From January 1, 2026, Spanish drivers are required to use modern V16 lamps with a geolocation module, replacing traditional warning triangles. The new regulations aim to drastically reduce the number of collisions during emergency stops on highways. Road authorities have already started issuing the first fines of 200 euros for lacking the required equipment, sparking a wave of interest in purchasing certified devices.

Full Digitalization of Safety

Mandatory V16 lamps must have an integrated GPS module and a SIM card to transmit the vehicle's location directly to the central traffic management system DGT 3.0.

High Financial Penalties

Drivers traveling without a homologated device risk a fine of 200 euros, which is meant to discipline owners of older vehicles.

International Mobility Issue

Spain is the only country applying this requirement, so drivers traveling around Europe must still carry traditional triangles to meet the requirements of other countries.

The Spanish DGT has introduced a groundbreaking change in traffic regulations, making Spain the only country in Europe to completely abandon warning triangles in favor of digital technology. From January 1, 2026, every vehicle traveling on Spanish roads must be equipped with a V16 lamp. This is a device that emits a flashing yellow light, mounted on the vehicle's roof without the need to exit the cabin. A key element of the new regulation is the geolocation requirement – the device must transmit data about the location of the broken-down vehicle to the DGT 3.0 cloud, allowing immediate warning of other road users via navigation and variable message signs. Traditional warning triangles were introduced into widespread use in Europe in the 1960s and 1970s, but statistics have shown that the moment of setting them up is one of the most dangerous stages of handling a breakdown on a highway. Despite the introduction of the new obligation, experts advise caution when disposing of old accessories. Spain remains isolated in this restrictive policy, meaning drivers traveling outside the country must still carry a classic triangle to avoid penalties in other European Union states. Currently, there is increased market activity, with prices of certified lamps hovering around 26-30 euros. Failure to have a functional lamp after the regulation implementation date results in a fine of 200 euros. Traffic police are already conducting checks to see if previously purchased devices meet the latest communication standards, as older V16 lamp models without a GPS module are also no longer recognized as legal substitutes.

200 euros — is the fine for lacking a functional V16 lamp Evolution of Emergency Signaling: Safety: Driver must exit the car → Installation without leaving the vehicle; Connectivity: None (visual signaling only) → Automatic DGT notification; Visibility Range: Limited by terrain → Up to 1 kilometer in all directions