New Zero-Alcohol Rule for Under-18 Riders Now in Force Across Spain – What It Means in Lanzarote
Anyone under the age of 18 riding a bicycle, electric scooter or moped in Lanzarote and the rest of Spain must now have zero alcohol in their system. The new rule officially came into force after being published in Spain’s Official State Gazette (BOE) and forms part of the country’s ongoing efforts to improve road safety.
For both residents and tourists visiting Lanzarote, it’s important to understand that this isn’t just aimed at cars. The law also applies to young people using many of the most common forms of transport around resorts and towns.
What Has Changed?
The biggest change is that under-18s now have a legal alcohol limit of 0.0 when riding:
- Bicycles
- Electric scooters (e-scooters)
- Mopeds
If a rider under 18 records any detectable amount of alcohol in a roadside breath test, they can face a €500 fine.
If the young person holds a driving licence, penalty points may also apply. Riders who do not require a licence, such as most cyclists and e-scooter users, can still receive the financial penalty.
What About Adults?
The new rule specifically targets riders and drivers under the age of 18.
Current alcohol limits for adult motorists remain unchanged for now, although Spain continues to debate wider drink-driving reforms as part of its road safety strategy.
Why This Matters in Lanzarote
Lanzarote is becoming increasingly popular for electric scooter hire, cycling holidays and moped rentals. Around tourist resorts such as Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise, Playa Blanca and Arrecife, it’s common to see young people travelling by bike or scooter.
Many visitors may not realise that Spanish traffic laws differ from those in their home country.
Parents travelling with teenagers should be aware that even a small amount of alcohol can now result in a substantial fine if an under-18 is stopped by police while riding.
The Guardia Civil and local police regularly carry out roadside checks throughout the Canary Islands, particularly during busy holiday periods and local fiestas.
A Reminder for Tourists
If you’re holidaying in Lanzarote with children or teenagers:
- Don’t allow anyone under 18 to ride a bike, scooter or moped after drinking alcohol.
- Remember that the rule applies even if they only consumed a small amount.
- Hire companies may also have their own age and safety requirements.
- Always wear appropriate safety equipment where required and follow local traffic regulations.
Road Safety First
Spain’s Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) says the aim of the new measure is to reduce accidents involving young road users and reinforce a simple message: the safest alcohol level when riding or driving is zero.
As Lanzarote continues to welcome thousands of cyclists and scooter users every year, understanding the latest traffic rules can help visitors avoid unexpected fines while keeping everyone safer on the island’s roads.
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