UK expats and tourists face £170 fine as Spain introduces new driving law changes

British expats and tourists could soon risk new fines when travelling abroad as Spain introduces sweeping driving law changes.

Thousands of Britons are still expected to make an autumn and winter getaway this year, with many likely heading to Spain to indulge in the good weather.

However, new driving law changes being introduced by the Spanish government could result in them being fined for standard manoeuvres.

From October 1, 2026, changes will be made to traffic lights across the country, following a Royal Decree confirmed in June.

It stated that councils will no longer be able to show a flashing amber light while pedestrians have a green figure.

Any driver caught travelling through a flashing amber light at a crossing when a pedestrian is walking across could face a punishment.

Motorists who are cited for the issue could face a fine of €200 (£171.40) and four points on their licence, according to Connexion France.

The new traffic rules will apply whether pedestrians are on the crossing or not, with drivers being urged to be cautious when waiting.

Most European nations share information about traffic infractions, suggesting that British drivers could still be fined even if they do not live in Spain.

Spain's Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) also outlined other changes to improve protections for vulnerable road users.

Riders travelling by personal mobility vehicle (PMV), bicycle, moped or motorcycle must now always wear a helmet and reflective vest.

Similarly, motorcyclists must use gloves on urban roads and closed footwear on all types of roads. Riders also need to have a helmet that has been approved, rather than certified.

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Riders of personal mobility vehicles must be 15 years of age, and the use of a protective helmet and reflective vest at night or in low visibility has been made mandatory.

The transport department also ruled that emergency lanes are regulated when traffic is "hampered by snow".

Despite this, overtaking remains banned and traffic will only be allowed in the right-hand lane during extreme weather events.

The DGT stated: "The new regulation adapts to the change in the vision of mobility that has taken place in the last 20 years, in which there has been a shift from an approach focused on the road and the vehicle to one focused on people and urban environments."

Recent data from the DGT showed that 240 people were killed in traffic accidents over the summer, prompting action from the government.

Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska announced that the government would promote legislation to reduce the permitted blood alcohol level for drivers to 0.2g per litre of blood.

Over the summer, 54 motorcyclists were killed, which is 18 fewer than during the same period in 2025.