Why traffic police in Spain are asking to look inside your glove compartment
Guardia Civil in Spain are focusing on missing documents and safety equipment, with fines up to an eye-watering €3,000
The Guardia Civil has stepped up roadside checks across Spain and many drivers have been surprised to find officers asking to look inside their glove compartments. This operation is only one part of a larger campaign to improve road safety and make sure that vehicles carry the right paperwork and equipment.
Although some reports have worried drivers with talk of huge fines, the situation is more straightforward than it sounds. Penalties are only applied when someone is missing mandatory documents, carrying something that should not be in the car or failing to meet safety rules that will soon come into effect.
According to the Guardia Civil, these checks go beyond the usual inspection of driving licences and vehicle documents. Officers are also looking at what people are keeping inside their glove boxes and other small compartments.
One of the main things they are watching for is the presence of dangerous or prohibited items. Carrying knives, unlicensed firearms or anything that could be seen as a weapon can lead to fines of more than €600.
These cases fall under Spain’s Citizen Security Law, which allows penalties of up to an eye-watering €3,000 for serious or very serious offences.
You might also like: How to pay reduced fines for traffic violations in Spain
Another focus is the V16 emergency beacon. From January 2026, this small flashing light will replace the reflective warning triangles that most people still use. Drivers will need to keep it somewhere easy to reach such as the glove compartment so that it can be used quickly in case of a breakdown or an accident. Although it is not yet mandatory, once the rule takes effect anyone who does not have it could face a fine.
The most common issue remains missing or expired documents. Every driver must be able to show a valid driving licence, vehicle registration certificate and ITV inspection card. Forgetting or failing to renew these can lead to a fine, but the amounts vary widely.
The Guardia Civil says the aim of these checks is to raise awareness rather than hand out large fines.
Officers are encouraging drivers to keep glove compartments tidy and to remove items that could be confusing or dangerous in an accident. That means clearing out unnecessary tools, multi-purpose knives or blunt objects that could be seen as weapons.
Drivers should remember that the DGT now lets you store your vehicle documents digitally through its mobile app. Even so, it is still a good idea to carry physical copies to make roadside checks quicker.
So while it is true that serious offences can bring fines of up to €3,000, these cases are rare. For most people, the simple message from the traffic authorities is keep your car organised, check that your paperwork is valid and make sure any safety equipment is easy to find before setting off.
Find all the latest motoring and travel news here or join our Driving in Spain Facebook group for regular updates
Image: Freepik
Address
Diseminado Casa Blanca, 43, 30154 MurciaTel: 0034 622 06 21 15
SEGURO AIRPORT PARKING AT MURCIA CORVERA AND ALICANTE-ELCHE AIRPORTS
A cheaper alternative to the Aena airport car parks in south-eastern Spain
Seguro Parking offers a reliable and affordable solution for short- and long-term parking at the Region of Murcia International Airport (Corvera) and Alicante Airport. With their convenient meet-and-greet service, they handle everything from car collection to secure storage, ensuring a seamless experience for travellers.
Why choose Seguro Parking?
- Convenience: Meet a representative directly at the airport. No shuttles, no extra luggage handling
- Secure parking: Cars are stored in fully insured and 24/7-secured facilities near the airports
- Flexibility: Park for a day or a year, with annual contracts or pay-as-you-go options
- Two-airport deals: Drop off at one airport and pick up at another—perfect for cost-effective travel flexibility
- Affordable rates: Save up to 90% compared to airport parking prices. Complimentary car washes included!
Reservations are quick and easy online, with confirmations sent instantly. Registered users can manage their bookings through an online account, ensuring a hassle-free process. For assistance, call 0034 622 06 21 15 or email info@seguroparking.com
Read more articles about Corvera Airport, Murcia:
