Lorraine Williamson
Spain’s Council of Ministers has approved a major update to its road signs regulations for 2025. This is the first overhaul in more than 20 years.
The new system will come into effect on 1 July 2025. It responds to changes in transport habits, technology, and growing calls for sustainability and inclusive design.
Adapting to new transport needs
The revision updates the General Traffic Regulations, originally established in 2003. It has been developed by the Ministries of Interior, Transport and Sustainable Mobility, Industry and Tourism, and Defence. The new catalogue standardises road signs nationwide, covering vertical signs, markings, temporary signals, and traffic lights.
The update aims to reduce confusion for drivers. With increasing information on the roads, signs must be simple and universally understood. Therefore, the designs follow international standards set by the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals.
Redesigned symbols and gender-neutral signs
Many familiar symbols have been redesigned. Pictograms for railways, bicycles, and pedestrians are now clearer and easier to read. The update also removes gender-specific images, creating a more inclusive visual language.
The reform introduces new signs for modern transport options, such as electric scooters and other personal mobility vehicles. Service station signs now include alternative fuels. Furthermore, parking signs have been redesigned to make urban driving simpler. Temporary and construction signs have also been updated. Obsolete signs will be removed to avoid confusion.
Phased rollout and transition period
Although the law takes effect in July, physical sign replacements will happen gradually. Changes will be coordinated with regular maintenance schedules to limit disruption and reduce costs. Obsolete signs must be fully removed within a year.
The updated signs will not immediately appear in driving theory tests. A transition period of at least three months will allow training materials to be updated. Therefore, learners will have enough time to study the new signs.
System built for future updates
The reform gives the Interior and Transport ministries joint authority to update the sign catalogue by ministerial order. This allows Spain’s road signage to adapt quickly to future developments in transport and infrastructure.
The new catalogue defines all shapes, designs, colours, meanings, and sizes. Consequently, it ensures greater consistency and clarity for road users across Spain.
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