Claudia Romero, lawyer: "When a radar isn't operated by an officer, the fine must include two photos, and one can't simply be a zoom of the other."

Claudia Romero, a lawyer at Almira Legal, makes it clear that there must be two photos for a speeding ticket. This is a requirement of the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) regulations to ensure the ticket is valid.

The two-image requirement

In practice, the first image should show the vehicle in its context (model, color, and location), while the second image clearly focuses on the license plate. This ensures there is no doubt about the identification and that it is not a montage or a reading error. Romero reminds us that it is not valid for the second photo to be solely a digital enlargement of the first, something that has occasionally been seen and that the courts have even invalidated. The DGT uses this double capture to reinforce the legal certainty of its sanctions. If one of the photos is blurry, radar information is missing, or two moments are not different, the fine can be challenged with a real chance of success.

The lawyer points out that this double photo file is not always required. There is one clear exception: if the radar is monitored by an officer (whether stationary, mobile, or from a patrol car), a single image is sufficient to validate the report. In that case, the officer's testimony acts as supplementary evidence, and the second photo is no longer mandatory.

However, at most fixed radars without police presence, failure to comply with the two-image requirement opens the door to appeal. It's important to keep in mind that failing to pay the fine, relying on a defect without having filed a complaint, is risky: the penalties do not disappear and can increase with surcharges, even leading to seizures if not paid.

If a speeding notice arrives with only one photo and no officer present, it's a good idea to review it carefully: check that the license plate is clear, that both images are distinct, and that they include the speed camera information. If anything goes wrong, the next step is to file an administrative appeal with the DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic) or, if necessary, go to court. Romero advises documenting the complaint carefully and keeping a copy of everything.

Adslzone reminds drivers that speeding fines in Spain range from €100 to €600, with the potential loss of up to six points on their license. In extreme situations (going 60 km/h over the speed limit in a city or 80 km/h over the highway), this can result in the revocation of their license. Therefore, beyond appealing, the most sensible course of action is still to comply with the speed limit.

This detail provides a safeguard for the driver and a means of ensuring that sanctions are based on solid evidence. And, as the lawyer points out, if it's not followed, there are legal grounds for the fine to be dismissed.