As of January 1, 2026, all vehicles will have to incorporate an approved V16 emergency beacon as a definitive replacement for the classic reflective triangles. This change is part of the update of the General Vehicle Regulations (RGV) promoted by the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT), which seeks to improve road safety in situations of breakdown or accident.
However, not all devices available on the market are valid, and the DGT has warned that only beacons that have passed the official certification process may be used legally.
Which V16 beacon models are homologated by the DGT
The DGT has published a list of V16 beacon models that comply with the technical requirements established in the regulation and are therefore authorized to circulate. These lights must include an official certification number visible on the device or its packaging.
If the model does not appear on that list or does not have such a reference, it will not be considered suitable, even if it emits a similar light or is advertised as “homologated”.
Among the models that have received the go-ahead from the DGT are:
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Help Flash IoT
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PF Led One V16
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FlashLED SOS
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DP-EL2022-C1
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iWottoLight IoT
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MOD100
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FASELIGHT IOT
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Help Flash IoT 9V
- HV16.1
- MI VP10144-A
The complete list can be consulted on the official DGT website, where more than 230 certified models are listed.
Fines for not carrying an approved beacon
The DGT reminds that the use of a non-certified beacon or the total absence of the device may lead to financial penalties. In routine controls, the Guardia Civil de Tráfico is authorized to check the vehicle’s documentation and mandatory safety elements.
As of January 1, 2026, driving without an approved beacon may result in a fine of up to 80 euros, although it will not result in the loss of license points.
Why are emergency triangles disappearing?
The introduction of the V16 beacons responds to the need to reduce the risk of being run over on the road. While placing the triangles forces the driver to get out of the vehicle and walk along the shoulder, the new lights can be activated from inside the car and placed on the roof by means of a magnet, emitting a flashing signal visible from a kilometer away.
In turn, the connected models include automatic geolocation, allowing emergency services to be alerted in real time, speeding up roadside assistance.
