New motorcycle licence rules coming to Spain by the end of 2024
DGT Spain has confirmed that new drivers will have to pass a course to ride 125cc motorbikes
Spain's General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) is set to introduce a mandatory course for drivers with a B permit who wish to drive motorcycles up to 125cc. According to the head of the DGT, Pere Navarro, the new licence requirement is expected to be implemented by the end of the year.
Speaking in Santander on Tuesday March 12, Navarro revealed that work is already underway to introduce the course, which will apply to new drivers only. This means that those who have already driven a motorbike with a B permit will be unaffected by the new measure.
Up until now, anyone who held a full driving licence for more than three years was also allowed to ride a motorbike up to 125cc. But by the end of 2024, this will be rescinded any anyone who doesn’t already hold a specific motorcycle licence will need to take a new test to continue riding this size bike.
Defending the decision to impose the course, Navarro pointed out that it is already in place in France and argued that the old rules were more of a mobility measure than a road safety one.
It was fundamentally designed for drivers in big cities to "leave the car and switch to the scooter,” he added.
However, Navarro acknowledged that some town councils have requested that the DGT establish a minimum course requirement for drivers seeking to operate a 125cc motorbike with a B license. The aim is to ensure that drivers have some knowledge of how to handle such vehicles safely before hitting the roads.
The traffic authorities also plan to force motorcyclists to wear a full face or modular helmet, as well as approved motorcycle gloves, but it’s not yet clear if these rules will be introduced at the same time as the licence requirements.
If you're concerned about how these changes might impact you or if you simply want to stay up-to-date on the latest developments and requirements, reach out to Heniam & Associates. Their dedicated team is closely monitoring the situation and will provide you with timely updates on what these changes mean for you.
Find all the latest motoring and travel news here or join our Driving in Spain Facebook group for regular updates
Image: Freepik
