New DGT rules: gloves and closed-toe footwear now mandatory, jet helmets still legal

The reform of the General Traffic Regulations, approved through Royal Decree 518/2026, introduces some of the most significant changes for motorcycle users in decades.

The new measures bring in equipment requirements, regulate new options for riding during traffic tailbacks, and clarify the standards that protective helmets must meet.

– Gloves Now Mandatory

One of the most notable changes is the new requirement to wear protective gloves when riding on interurban roads. The rule applies to both riders and passengers, turning into law a recommendation that traffic authorities and industry associations had been pushing for years. The aim is to reduce the severity of hand injuries, since hands are among the body parts most commonly affected in a fall.

– Closed-Toe Footwear

The reform also makes closed-toe footwear compulsory at all times, ruling out riding a motorcycle in sandals, flip-flops, or any other type of open shoe. Although the regulation doesn't require dedicated motorcycle boots, it does call for a minimum level of foot protection.

– Hard Shoulder Riding

Another key change allows motorcycles to use the right-hand hard shoulder when there are traffic tailbacks, provided the road has the appropriate signage, speeds don't exceed 30 km/h (about 19 mph), and the maneuver can be carried out without putting other road users at risk. This has long been a demand from the motorcycling community, aimed at reducing the risk of rear-end collisions when bikes are stuck between larger vehicles in traffic jams.

It's worth noting, however, that the Catalan Traffic Service—which holds devolved powers over mobility and road safety in Catalonia—has firmly opposed this measure and has already warned that it won't be applied on roads within the region. As a result, riding on the hard shoulder will remain banned there under all circumstances.

– Approved Jet Helmets

It's worth stressing that the amendment to the General Traffic Regulations doesn't ban any type of helmet, meaning jet and modular helmets remain perfectly legal.
What the new rule does require is that all users wear helmets approved under UNECE Regulation No. 22.


– Keep your reflective vest within reach

Motorcycles must always carry a high-visibility reflective vest in the top box, the panniers or another easily accessible spot. Riders must put it on whenever they leave their vehicle and step onto the carriageway or the shoulder of an intercity road, for example after a breakdown. In addition, anyone who rides a motorcycle or moped for work (delivery riders, couriers, traffic officers...) must wear the vest while on duty, on any type of road.


– Headphones and mobile phones: what's allowed and what isn't

If you like riding with music or sat nav in your helmet, it's worth knowing where the rules stand. Riding while wearing any kind of audio helmet, headphones or similar device connected to equipment that plays or receives sound is banned. You also can't use a mobile phone or any other communication system while riding.

There are two exceptions. The first covers certified or approved wireless devices built into the protective helmet, which may be used only for intercom or navigation purposes and only as long as they don't compromise road safety. The second applies when communication is completely hands-free and doesn't involve helmets, headphones or similar devices.

Come visit us at our Official Dealerships—we'll help you find the gear that's right for you.