The new regulation from the DGT came into effect this Thursday, requiring mandatory helmets, a minimum age of 15 years, and national vehicle registration. The Tres Cantos City Council has informed residents through the Local Police.
Users of electric scooters and other personal mobility vehicles (PMVs) must wear a certified or approved protective helmet from this Thursday in Tres Cantos and across Spain. The reform of the General Traffic Regulation, published by the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT), also sets the minimum age for driving these vehicles at 15 years, as reported by the local council, according to madridactual.es.
The first deputy mayor and councillor for Security, Javier Juárez, stated that the new obligations will enhance the protection of scooter users and allow for a more orderly coexistence in the urban environment. The councillor for Mobility, María del Mar Sánchez, added that "personal mobility vehicles are already part of the daily commutes for many people, and it is essential that their use is compatible with the safety of pedestrians and other road users."
Knowing and respecting the rules is essential for moving towards safer and more responsible mobility," Sánchez stated.
The City Council, in coordination with the Local Police, has informed residents of the main updates. Among these, the requirement for PMV drivers to wear their helmets properly fastened. Those under 15 years old are prohibited from driving these vehicles. Additionally, between dusk and dawn, or when visibility is reduced, they must carry at least one light or reflective element that makes them visible from a minimum distance of 150 meters. During the day, the lighting of the PMV must remain on.
Those using a PMV in the course of a professional activity will be required to wear a high-visibility reflective vest. The Local Police reminds that it is prohibited to ride on sidewalks and pedestrian areas, as well as to use mobile phones or headphones while driving. They are also not allowed to travel on highways, dual carriageways, interurban roads, crossings, or urban tunnels, except for the exceptions outlined in the regulations.
PMV owners must register their vehicles in the National Vehicle Register of the DGT. This process allows for obtaining a unique registration number and the corresponding digital certificate, both necessary to acquire the identification label and formalise the mandatory insurance. The label must be placed in a visible part of the vehicle. Registration can be done electronically through the DGT Electronic Headquarters. If the owner is a minor, the process must be carried out by their legal guardian.
PMVs marketed from 22 January 2024 must have certification to circulate. Those purchased before this date without certification may continue to be used until 22 January 2027, provided they are registered and insured. After this date, only those that meet the established technical requirements and have the corresponding certificate will be allowed to circulate.
The reform also tightens the requirements for motor vehicle drivers when overtaking cyclists. PMVs are defined as single-seat vehicles, powered exclusively by electric motors, with a maximum speed by design ranging from 6 to 25 kilometres per hour.
You may also like
