Source: Euro Weekly News, Guide to Canary Islands

From January 2, 2026, owners of e-scooters in Spain will be subject to fresh rules outlined by the country’s traffic authority, the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT). The rules on personal mobility vehicles (PMVs), which include e-scooters, mandate registration and rider insurance, control who can manufacture and sell them, and dictate which models are allowed on public roads.

The changes align e-scooters more closely to cars and motorbikes, and are reported to make it easier for authorities to identify responsibility in the event of accidents or misuse, or in the distribution of fines.

Registration and insurance

PMV owners must ensure that their vehicle:

• Is registered with the DGT to qualify for legal circulation
• Have an official circulation certificate, confirming that the vehicle meets all technical standards
• Display a visible identification tag or licence plate which is linked to the National Vehicle Register

The registration information will include key data about the owner’s identity and compulsory insurance details, and the vehicle’s manufacturer, brand, model and certification laboratory details. The certification process will involve testing in DGT-authorised laboratories; after approval, manufacturers will be allowed to register the specific model and display a “DGT certified” label.

Ownership changes will also now be recorded, in the same way as for cars and motorbikes.

Rider rules

• Civil liability insurance must be in place
• Helmet use is compulsory
• Reflective vests must be worn
• E-scooters can only be ridden by one person – no passengers are allowed
• A speed of 25 km/h must not be exceeded, and any lower speed limit restrictions must be observed
• The use of headphones and mobile phones while riding is prohibited