and on electronic highway signs.

This means:
When you activate your V16, other drivers already know seconds later that there is an obstacle ahead.
This way they can brake or change lanes in time – a crucial safety advantage.

5. Which V16 lights are approved?

Not every warning light is allowed to be used.
The DGT has published an official list of homologated models. Only devices on this list are permitted from 2026.

Approval requirements according to DGT:

  • 360° light distribution

  • Visibility of at least 1 km

  • Weather and temperature resistant (IP54 or higher)

  • Operating time at least 30 minutes

  • Integrated communication module (GSM/GPRS)

  • Clear serial and homologation number

When purchasing, be sure to look for the imprint "Homologada por la DGT" or the marking "V16 DGT XXXX".
Only this way are you legally on the safe side.

6. How much does a V16 light cost?

Prices vary depending on model and equipment.

  • Simple (non-connected) lights: 15 – 30 € – only permitted until the end of 2025.

  • Connected models ("conectadas"): 35 – 80 €, sometimes including 10 years of data service (SIM connection).

Since around 30 million vehicles in Spain need to be retrofitted, an early purchase is recommended – demand will rise sharply towards the end of 2025.

7. What penalties apply for violations?

From January 1, 2026, the following applies:
Anyone who does not carry or use a approved V16 device during a breakdown or accident can be fined with a penalty.

The exact amount is still being determined by the DGT, but it is likely to be within the range of other traffic safety violations – that is, between 100 and 200 euros.
Important: Insurances could also check in the event of damage whether the prescribed safety system was present.

8. What applies to tourists and German drivers?

There is no legal obligation for vehicles registered in Germany.
However, the following applies:
Anyone traveling in Spain must comply with the local traffic regulations.

This means:
If your vehicle breaks down on a Spanish road, you should use the same safety equipment as a Spanish driver.
Many rental car companies already equip their fleets with V16 lights to be on the safe side.

Even for German residents in Spain or long-term vacationers, it is recommended to purchase a homologated V16 to avoid regulations and insurance problems.

9. Data protection: What happens to the transmitted data?

The DGT explicitly emphasizes that all transmitted data is anonymized.
No personal information or vehicle license plates are stored.

The V16 only sends:

  • Geocoordinates of the incident,

  • Timestamp,

  • and an event indicator ("Breakdown/Accident").

This data is only processed as long as necessary for the hazard notification and is then automatically deleted.
This ensures GDPR-compliant use.

10. Tips for buying a V16 light

  1. Pay attention to DGT approval: Only buy homologated models.

  2. Choose the connected version: Mandatory from 2026 – best to invest future-proof now.

  3. Pay attention to battery life and brightness: At least 30 minutes of operation time, high light intensity.

  4. Check if the data service is included: Reputable manufacturers offer 10 years of GSM connection without additional costs.

  5. Reputable dealers prefer: Amazon.es, Norauto, FeuVert, El Corte Inglés, or manufacturer webshops.

11. The European perspective

Spain is considered a pioneer in Europe with the V16 requirement.
France, Italy, and Portugal are examining similar systems.
The EU Commission is closely monitoring the project to possibly adopt it as a model for a Europe-wide regulation.

In the coming years, the V16 could thus become the standard across Europe – comparable to the introduction of the seatbelt or the warning vest.

12. Conclusion: A requirement with added value

The V16 requirement is not a bureaucratic end in itself, but a real advancement.
It protects drivers, makes stranded vehicles visible earlier, and integrates Spain into a modern, connected traffic system.

For drivers, this means:

  • more safety,

  • less risk,

  • and the assurance that they meet the new legal requirements.

Those who act early and get an approved V16 light are well prepared – and actively contribute to safety on Spain's roads.

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