HEALTHPLAN MAGAZINE

Riding a Motorcycle in Spain (2025) – Updated Rules, Regulations & Safety Laws

Riding a motorcycle in Spain offers breathtaking landscapes and year-round sunshine – but before you hit the road, it's crucial to know the laws. In 2025, Spain has introduced new regulations affecting licensing, safety gear, and road rules.

In this guide, you'll learn:

• What license you need to ride different motorcycles.

• Updated 2025 rules on helmets, safety gear & intercoms.

• Speed limits, ITV inspections & motorcycle road tax.

• How to avoid fines & penalties.

What Motorcycles, Mopeds and Scooters Can I Ride?

The driving license you hold determines what type of motorcycles you can legally ride in Spain. There are four different classes of motorcycle licenses:

• AM License: Mopeds up to 50cc (from age 15).

• A1 License: Motorcycles up to 125cc (from age 16).

• A2 License: Motorcycles up to 47 hp (from age 18).

• A License: Motorcycles of any power (from age 20, after holding A2 for 2 years).

For full details on motorcycle licenses, requirements, and how to obtain one, visit the DGT Traffic Authority Official Page.

New Safety Regulations (2025)

• Emergency Lane Use: Motorcyclists can now legally use emergency lanes in traffic if not exceeding 30 km/h.

• Mandatory Protective Gear: Gloves, long-sleeved jackets, and trousers are now recommended by law (previously only helmets were required).

• Helmet Law: All riders and passengers must wear an ECE 22.05-approved helmet. Failure to comply results in a €200 fine and the loss of three license points.

Carrying Passengers

• Passengers must be at least 12 years old (or 7+ if the main rider is a parent/guardian).

• Motorcycles must have an appropriate seat and footrests for passengers.

• Both rider and passenger must wear approved helmets.

Required Documentation

• Valid driving license.

• Vehicle registration documents.

• Proof of insurance.

• ITV (Inspección Técnica de Vehículos) certificate, if applicable.

For more details on ITV inspections, check our ITV Inspection Guide.

It’s also advisable to carry a high-visibility vest in case of breakdowns.

Motorcycle Speed Limits

• Urban Roads: 50 km/h.

• Non-Urban Roads: 90 km/h.

• Motorways: 120 km/h (mopeds not allowed).

Road Tax and ITV Inspections

• All motorcycles must pay an annual road tax (IVTM).

• Motorcycles are exempt from ITV for the first four years, then require inspections every two years.

• Mopeds are exempt for three years, then require ITV every two years.

For full details on Spanish road tax (IVTM), check our guide here: Car Road Tax in Spain – An Expat’s Guide.

Insurance Requirements

• A minimum of third-party liability insurance is mandatory for all motorcycles and mopeds.

• For expats or non-residents, our private health insurance plans cover motorcycle accidents and road emergencies.

Intercoms and Headsets

• Using intercoms and headsets is permitted as long as they do not obstruct the rider’s ability to hear external sounds.

Parking Regulations

• Parking rules for motorcycles vary by city.

• It is generally prohibited to park on sidewalks unless explicitly allowed.

• Always check local signage and regulations to avoid fines.

By staying informed and adhering to these guidelines, you can enjoy safe and lawful motorcycling experiences throughout Spain.