Motorcycle helmets and licences in Spain (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Riders and passengers must wear an approved helmet on all roads, and motorcycles must keep the dipped beam on by day. Minimum ages are 16 (A1), 18 (A2) and 20 for category A after two years on A2.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Helmet required for the riderRiding a motorcycle; Motorcycle | Yes [1] |
| Helmet required for a passengerRiding a motorcycle; Motorcycle | Yes [1] |
| Minimum age, category A1 (light motorcycle)Riding a motorcycle; Category A1 (light motorcycle) | 16 years [2] |
| Minimum age, category A2Riding a motorcycle; Category A2 (medium motorcycle) | 18 years [2] |
| Minimum age, category A (direct access)Riding a motorcycle; Category A (unrestricted motorcycle) | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Minimum age, category A (after two years on A2)Riding a motorcycle; Category A (unrestricted motorcycle) | 20 years [2] |
| Dipped beam or daytime running light required by dayRiding a motorcycle; Motorcycle | Yes [1] |
Notes
- Riders and passengers of vehicles with self-protection structures and seat belts, as recorded in the technical inspection card, are exempt and must use the seat belt.
- Article 5.1.a) allows class A only to holders of an A2 permit of at least two years. The text read does not mention direct access.
- Motorcycles must keep the dipped beam on by day on any road covered by traffic law.
Sources
- Agencia Estatal Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE): Real Decreto 1428/2003, de 21 de noviembre, por el que se aprueba el Reglamento General de Circulación (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Agencia Estatal Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE): Real Decreto 818/2009, de 8 de mayo, por el que se aprueba el Reglamento General de Conductores (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.