Several new traffic laws come into effect in Spain

The regulations will increase the number of penalty points for many infractions

New driving measures

• Minors driving any kind of vehicle will have a zero blood alcohol limit. The limits for adults remain unchanged, although professional drivers will be required to carry anti-start breathalyzers in transport vehicles from July 6 2022.

• The 20-kilometre-per-hour margin for overtaking on secondary roads is abolished. This is one of the measures that has generated the most controversy.

• Personal mobility vehicles, including electric scooters, and bicycles may not circulate on the sidewalks. In addition, scooter users will lose four points from their licence for not wearing a helmet.

• Using, or simply holding, mobile phone devices while driving entails the loss of 6 points.

• Throwing objects that could cause fires or accidents onto the road or in its vicinity will also be penalized with 6 driving license points.

• Overtaking, endangering or hindering cyclists or not leaving the minimum gap of 1.5 meters will also be punished with 6 points.

• It is forbidden to carry radar detectors and inhibitors in the vehicle, even if they are not used.

• Four points will be deducted for not wearing a seatbelt or incorrectly using protective restraints for children.

• Drivers who ignore restrictions in low emission zones will now be charged with a “serious offence” and can be fined up to 200 euros.

• Motorcyclists are permitted to use an approved hands-free device in their helmets for communication or navigation purposes, provided that it does not affect road safety.

• People caught cheating on driving exams by using unauthorised communication devices will face a 500 euro fine. The applicant will also be prohibited from taking the test again for six months.

• A novel feature is that motorists who sign up for safe and efficient driving courses can gain back two previously lost licence points.