Royal Decree 518/2026, which amends the General Traffic Regulations, came into force on 1 October 2026 and since then Xàbia Local Police have expanded the presence of officers tasked with verifying that electric scooter users comply with the new requirements, with checks carried out at various points across the municipality.
The regulation, promoted by the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT), establishes that only people aged over 15 may operate these vehicles and requires riding with an approved or certified protective helmet. In addition, it requires scooters to be registered in the corresponding DGT register and compulsory third-party liability insurance to be taken out.
Among the traffic restrictions, the regulation prohibits riding on pavements and carrying more than one occupant, as well as the use of headphones or mobile phones whilst riding. Speed is limited to 25 kilometres per hour in all cases.
For night-time journeys or in poor visibility, the regulations require carrying a light or reflective element visible from 150 metres away. From 1 October 2027, this requirement will be tightened and the vehicle's lights must remain on during the day as well.
Vehicle certification
According to the DGT, scooters put up for sale from 22 January 2024 must have certification as standard. Earlier models without it may continue to be ridden until 22 January 2027, the deadline of the transitional scheme provided for by the regulations.
