V signs are essential signalling elements on vehicles and play a key role in road safety. These signs are intended to inform other road users about the characteristics or special circumstances of the vehicle, such as the type of service it provides, the load it carries or the conditions of the driver. The use of these signs is regulated by the General Vehicle Regulations, and their correct placement must comply with the provisions of Annex XI of Article 18.

What are V signals and why are they important?

V signs are placed on vehicles to communicate specific situations to other drivers and road users. Depending on the vehicle, driver or load, these signs may be mandatory. It is the responsibility of each driver to know and correctly apply the regulations to ensure everyone's safety.

Below we detail the different types of V signals, their uses and specifications.

Types of Signals V

1. Sign V1: Priority vehicle

Indicates that the vehicle belongs to emergency services, such as fire, police, civil protection, rescue or medical assistance. It is used to ensure that other drivers give way or act with caution.

2. Signal V2: Vehicle or obstacle on the road

Any vehicle may use this sign if it constitutes an obstacle on the road, such as mobile workshops or refuse collection vehicles. This sign is placed to warn of the presence of a danger on the road.

3. Sign V3: Police vehicle

This sign is placed on the sides of the vehicle with the name and corporate image of the police force to which it belongs.

4. Sign V4: Speed ​​limit

Indicates the maximum speed allowed for the vehicle in kilometres per hour (km/h). It is mandatory for vehicles that, due to their characteristics, cannot travel at more than a certain speed.

5. Sign V5: Slow moving vehicle

Motor vehicles that cannot exceed 40 km/h must carry this sign. It is common on agricultural machinery and certain industrial vehicles.

6. Sign V6: Long vehicle

Mandatory for vehicles exceeding 12 metres in length, such as certain trucks or buses, to warn drivers to maintain the appropriate distance.

7. Sign V7: Spanish nationality badge

It is not mandatory for vehicles registered in Spain with the European flag and the letter "E" on the license plate. It is used in other cases to identify the vehicle's nationality.

8. Sign V8: Foreign nationality badge

Vehicles registered in other countries must carry this sign when driving in Spain, identifying the country of origin.

9. Signal V9: Public service

Identifies vehicles intended for public service, such as taxis or buses, when required by law. Its use is subject to administrative authorization.

10. Sign V10: School transportation

It indicates that the vehicle is transporting students, and it is mandatory to ensure safety and alert other drivers.

11. Sign V11: Transport of dangerous goods

It is used to indicate that the vehicle is transporting hazardous materials, such as fuels, chemicals or gases. The regulations establish strict requirements for these vehicles.

12. Signal V12: Essay or research

Used by vehicle manufacturers during authorised testing of new models. It is a temporary signal to indicate that the vehicle is undergoing testing.

13. Sign V13: New driver

Drivers with a newly obtained license must display this sign. In Spain, it is mandatory for a specific period after obtaining a driving license.

14. Signal V14: Learning to drive

Mandatory for vehicles used by aspiring drivers in the learning phase. It is used during driving practice.

15. Sign V15: People with functional diversity or disabilities

Indicates that the vehicle is driven by a person with a disability that affects their mobility. It allows vehicles to be identified for the correct use of reserved parking spaces.

16. Sign V16: Danger signaling sign

This sign is placed when the vehicle is immobilized on the road, especially in emergency situations. It is a mandatory safety measure in case of a breakdown.

17. Sign V17: Free indicator lighting

Light used by taxis to indicate to pedestrians and road users whether the vehicle is free or occupied.

18. Sign V18: Taximeter lighting

It is used in public service passenger vehicles, such as taxis, to illuminate the taximeter when service begins.

19. Sign V19: Periodic Vehicle Inspection (ITV) Badge

Indicates that the vehicle has passed the mandatory technical inspection and shows the date of the next inspection. It is a legal requirement for all vehicles.

20. Sign V20: Protruding loads panel

Indicates that the load protrudes from the rear of the vehicle. This is essential to alert other drivers and avoid accidents.

21. Signal V21: Special transport escort warning

Indicates that a vehicle under special transport is in circulation or about to circulate. It is used in convoys that require an escort.

22. Sign V22: Sign warning of accompanying cyclists

Indicates the presence or imminent circulation of a group of cyclists, alerting drivers to take extreme precautions.

23. Sign V23: Distinctive for freight transport vehicles

It is used on large vehicles that occupy a significant part of the road, to warn other users of their presence.

24. Sign V24: Roadside assistance tow truck service

Identifies roadside assistance service tow trucks. It is placed to warn other drivers of their presence and activity.

25. Sign V25: Environmental badge

It classifies vehicles according to their level of polluting emissions. It is a sticker used to access low-emission areas in cities.

26. Sign V26: Shared use sign

Identifies vehicles used in car-sharing systems. It is increasingly common in urban areas with sustainable mobility policies.

Other types of related signals

In addition to V signs, the General Traffic Regulations regulate the use of special acoustic signals. These include emergency sirens, the vehicle horn and acoustic signals from machinery, such as the reverse beep of trucks.

Importance of V signs in road safety

Correct use and understanding of V signs is essential for safe and responsible driving. These signs not only help regulate traffic, but also protect all road users, from drivers to pedestrians.

It is crucial to remember that all V signs must be approved. Using unofficial or improvised signs puts road safety at risk and may lead to administrative sanctions.

For more details and specific regulations, it is recommended to consult Annex XI of the General Vehicle Regulations or current legislation on road safety.