One of the biggest recent changes to Spanish road rules is the V-16 emergency beacon. If you're studying for the DGT theory test in English, this is a current topic that updated questions now cover — so it's worth understanding clearly.
What is the V-16 beacon?
The V-16 is a small orange/amber flashing light that you place on the roof of your vehicle if you break down or stop in an emergency. It makes your stopped vehicle visible to other drivers.
Why it replaced the warning triangle
The old red warning triangles required you to get out of the car and walk along the road to place them — dangerous on motorways and fast roads. The V-16 can be switched on and placed on the roof without leaving the vehicle, which is far safer.
The "connected" requirement (DGT 3.0)
The mandatory 2026 V-16 models are connected: they automatically send the vehicle's location to the DGT 3.0 traffic system. Other drivers are then warned through navigation apps, sat-navs and electronic road signs — before they even see your car. A simple non-connected beacon does not meet the 2026 requirement.
Fines
Not carrying a compliant V-16 (or using a non-approved one) can result in a fine of roughly €80–200. The exact penalty depends on the situation.
Study with up-to-date 2026 questions
Coche Test is verified against the current rules — including the V-16 beacon. Practise the latest DGT questions in English and Spanish, free to start.
Start practising free →What the DGT test may ask
- What the V-16 beacon is and what colour light it shows.
- That it replaces the warning triangle from 2026.
- That the compliant version is connected to the DGT.
- That you don't need to leave the vehicle to deploy it.
Want the full picture? Read our DGT test in English guide, or learn the road signs and speed limits.
Rules can change — always confirm current requirements with the official DGT (dgt.es).