Changes to Rules for Two-Wheeled Road Users in 2025

Traffic laws are constantly changing in an attempt to make the roads safer for all, and for the more vulnerable, it is as important to protect yourselves as much as others, and so, in 2025, we are expecting a number of new rules to be brought into force.

Bicycles

Rules are starting to work their way through the legislative process that would allow cyclists more freedom, and safety, by allowing them to ride in the centre of the lane in more locations in towns and cities and giving greater security when being overtaken outside of towns.

On interurban roads, motor vehicles will have to reduce their speed to overtake cyclists, whilst offering more distance to pass.

For their part, cyclists will have to always wear a helmet. The current exceptions will be removed.

Motorbikes

Motorcyclists, one of the most vulnerable groups on the road, will also be subject to new regulations in 2025. Among the most significant changes is the mandatory use of a full-face or modular helmet on interurban roads, as well as the use of gloves and closed footwear on all types of roads. These measures aim to minimise serious injuries in the event of incidents.

In addition, it is planned to allow motorcycles to use the hard shoulder in congestion situations, a proposal that is in the process of being approved as a royal decree. This change could improve the flow of traffic and reduce the risks associated with traffic jams.

Another new feature is the introduction of mandatory courses for those who wish to drive motorcycles with a class B licence. Currently, this permit must have been held for three years, but with the new regulations it will also be necessary to complete a course to strengthen motorcycle handling skills.

Electric Scooters

Personal Mobility Vehicles (VMP), more commonly known by one of the most popular types of this vehicle, the electric scooter, are also included in the DGT reforms.

Although a lot of legislation exists, it had been largely left in the hands of local municipal councils to decide what to implement, resulting in a lot of confusion and different levels of safety being afforded around the country. From 2025, the use of helmets will be mandatory for all users, as well as the registration of these vehicles in an official registry.

Another of the measures highlighted is the establishment of a minimum age of 16 years for driving these vehicles, seeking to guarantee greater safety for both drivers and pedestrians.

Implementation

We must wait for the publication of all of these elements before being able to confirm which are to be fully implemented, or which may undergo changes before they are enforceable, but the rules are changing, and the intention, as always, is to make the roads safer for all.