New e-scooter rules require helmets, reflective vests and a minimum age of 15

Helmet use for e-scooter riders will no longer depend on the rules of individual Spanish cities. From October 1, the requirement will apply across the country to e-scooters and other personal mobility vehicles, including Segways, hoverboards and electric unicycles.

The reform also requires riders to carry a reflective vest and wear it at night or in low visibility. Professionals using these vehicles must wear one at all times. Vehicle lights must be on from sunset to sunrise, and whenever visibility is poor. From October 1, 2027, lights will have to remain on around the clock. Until then, riders have an adjustment period, although failing to use lights when required can result in a €200 fine.

The Directorate-General for Traffic has set the minimum age at 15. That is lower than the age limit in some cities, including Barcelona and Valencia, where local rules set it at 16. Barcelona officials told EFE they will study how to apply the national regulation and whether to retain the stricter local limit.

Riders must also use their arms to signal maneuvers to other road users. The article cites users who support tighter age restrictions after personal accidents. Adonis said children aged 13 or 14 should not ride because it is dangerous. Douglas, showing injuries from a crash, said: “A fall at thirty kilometers per hour does a lot of damage.”

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A fall at thirty kilometers per hour does a lot of damage.