New Regulation for Freight Transport Vehicles
With the publication of Royal Decree 1030/2022, of December 20, a new obligation was established for long and heavy vehicles dedicated to the transport of goods by road in Spain. This regulation modifies Royal Decree 159/2021 and directly affects roadside assistance services.
The second transitional provision of the decree specifies that owners of vehicles registered before the entry into force of the Royal Decree have a period of two years to adapt their vehicles to the provisions of sections V-2 and V-23 of the General Vehicle Regulations.
What is Signal V-23 and who should use it?
The V-23 sign is a specific sign that must be displayed by freight transport vehicles that meet certain length and weight requirements. The regulation is intended to ensure greater visibility and safety on public roads, especially in low visibility conditions or when vehicles are stopped on the road.
Vehicle owners who do not comply with this obligation before 22 December 2024 are exposed to sanctions. This requirement affects thousands of transporters and logistics operators, who will have to adapt their fleets in sufficient time to comply with the legal requirements.
Using the V23 signal: Important details
- Mandatory use: V23 signage must be used on all vehicles exceeding Meters long 6 y 2,1 meters wide, provided that they transport goods weighing more than 7,5 tonnes and are enrolled after the July 10, 2011. Exceptions: cabs, chassis, incomplete vehicles and tractor heads for semi-trailers.
- Voluntary use: Owners of vehicles that meet the same dimensions and specifications but have been registered before the July 10, 2011 may choose to use the V23 sign as an optional feature. In addition, its proactive use is permitted on motor vehicles that do not meet the above requirements if they are intended for transport of goods or people and have at least 4 wheels.
- Prohibited use: The V23 signal must not be used in vehicles with 8 seats or less (not including the driver) or in trailers or semi-trailers with a maximum mass less than 0,75 tonnes
Implementation deadlines and details
According to Royal Decree 1030/2022, the key points of the provision include:
- Deadline: Vehicles must be properly marked with the V-23 before December 22, 2024.
- Vehicle suitability: The necessary modifications must be made to comply with the specifications of sections V-2 and V-23 of Annex XI of the General Vehicle Regulations.
- Industry Impact:It is estimated that this regulation will affect a significant part of the fleets operating in road freight transport, requiring investments for correct signage.
Key Information Table for Signal V-23
| Appearance | Detail |
|---|---|
| Regulation | Royal Decree 1030 / 2022, of 20 of December |
| Effective date | December 20th 2022 |
| Deadline to adapt | December 22th 2024 |
| Affected vehicles | Long and heavy goods vehicles |
| Signage requirements | Signals V-2 and V-23 of the General Regulations |
Extensive 3M Product Catalog to Comply with V-23 Regulations
Ryme Automotive is an official 3M distributor and we have a wide catalog of Products related to this regulation and V-23 signage.



