The road will notice a change of pace with the call Operation Glove Box of the Civil Guard. A surveillance campaign which will focus on what we carry inside the car to ensure that the mandatory equipment is present and accessible. And to detect dangerous objects whose possession can be punished, which implies an increase in their coffers.
With the new DGT mandate just around the corner, officers are already carrying out checks in which they (literally) ask for open glove compartment and they check for the presence of the V16 beacon, documentation, reflective vest, and other basic items. From the January 1, 2026The only valid signal for a stationary vehicle will now be the connected V16. Stay tuned for all updates.
What does Operation Glove Box consist of?
It is a surveillance campaign On the road, officers can inspect the glove compartment and passenger compartment to verify that the vehicle complies with the required safety equipment and that no contraband is being transported. prohibited itemsIt does not introduce new powers: it intensifies the powers already provided for by traffic regulations and public safety legislation.
What changes with the V16 beacon connected…
The transition will be phased: up to December 31th 2025 Traditional triangles, non-connected V16 lights, and the new connected V16 lights coexist. From 2026, only the V16 connected It will be legal to use it to mark a vehicle stopped on the road. The V16 beacon is a compact device that emits high-intensity light with coverage 360º for at least 30 minutesIt has a battery with a minimum lifespan of 18 months and connectivity that sends its real-time position to the platform. DGT 3.0so that other users and services receive the danger warning.
To ensure it fulfills its function, the DGT recommends carrying it. handy in the glove compartment or an accessible compartment. Avoid storing it in the trunk: Do not leave the vehicle Its placement reduces the risk of accidents, especially on highways and motorways. In practice, its use is simple and quick, so It's worth rehearsing The basic steps to avoid hesitation in a real-life situation:
- Stop the vehicle safely and turn on the hazard lights.
- Activate the V16 and place it on the roof by putting your arm out of the window, without getting out of the car.
- Stay inside with your seatbelt fastened and await instructions; the beacon sends the location to DGT 3.0.
Penalties: amounts and most common types of fines…
Failure to have the required warning device may result in a penalty of around 80 €Furthermore, leaving a vehicle immobilized without proper signage is punishable by up to €200Using a non-approved V16 is considered as not complying with the valid device, and therefore may have the same administrative consequence.
A reflective vest is also mandatory when leaving the vehicle on interurban roads; failure to comply will result in a fine. €200The specific amounts may vary depending on the case and the applicable criteria, but the general rule is clear: signage is clear and proper procedures must be followed. approved material It avoids penalties and, above all, exposes the driver less.
Items you shouldn't carry in the car…
The other focus of the campaign is on the dangerous objects Without justification: automatic or large-bladed knives, expandable batons, unauthorized pepper spray, and other blunt instruments. The Organic Law of Citizen security It classifies the unjustified possession of firearms in public spaces, including vehicles, as a serious offense, with fines ranging from 601€ to 3.005€, in addition to the removal of the object.
Whether the item is in the glove compartment or the trunk doesn't change the criteria: if you can't justify its transport for work, sports, or professional reasons, may be punishableThe highest levels of the sanctions regime are reserved for especially serious cases.
Documentation and miDGT: the essentials
At all times you must be able to prove driving license, the vehicle registration certificate and the ITV cardThe insurance policy does not need to be carried in paper form, as agents can verify it electronically. The application myDGT It allows you to carry both your driving license and vehicle registration documents on your mobile phone, fully valid in Spain. The DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic) itself is working to incorporate it. more digital processes and a conversational assistant that facilitates procedures from the phone, with the aim of simplifying the daily lives of drivers.
Quick tips to pass the checkpoint without any surprises…
Regular maintenance saves trouble and avoids fines: prepare your car for an inspection. Operation Glove Box and in the event of a breakdown.
- Keep the V16 connected and approved in the glove compartment or an accessible space.
- Keep the reflective vest handy for use without going down to the road.
- Check your vehicle registration and MOT; consider carrying it in your car as well. myDGT.
- Remove knives, unauthorized sprays, or objects that could be considered weapons.
With the Operation Glove Box With the V16 light already in operation and the V16 light connected as a mandatory signaling standard, having it accessible, the documentation up to date, and the car free of problematic objects will make any check a simple formality and, most importantly, will contribute to a road safety higher for everyone.