New V16 Emergency Beacon Law in Spain: What Drivers Must Know Before January 2026

From January 2026, every driver in Spain will face a major change in road-safety regulations. The classic red warning triangle—something we’ve all had in our boot for years—will no longer be accepted as the primary emergency-signalling device. Instead, motorists will be legally required to carry a DGT-approved, connected V16 emergency beacon.

But with the deadline approaching, the market is already being flooded with cheap and non-compliant devices. Buying the wrong one could mean a €200 fine and, more importantly, reduced safety during a breakdown.

This complete guide explains what the new V16 rule means, how to choose a legal beacon, how to identify fake or unapproved devices, and which vehicles must comply.

What Is the New V16 Emergency Beacon?

A V16 beacon is a small, magnetic emergency light placed on top of your vehicle to warn other road users that you’ve broken down. The new 2026 version goes far beyond the old flashing lights sold in past years.

To be legal from January 1, 2026, the beacon must be a connected V16 device, meaning:

• It contains a built-in SIM card
• It automatically sends your geolocation to the DGT 3.0 traffic platform
• It alerts authorities and nearby drivers in real time
• It meets strict lighting and visibility standards

This connectivity is designed to improve roadside safety, reduce accidents, and eliminate the need for drivers to walk onto the road to place warning triangles.

Why Warning Triangles Are Being Replaced

Warning triangles have long been considered a risk, as drivers must exit the vehicle—often on motorways or in poor visibility—to place them 50 metres away. Since 2023, the DGT has advised motorists to avoid using them unless absolutely necessary.

The connected V16 emergency beacon removes that danger. You simply open the door a few centimetres, place the magnetised light on the roof, and you’re done.

How to Spot a Fake or Non-Compliant V16 Beacon

As the law approaches, many low-cost devices (including old stock and non-connected lights) are being sold online and even in supermarkets. Unfortunately, many of these do NOT meet 2026 legal requirements, despite what the sellers claim.

Here’s how to avoid wasting money—and avoid a €200 penalty.

1. Be wary of very cheap prices

If a beacon costs under €20, it is almost certainly not the connected, DGT-approved version required for 2026. These bargain lights are usually older models without integrated connectivity.

2. Check the mandatory technical specifications

A legal V16 beacon for 2026 must have:

• 360° visibility from 1 km in all conditions
• 30+ minutes battery life while flashing
• A built-in SIM card with geolocation active for at least 12 years
• An official DGT homologation certificate

If any of this is missing, the device is not compliant.

3. Verify the DGT homologation code

This is the only 100% reliable way to confirm if a beacon is legal.

A genuine V16 beacon must display a code that starts with:

• LCOE + 12 digits, or
• IDIADA PC + 8 digits

Then go to the official DGT website and confirm that the code appears exactly as listed. If it’s not on the list, the beacon is not approved—no matter what the seller claims. You can check the DGT list here

Which Vehicles Must Carry a V16 Beacon From 2026?

The connected V16 beacon is compulsory for:

• Private cars
• Vans and goods vehicles
• Lorries
• Buses and minibuses
• Multi-purpose and mixed-use vehicles
• Non-special vehicle combinations

Motorcycles, mopeds, agricultural vehicles, and special-purpose vehicles are currently exempt, although the DGT still recommends carrying one for safety.

Where to Buy a Legal V16 Beacon

Experts are advising drivers to purchase only from reputable retailers and avoid suspiciously cheap offers or unknown brands online. Even well-known marketplaces are mixing approved and unapproved models, so always check:

• The homologation code
• The official DGT approved list
• Seller reviews and certifications

Spending an extra few euros now is far cheaper than a fine— and far better than risking low visibility during a breakdown.

Final Advice Before January 2026

As the new law comes into force, searches for “best V16 beacon Spain”, “legal V16 emergency light 2026”, and “DGT-approved connected V16” are skyrocketing. Make sure you’re prepared:

✔ Buy early—stock shortages are expected
✔ Verify the device on the official DGT website
✔ Avoid bargain prices that seem too good to be true
✔ Ensure your beacon is the connected version required by law

A compliant V16 beacon is now one of the most important road-safety tools you can carry. Don’t wait until the last minute—get a legal, approved model and stay safe (and avoid fines) in 2026.