What is mandatory to carry in the car in 2025 according to the DGT

Updated on
que es obligatorio llevar en el coche

In this post, find out what the DGT (Directorate General of Traffic) requires in your car by 2025: documentation, safety features, V16 hazard lights, and recommended accessories.

What documentation is mandatory to carry in the car?

If you're wondering what you'll need to carry in your car in 2025, the answer starts with the most basic: documentation. Although many documents are already available in digital format, the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) still requires them to be accessible during inspections.

Driving license

You must carry a valid driver's license appropriate for the type of vehicle you drive. You can present it in physical form or through the miDGT app, which also displays the document's validity.

Driving license

This document identifies the vehicle and proves it can be used legally. Like the license, it can be displayed on a mobile phone, but it's advisable to have a printed copy, especially if you're traveling outside of Spain.

ITV card

This is the vehicle's technical data sheet, which states that it has passed the corresponding technical inspection. It must be accompanied by the report from the last favorable inspection and, if applicable, the sticker visible on the windshield.

Safety elements in 2025: vest and immobilized vehicle signaling

Beyond the documentation, there are other mandatory car accessories that you should always have on hand. These items are designed to protect you in the event of a breakdown or accident.

The reflective vest is still mandatory. It's essential to put it on before leaving the car if you need to report an incident. It must also be accessible from inside the vehicle, not in the trunk.

Will it be mandatory to carry triangles in the car in 2025?

This year, you can choose between carrying triangles in your car , an analog V16 beacon, or a connected V16 sign. But beware: starting January 1, 2026 , triangles will no longer be valid, and only a connected beacon that meets the requirements for transmitting its location to the DGT can be used.

V16 connected mandatory from January 1, 2026

The DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic) has announced that, starting January 1, 2026, all drivers must carry a connected V16 beacon to signal breakdowns or accidents. You can start using it now, even instead of triangles if it's an approved model.

Why V16 replaces triangles and how to use it correctly

The great advantage of car hazard warning lights is that you don't have to walk along the shoulder to place them , as is the case with triangles. You can turn them on and place them in seconds directly from inside the car, reducing the risk of being run over.

DGT 3.0 Requirements: 360º Visibility, Range and Connectivity

The DGT requires that these beacons have automatic connectivity to the DGT 3.0 cloud. The connection must be included in the price for 12 years, have 360º visibility, and a minimum range of 1 km . They must also be approved with a visible code.

Why choose Help Flash IoT over other V16s?

Help Flash IoT stands out for its reliability, ease of use, and for being one of the first connected beacons approved in Spain . It activates simply by placing it on the roof, automatically connects to the DGT 3.0 (Spanish Traffic Administration), and offers exceptional visibility, even in rain or fog. It's already used by law enforcement agencies, fleets, and thousands of drivers who prioritize their safety.

Plus, the new, improved Help Flash IoT+ is even more powerful. With over 250 candlepower, it maximizes the beacon's visibility, even during the day.

Recommended accessories and elements (not mandatory)

Although they aren't mandatory car accessories , carrying a few extra items can get you out of more than one tight spot on the road. Here are the most recommended:

Spare wheel

It's not mandatory if the car has a repair kit, but it's still useful. Make sure it's in good condition and that you have the tools to change it.

Repair kit

More and more vehicles now include it as standard instead of a spare tire. Ideal for minor punctures that you can fix without assistance.

Kit

It's not mandatory in passenger cars, but it is recommended. It includes gauze, bandages, disinfectant, bandages, and gloves.

Gloves

Very useful if you need to manipulate any part of the vehicle or change a wheel without getting dirty or hurt.

Flashlight

Essential if you need to check something at night or in low-visibility areas. Ideally, it should be rechargeable or have spare batteries.

Cable ties

A very practical resource for temporarily securing cables, loose parts, or even the bumper if it comes loose after a minor impact.

Conclusion

Knowing what's required in your car by 2025 not only helps you avoid fines, but can also make a difference in emergency situations. The key is to combine the items required by the DGT with others that help you be better prepared. If you don't yet use a connected beacon like Help Flash IoT+ , now's a good time to take the step. Your safety and that of your loved ones should always come first.