Mallorca’s New V16 Beacon: What You Need To Know

As of January 1st 2026 the V16 beacon is now a mandatory device you have to carry in your vehicle in parts of Spain and in Mallorca. In 2025 this was not compulsory but recommended to all vehicle owners to provide a clear and easy transition. Below you have a breakdown of everything you need to know about the V16 beacon and how to use it. 

 

What is the V16 beacon?

The V16 beacon is a connected emergency signalling light that you must now carry in cars in Spain to signal a breakdown, accident, or stopped vehicle. It replaces traditional reflective triangles that were previously used.

• It emits a 360° amber flashing light visible from over 1 km away.

• It has built-in connectivity and automatically sends your vehicle’s location to Spain’s traffic authority (DGT 3.0 platform) when activated.

• It stays active for a minimum period (usually 2 hours or more).

So why replace the warning triangle that we have always used before?

The shift to V16 beacons is designed to improve roadside safety and reduce the risk to drivers from exiting their vehicle to place triangles, which has historically led to roadside run-over deaths.

Who Must Carry One

You must carry a DGT-approved connected V16 beacon in the following vehicles:

• Cars, SUVs, passenger vehicles

• Vans, minibuses, trucks and buses

• Motorhomes (categorised as passenger vehicles)

It is not required but recommended by authorities to have a V16 beacon for your motorcycles and mopeds in the case you are in an unfortunate accident or breakdown.

What if I drive my vehicle into Spain that I registered in a different country?

Technically, Spanish law cannot impose technical equipment obligations on vehicles registered outside Spain (international traffic rules), so while Spanish enforcement is focused on Spanish-registered cars, many police are already issuing fines in general to cars driving in Spain without V16 beacons — including rented vehicles. 

How to Use It

In a Breakdown or Accident:

1. Switch on hazard lights.

2. Put on high-visibility reflectors (also mandatory).

3. Place the V16 beacon on the vehicle’s highest accessible point without leaving the vehicle (ideally the roof) and activate it.

4. Move to a safe area away from the road.

The reason you must have a valid V16 beacon is because when the beacon is activated it will emit light and send your location to the DGT system so it can be shown on signage and some navigation systems

Fines & Penalties

• €80 fine for not carrying a compliant V16 beacon.

• Higher penalties (~€200) may apply if you fail to use it properly or neglect other safety gear (e.g., reflective vest).

The Police, including the Guardia Civil, are actively issuing fines across Spain, including in major holiday areas like Mallorca

Practical Tips for Visitors & Renters

If you’re driving a rental car in Mallorca or elsewhere in Spain:

• Check that the vehicle comes with a V16 beacon before you set off. Rental companies may charge extra if it’s missing.

• Don’t leave the beacon in the parked car where it’s visible — theft reports are circulating.

• Keep it in an accessible place inside the car, not in the boot, so you can deploy it without delay.