The bill proposes changes to Spain's penalty-point driving license

Automatic summary, not yet reviewed

1. The bill would increase the point loss for holding a cell phone in your hand while driving (from 3 to 6 points) and for not using, or not using correctly, the seat belt, helmet or child restraint systems (4 points).
2. It would allow safe and efficient driving courses to add two bonus points, up to a maximum of fifteen, with at most one course of each type every two years. This would not apply until a ministerial order sets the course content and requirements.
3. It would unify at two years the period needed to recover the initial point balance after sanctions become final, removing the current distinction between two years (serious offenses) and three years (very serious offenses).
4. It would remove the option to exceed conventional road speed limits by 20 km/h when overtaking, and would ban bicycles and personal mobility vehicles from riding on sidewalks.
5. Using unauthorized intercommunication devices during driving tests would become a very serious offense: a fine plus a six-month ban from retaking the tests.
6. It would make non-payment of tolls, fees or public charges an offense, with data exchange with other EU countries, and would create an online system for transport companies to check whether their professional drivers are legally allowed to drive.

Who it affects

• Drivers in general: They would lose more points for hand-held phone use, not using seat belts, helmets or child restraints, and overtaking cyclists without the 1.5-meter clearance; they could recover or gain points through safe and efficient driving courses.
• Driving test candidates: Anyone using unauthorized intercommunication devices during the test would face a fine and a six-month ban from retaking it.
• Transport companies and self-employed employers: They could check through an online system whether their professional drivers are legally authorized to drive.
• Professional drivers: Alcohol and drug testing during professional activity would be regulated, and stricter alcohol limits would apply to them.
• Cyclists and personal mobility vehicle users: They could no longer ride on sidewalks and would have to wear helmets as set out in regulations.

Words worth knowing

Firmeza (de una sanción)

When a fine can no longer be appealed, that is, when it becomes final.

Vehículo de movilidad personal

A motorized electric vehicle, such as an e-scooter, meant to carry one person.

Detracción de puntos

The deduction of points from a driving license balance as a result of an offense.

Carretera convencional

A road with one lane in each direction, that is not a highway or expressway.

Alcoholímetro antiarranque

A device that prevents the vehicle from starting if the driver tests positive for alcohol.

It summarizes the text passed by the Senado. It is written by artificial intelligence and may contain mistakes: the official text is what counts. Read the official text · How we make summaries