Is it legal to carry an intercom on a motorcycle?

If you've ever thought about installing an intercom in your motorcycle helmet, you've probably also wondered: Is it legal, or can I get fined for this?

This question is very common among those of us who ride motorcycles daily, whether for getting around the city, for long rides, or group outings.

The truth is that motorcycle intercoms have gained popularity due to their usefulness for communicating, listening to music, or following GPS directions without taking your eyes off the road.

But of course, like everything on a motorcycle, it's not enough to just put whatever you want on it without knowing if it complies with the law. The regulations have changed, and although there's more clarity on this issue now, confusion remains .

Let's break it all down: what the DGT says, which intercoms are legal, what they can be used for, what happens if you're caught with an unauthorized one, and what we should keep in mind to drive safely and within the law .

So if you're interested in installing an intercom on your helmet or already have one, keep reading because this is going to be interesting for you.

What does the DGT Law say?

The General Directorate of Traffic has made its position clear in recent years regarding the use of intercoms on motorcycles. Until recently, the law was quite ambiguous and left everything up to the interpretation of traffic officers.

But starting in 2022, with the reform of the Traffic Law , an important clarification was made: the use of wireless devices on the motorcyclist's helmet is permitted, provided they are approved and do not affect safety.

Of course, there's one important caveat: you can't manipulate the device while driving . That means you can't change songs, search for contacts, or fiddle with buttons while driving. That is considered a distraction and, therefore, a fine.

In short, motorcycle intercoms are legal in Spain , as long as they're approved and used correctly. No more, no less.

This update has brought peace of mind to many motorcyclists, although it has also created confusion regarding which models are valid and how they should be installed.

Which intercoms are approved?

Here's the key: not all intercoms on the market comply with regulations.

For a device to be legal, it must comply with European regulation ECE 22.06 (or the previous ECE 22.05, which is still valid in many cases). This means:

• The intercom must be integrated into the helmet or installed in such a way that it does not alter its structure or compromise its protection.
• It has to be wireless , usually with Bluetooth technology.
• It may not require the use of earbuds or cables that connect to external devices while driving.

Many intercom manufacturers, such as Sena, Cardo, and Midland, already include this certification in their products. Still, it's a good idea to check the specifications carefully before purchasing.

If you buy a helmet with an intercom already integrated from the factory , you have much more guarantees that everything is within the law.

On the other hand, if you decide to install it yourself, make sure the helmet's integrity is not compromised. Drilling, cutting, or modifying any part can void its certification, which not only puts you at risk in the event of an accident but can also result in a fine .

What can the intercom be used for?

The advantage of motorcycle intercoms is that they have a multitude of practical uses , all of which can help make riding safer and more comfortable. Some of the most common and permitted uses are:

Communication between pilot and passenger

When we're driving with someone, being able to communicate clearly without having to shout or make awkward gestures is a luxury.

It also helps a lot to maintain attention and coordination, especially during complicated maneuvers or long journeys.

Communication between motorcycles

If we ride in a group , being able to talk to other riders greatly improves safety. We can warn them about obstacles, detours, refueling, etc.

Of course, always within a responsible use : it's not about having a long conversation as if we were at a bar, but rather using it wisely.

GPS Navigation

One of the most useful features is receiving GPS directions directly on your helmet. This way, you can avoid being distracted by looking at your phone or using an external navigator.

Listening to instructions allows us to keep our eyes on the road at all times.

Listen to music or the radio

The intercom can also be used to listen to music or the radio , although it is not entirely clear whether this is allowed or not.

In any case, always try not to turn up the volume too loud or isolate you from your surroundings. Especially in the city, we must be alert to the sounds of traffic, ambulances, horns, etc.

So to avoid problems, we would not recommend using the intercom to listen to music.

Can you be fined for using an intercom?

The answer is yes, you can be fined , but only in certain cases. Fines are typically imposed when:

• You are using an intercom that is not approved .
• You have modified the helmet to install the device, and that affects its structure.
• You are manipulating the intercom while driving.
• You use earbuds or earplugs, which are prohibited.

Fines typically range from €200 to the loss of three points on your license. It's no small feat, especially when there are legal alternatives that do the job perfectly.

That's why we insist: before purchasing or installing an intercom, make sure it complies with regulations and doesn't require modifications to the helmet that would render it void of certification.

And if you already have one, check the manual, the approval label, and make sure everything is in order.

Final conclusion

In short: yes, it's legal to carry an intercom on a motorcycle , but not just any kind. It must be approved, wireless, and installed safely and legally. We must also use it with common sense, so that it doesn't become a distraction while riding.

Technology has arrived to make our lives easier even on two wheels, but we must use it responsibly. If you choose your intercom wisely and comply with the DGT guidelines , you can enjoy all its benefits without worrying about fines.