Changes in Over a Hundred Traffic Signs You Should Know About to Avoid Fines

Since July 1, 2025, when the new General Traffic Regulations (Royal Decree 465/2025) came into effect, updating the official catalogue of traffic signs for the first time in decades, drivers are legally required to comply with all new catalogue signs, even if they have not yet been physically replaced. "From the moment the reform is published and comes into force, all drivers are obliged to know and comply with the new signs, and cannot claim ignorance," explains Andrea Gullo, a traffic sanctions expert at Pyramid Consulting, to this newspaper.

Furthermore, "the same penalties for violations arising from non-compliance with the signs remain in place. For example, failing to respect a 'give way' or stop sign is considered a serious offence, with a fine of 200 euros and a loss of 4 points," she adds.

This reform aims to adapt to new mobility models but may also create uncertainty among private drivers, transport professionals, and companies with road workers. For instance, new signs for personal mobility vehicles, such as electric scooters, are introduced, pictograms are redesigned with an inclusive and accessible focus, obsolete signs are removed, and visibility and comprehension are improved.

The rollout will be gradual, meaning the signs will be renewed progressively across the territory, and for now, they will not be required in theoretical driving exams, pending manual updates. "The regulation is legally applicable from July 1, 2025, so any new or redesigned sign is fully enforceable on the road from that date. Additionally, the new signs will be included in theoretical exams (driving schools) after a minimum period of three months, presumably in October 2025, to allow for manual updates and training," Gullo points out.

"For professional drivers, fleets, and couriers, the impact is that all new or modified signs are mandatory from July 1, regardless of when the signs are physically updated in each area. It is advisable for companies to quickly update internal training, manuals, and GPS/routes (if they use visual alerts or sign notifications) to ensure their drivers are familiar with the new signage. Local authorities (municipalities, councils) will manage the progressive replacement of signs within their usual maintenance cycles during 2025–2026," she emphasizes.

"The level of impact is high in terms of regulatory compliance, especially in areas with hazardous goods, special vehicles, or personal mobility, as there are specific new signs (such as R-118/R-119 for PMVs and R-120 for environmental/ZBE badges) that require drivers' knowledge," concludes the traffic sanctions expert at Pyramid Consulting.