Spain's coastal roads and mountain passes offer incredible routes, but January 2026 brought new legal requirements for motorcyclists. Now, freedom on the road comes with great responsibility.

This guide explains everything users need to know about road safety. You'll learn how to interpret the CE marking and EN standards, as the DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic) strictly enforces these regulations. We'll also cover safety standards for helmets, technical clothing, gloves, boots, and other protective gear.

Meanwhile, we invite you to explore our extensive collection of EN and CE certified motorcycle clothing and equipment.

Types of safety standards in Spain and Europe

Europe sets motorcycle safety standards that apply in all EU countries, including Spain. These standards guarantee the protection of motorcyclists. The 2026 regulatory update focuses on better helmets, certified protective gear, and increased visibility.

Helmet standards (ECE 22.06)

Every new helmet sold in Europe must comply with the ECE 22.06 standard. This replaced the older version 22.05 and introduced significant improvements.

The new standard assesses how helmets handle rotational impacts. These twisting forces during a crash can cause serious brain injuries. Now, helmets are tested at 12 additional random points on the shell. This ensures protection against impacts from any angle.

Manufacturers must test helmets with their accessories installed. Intercoms and sun visors cannot compromise the helmet's protection.

Protective clothing (CE marked)

Under EU law, all motorcycle gear is considered personal protective equipment. You will see the CE marking on approved items.

Jackets and trousers comply with EN 17092. AAA-rated gear offers maximum protection for track riding. A-rated gear is suitable for urban riding. These ratings help you choose the right protection for your riding style.

The gloves need EN 13594 certification. This assesses their abrasion resistance and whether the seams will hold in case of an accident.

The boots must comply with EN 13634 standards for ankle support and impact protection.

Additional regulations of Spain (DGT)

Spain's traffic authority has added additional safety requirements for motorcycle riding in 2026 .

The use of approved gloves and closed-toe shoes is mandatory on all types of roads. Sandals and fingerless gloves are no longer permitted.

Driving schools must provide airbag vests for students and instructors during driving practice.

EN and CE certifications

The CE and EN labels tell you whether your motorcycle gear will actually protect you in the event of an accident. Spain follows European Union safety standards, and from 2026 onwards, these certifications are more important than ever. Every motorcyclist should understand what these markings mean.

CE marking: The legal approval of your equipment

CE stands for Conformité Européenne . This marking demonstrates that the manufacturer has followed EU safety standards for protective equipment.

Equipment without the CE marking is simply ordinary clothing. It has not been tested to withstand accidents. Spanish authorities do not consider it protective equipment. Wearing uncertified clothing can affect your insurance claim after an accident. Furthermore, traffic police may issue you a fine at safety checkpoints.

EN Standards: Test Results

The CE marking indicates that the equipment is legal; the EN standards show how well it actually performs. Different types of equipment have different EN tests:

• EN 17092: Jackets and trousers

• EN 13594: Gloves

• EN 13634: Boots

• EN 1621: Protective gear for elbows, knees, shoulders and back

The laboratories subject these items to rigorous testing. They check how long the fabric withstands sliding on pavement, whether the seams break upon impact, tear resistance, and other crucial safety tests for motorcycle gear.

What are protection classes (from AAA to C)?

The jackets and trousers carry EN 17092 labels with class classifications. Here's what each one means:

AAA Class: Maximum protection for high-speed riding and competition. These garments offer the best abrasion resistance, but are heavier and stiffer.

AA Class: The ideal choice for touring riders. This equipment balances robust protection with the comfort needed for long journeys through the mountains of Spain.

Class A: Suitable for urban riding. It's a lighter, more breathable gear that performs well in Spain's hot summers, providing basic protection.

Class B: Protects against abrasions (asphalt burns) but does not have pockets for impact protection.

Class C: Holds protective gear in place but does not prevent slipping. Used as a mesh layer to be worn under other clothing.

Levels of protection of the protections (armor)

The protective elements located inside your equipment (on shoulders, elbows, knees and back) are classified according to the EN 1621 standard:

• Level 1: Basic protection. Allows a maximum force of 35 kN to reach your body.

• Level 2: Better protection. It only allows a maximum force of 20 kN. Due to the high-speed highways in Spain, investing in Level 2 protection is worthwhile.

Why this is important in 2026

Spain's traffic authorities are becoming stricter. Regulations coming into effect in 2026 require certified equipment. The new glove law specifically mandates EN 13594 certification.

Choosing equipment with CE certification and the appropriate EN ratings serves two purposes: you comply with Spanish law and, more importantly, you ensure that your equipment has proven its effectiveness in real accident conditions.

Always check the labels inside before buying. Look for the small book icon and the EN number. If the labels are missing, the device isn't truly protective. Your safety depends on these certifications, not advertising promises.

