The major spanish cities are currently facing the challenge of managing traffic, pollution, and the growth in travel due to urban mobility. Faced with this challenge, the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) has put forward various proposals aimed at transforming the way we move around urban environments and tourist areas. These are measures focused on creating a more efficient, safer and environmentally friendly traffic which are already generating debate among both citizens and regional and municipal governments.
La DGT has begun the analysis of very ambitious proposals that seek reduce congestion and prioritize sustainabilityAmong the most notable is the possible mandatory to have at least two occupants per car in certain metropolitan areas, inspired by models of HOV (High Occupancy Vehicle) lanes already implemented in other European countries. In addition, restrictions such as limiting the number of vehicles per household and establishing daily charges for non-resident vehicles in congested areas such as the Balearic Islands are being considered.
New measures: carpooling, daily tolls, and per-unit limits
Among the priorities of the DGT is the promoting car sharing. A minimum of two occupants per vehicle is being considered in areas of Madrid and other cities, an idea that would be supported by the implementation of exclusive lanes for high-occupancy cars. To meet this requirement, systems for sensors and radars capable of counting the number of passengers, a technology that is already working in nations such as France.
Another of the great proposals is the limitation of registered vehicles per householdThe goal here is to restrict the number of cars allowed in residences, although exceptions are contemplated: emergencies, people with reduced mobility, and residents who can adequately justify their request.
In the particular case of the Balearic Islands, some of these ideas have already materialized, especially during periods of high tourist influx. In places like Ibiza and Formentera, non-resident cars must pay a daily fee—usually one euro per day—and may even be subject to time restrictions and access controls. For its part, Mallorca is considering applying much higher rates, adjusted according to the level of polluting emissions of the vehicle, which can vary between 35 and 150 euros.
Adapted signage and new sanctions
The DGT has also announced the traffic sign update to adapt them to new urban mobility systems. Starting July 1, 2025, the official sign catalog includes clearer pictograms, references to personal mobility vehicles (such as electric scooters), and warnings of electric car charging stations. The physical deployment of these signs will be gradual to facilitate the adaptation of drivers and driving schools.
Among the most talked about new features is the S-51b signal or "signal 2+", which indicates a lane reserved for vehicles with at least two occupants. Driving in these lanes with only one person in the car is a serious infraction punishable by a fine of 200 eurosExceptions exist for vehicles such as taxis, licensed VTCs, certified disabled vehicles, and cars with a ZERO environmental label.
Furthermore, the implementation of Low Emission Zones (LEZ) In municipalities with more than 50.000 inhabitants—or 20.000 with high pollution levels—the circulation of the most polluting vehicles is restricted. Accessing these areas without the appropriate authorization can result in fines of another 200 euros, according to DGT regulations and the Climate Change and Energy Transition Law.
Impact on daily life and exceptions
These proposals, although still in study and analysis phase, imply a significant change in citizens' travel planning. The restrictions are accompanied by information campaigns and the improvement of alternative means of transport, such as public transport and the promotion of electric vehicles and car-sharing systems.
Regular car users could perceive these regulations as a limitation, so the DGT and the regional governments They seek to balance environmental protection and quality of life without placing excessive obstacles to daily, work-related, or tourist mobility. They also contemplate exceptions for emergencies, special needs and residents in affected areas.
These lines of work of the DGT reflect the European trend towards a more rational and sustainable urban mobilityAlthough there are no definitive dates, it is clear that future regulations will focus on reducing the number of vehicles in circulation and transforming the automotive fleet, prioritizing sustainability and social well-being.
