The DGT's measure allowing motorcyclists to ride on the shoulder is still pending: these are the exceptions that currently allow it to be used without the risk of a fine.

Although this issue has been on the table for years , it is expected to come into force soon. We are referring to the regulation that will allow motorcyclists to ride on the hard shoulder in exceptional circumstances, which is still expected in 2025. Just over a year ago, the DGT announced in its magazine that the General Traffic Regulations (RGC) would be updated regarding the use of lanes and hard shoulders "in special situations, in bad weather, and with traffic jams," the publication stated.

An update that drivers have been waiting for for quite some time. This is especially true for motorcyclists , as the use of the shoulder to ease traffic congestion during a traffic jam is a demand that recurs year after year. The DGT magazine emphasized in its article that " motorcyclists will be authorized to ride on the right shoulder on all types of roads with traffic jams, under two conditions: at a speed not exceeding 30 km/h and respecting the right of way for vehicles required to ride on the shoulder, especially bicycles ."

Ana Blanco, the Deputy Director of Traffic at the DGT, endorsed the proposal: "This is a measure to facilitate motorcycling while ensuring certain safety conditions ," she stated. These statements, made in April of last year, make us wonder when they will be incorporated into the regulations. This is especially true given that the last update to the RGC (General Regulations) was released less than a month ago, and there have been no major developments.

So, for now, the hard shoulder will remain off-limits to motorcycles, except, of course, under the instructions of traffic officers, roadworks, accidents, or temporary signs. It should be remembered, however, that mopeds are permitted in exceptional circumstances as long as "the hard shoulder is passable and sufficient." In this case, "they may travel in columns of two on the hard shoulder, without encroaching on the roadway under any circumstances," the regulations state.

In the meantime, and until the change arrives, the regulations are very clear. The fine for driving on the hard shoulder is €200, although at least it doesn't entail losing points. For now, we just have to wait for the update to take effect. But it won't arrive in time for the summer 2025 exit/return operation .