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IdlingSpain

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Spain. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Spain

68. Idling

Idling means allowing a vehicle's engine to continue running while the vehicle is stationary and the engine is not being used to move the vehicle. This may occur while waiting, parking, loading or unloading or before beginning a journey.

Unnecessary idling consumes fuel and produces exhaust emissions, air pollution and noise. Many countries or local authorities restrict prolonged or unnecessary idling, although exceptions may apply when the engine is required for safety, technical equipment or another necessary purpose.

A stationary vehicle with its engine running is idling. (Volkswagen Golf)
Wikimedia.org • Spacekid • CC0
What is idling?

Idling means keeping a vehicle's engine running while the vehicle remains stationary and the engine is not being used to propel it.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 7 and 23; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 123, stationary engines; national guidance example

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Royal Decree of 1 December 1975, Articles 22sexies and 44, pedestrian-zone access and passenger/load conduct; Belgian example

Why should unnecessary idling be avoided?

Unnecessary idling uses fuel, produces exhaust emissions and creates noise without moving the vehicle.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 7 and 23; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 123, stationary engines; national guidance example

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Royal Decree of 1 December 1975, Articles 22sexies and 44, pedestrian-zone access and passenger/load conduct; Belgian example

Is idling illegal everywhere?

Check the local rule and circumstances. For example, Great Britain prohibits unnecessary idling on a public road but recognises situations such as waiting in traffic or diagnosing a fault. Do not assume that every stationary engine is prohibited or that one country’s exceptions apply elsewhere.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 7 and 23; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 123, stationary engines; national guidance example

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Royal Decree of 1 December 1975, Articles 22sexies and 44, pedestrian-zone access and passenger/load conduct; Belgian example

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