Let's briefly look at the EN standards for jackets and trousers, gloves, boots and protectors for elbows, knees, shoulders and back.

EN 2026 standards for motorcycle clothing and accessories

Europe uses specific standards to test and certify motorcycle protective gear. These standards ensure that your equipment will actually work in the event of an accident.

Jackets and trousers (EN 17092)

EN 17092 is the standard for motorcycle jackets and trousers. It classifies equipment from AAA to A. The rating depends on two factors: the fabric's abrasion resistance and the strength of the seams.

Class AAA offers maximum protection , while Class A provides basic protection. Tests demonstrate how long your gear will withstand sliding on pavement.

Gloves (EN 13594)

The gloves must pass the tests of the EN 13594 standard. Laboratories verify tear resistance and cuff length.

Level 1 gloves offer basic protection. Level 2 gloves must include rigid knuckle protectors. This additional reinforcement prevents the knuckles from fracturing during an impact.

Boots (EN 13634)

The boots need EN 13634 certification. The tests check several aspects: Can the boot withstand torsional forces? Will it survive slipping on asphalt? Can it protect against cuts and impacts?

All these factors determine whether the boots meet the standard.

Internal protections (EN 1621)

The protective gear (armor) in your equipment complies with EN 1621. Part 1 covers elbow, knee, and shoulder protectors. Part 2 is specific to back protectors.

Protective gear is classified as Level 1 or Level 2. Level 2 is better, as it significantly reduces the force that reaches your body during an accident. This difference can help prevent bone fractures.

How to check your equipment's EN certification

Look for the CE marking, which has a small leaflet icon, on your gear's label. This confirms that the manufacturer has met all the technical requirements. The label should also show which EN standard the garment complies with.

These certifications are not just paperwork; they prove that your equipment has been tested and is effective for Spanish roads in 2026.

2026 Update of Motorcycle Safety Standards in Spain

Starting in January 2026, the DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic) is implementing significant safety reforms. The most critical update is the nationwide requirement to wear certified protective gloves (EN 13594) and closed-toe shoes on all intercity roads; wearing flip-flops or sandals can now result in hefty fines.

Although airbag vests are now mandatory for driving school training and exams, they remain highly recommended—but not yet mandatory—for general road use. Finally, all medical exemptions for not wearing a helmet have been eliminated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are motorcycle gloves mandatory for everyone in Spain?

Yes. From January 2026, the DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic) requires all motorcycle and moped riders to wear certified protective gloves (compliant with EN 13594) when riding on intercity roads. Failure to do so may result in a fine and the loss of points on your license.

Can I still use my old ECE 22.05 helmet in 2026?

Yes, you can legally continue using an ECE 22.05 helmet as long as it's in good condition. However, all new helmets sold in Spain must now comply with the stricter ECE 22.06 standard, which offers better protection against rotational impacts.

What happens if my equipment doesn't have the CE marking?

If your gear lacks the CE marking, it's technically considered "fashion clothing" rather than protective equipment. In the event of an accident, insurance companies in Spain can use the lack of certified equipment to reduce your compensation or deny personal injury claims.

Is an airbag vest mandatory for all motorcyclists in Spain?

Currently, airbag vests are only mandatory for driving students and instructors during driving lessons and exams. The DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic) strongly recommends them for the general public, but they are not yet a mandatory requirement for everyday use.

Will open-face (Jet-type) helmets be banned?

Although the DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic) has proposed promoting the use of full-face or modular helmets for greater safety, there is no official ban on open-face helmets until early 2026. However, they must be "properly fastened" at all times to avoid fines.

What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 protections?

Both are safe, but Level 2 protection (EN 1621) is superior. It absorbs more energy and transmits less force to your body during an impact. Level 2 is highly recommended for driving on highways or intercity roads at high speeds.

Does the "closed footwear" rule mean I need professional racing boots?

Not necessarily, but you must wear footwear that fully covers your foot and ankle. Sandals, flip-flops, or poorly fitting shoes are now strictly prohibited. For maximum safety and compliance, look for boots with EN 13634 certification.

Can I use an intercom or a sun visor with an ECE 22.06 helmet?

Yes, but under standard 22.06, helmets are tested with these accessories installed. To comply with the standard, you must use accessories that the manufacturer has officially approved for that specific helmet model.

Are there still medical exemptions for not wearing a helmet?

No. With the 2026 update, the DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic) has eliminated all medical exemptions. All drivers and passengers of motorcycles or mopeds must wear an approved helmet, regardless of prior medical certificates.

What are the fines for not carrying the mandatory equipment by 2026?

Riding without the required equipment (such as certified gloves or a fastened helmet) usually carries a €200 fine and can result in the loss of up to 4 points on your Spanish driving license.