How to check if your V16 beacon is approved with the LCOE code

Beginning January 1, 2026, the V16 beacons will be connected They've gone from being a simple recommendation to becoming a mandatory feature in almost all vehicles in Spain. These emergency lights replace the traditional warning triangles and, in addition to emitting a highly visible light signal, connect to the platform. DGT 3.0 to send the car's location in case of breakdown or accident.

The problem is that today they coexist in the market. Legal V16 beacons, without connectivity and completely obsolete Alongside models already approved and valid for 2026, there are also a good number of dubious or outright counterfeit devices. If you don't choose wisely, you could waste money on a light that won't work for you, or expose yourself to... fines of up to 200 euros and loss of security when you need it most, which is when you're stopped on the side of the road.

What exactly is a certified and connected V16 beacon?

A certified and connected V16 beacon is a self-sufficient emergency light that is mounted on the ceiling or in a high area of ​​the vehicle and serves two functions: to warn other drivers by means of an intense flash of amber color and to communicate its geolocation to the DGT automatically when it is activated.

For a model to be considered valid from 2026 onwards, it must have undergone a certification process in a laboratory authorized by the Ministry of IndustrySpecifically, LCOE (Official Central Electrotechnical Laboratory) or Applus IDIADA. These centers verify that the beacon meets the requirements for visibility, autonomy, connectivity and resistance specified in the regulations (MOV Guideline 2022/03, Royal Decree 1030/2022 and Annex XI of the General Vehicle Regulations).

This means that the beacon, under real-world conditions of use, must offer a flashing light signal visible from a great distanceto stay lit for a minimum amount of time and withstand rain, dust, wind, cold and heat, as well as being able to communicate with the DGT 3.0 platform using IoT (M2M) technology without depending on the driver's mobile phone.

Another key feature is that each unit incorporates a unique and traceable identifierOn the one hand, there is the type approval code (LCOE or IDIADA with a specific numbering system) and, on the other, the IMEI code or equivalent for data connection. Both elements allow the DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic) and manufacturers to monitor devices in circulation and ensure their correct registration on the connected platform.

In practice, when you activate a connected and approved V16 beacon, it starts to emit 360º visible flashes and send your position to the DGT 3.0 cloud periodically (usually every 100 seconds) while it remains illuminated. This alerts other road users via variable message signs and facilitates emergency management for traffic and assistance services.

Technical requirements that a V16 with geolocation must meet

Beyond including connectivity, a valid V16 must comply with a series of very specific technical criteria set by Spanish regulationsAlthough the packaging usually includes a summary and the instructions provide full details, it's helpful to know the key points to avoid being misled.

Regarding the light, the beacon has to emit a yellow flash visible from more than 1 kilometer of distance even in challenging conditions (rain, dense fog, or low light). The signal must be omnidirectional, with 360º visibility on the horizontal plane and ±8º on the vertical planeso that it can be seen from almost any angle on the road.

The regulations establish a range of luminous intensity that moves between 40 and 80 candles at degree 0and a flash frequency between 0,8 and 2 Hz. That is, the light flashes between almost once and twice per second, enough to attract attention without being annoying or dazzling to other drivers.

Regarding energy, the V16 engines have to guarantee a minimum autonomy of 30 minutes of continuous useThere's no set maximum, but the longer it lasts, the better. The important thing is that the battery maintains stability over that time without losing power. These beacons typically operate with rechargeable battery USB or replaceable batteries (for example, AA batteries) and their lifespan should not be less than 18 months under normal storage conditions.

In terms of environmental protection, a minimum of IP54 rating, which guarantees resistance to dust and moistureFurthermore, the beacon must withstand temperatures between -10°C and 50°C without issue and remain stable in windy conditions when mounted on the vehicle. To achieve this, many incorporate a high-hold magnetic base which allows it to be easily attached to the roof or metal areas of the car.

The connected part incorporates a eSIM or integrated card that cannot be extracted and that provides M2M connectivity with the data network without depending on the mobile phoneThis connection allows you to send your geolocation and status to DGT 3.0 periodically. Regulations require that the data service is included for at least 12 years without additional fees for the user, usually until dates such as January 2038 for current models.

Another relevant detail is that, when the beacon is activated, a Automatic communication of location and event to the DGTwithout the driver having to open any app or take any additional steps. The device turns on, starts flashing, and immediately begins sending situation information to the connected platform.

How to identify if your V16 beacon is approved with the LCOE or IDIADA code

The most reliable way to know if a device is legal for 2026 is to check the homologation code that appears on the casingAll V16s that have passed official tests have a code permanently engraved, printed or marked that begins with LCOE or IDIADA, followed by a combination of numbers (and sometimes letters).

That code isn't just for show: it's the unique registration number that links the beacon to its certificate issued by the corresponding laboratory. For example, codes such as “LCOE 2023010020G1”, “LCOE 2024070677G1” or “IDIADA PC24010041” identify specific models, such as FlashLED SOS, DP-EL2024-C1, EmergLight and many others included in the official DGT list.

It is essential that this code is integrated indelibly into the tulip or casingEngraving, molding into the plastic, durable screen printing, etc. If you only see an adhesive label that peels off easily, be suspicious. Tear-off or poorly attached stickers are a typical symptom of products that have not passed regulatory verification.

In addition to the laboratory code, the beacon must include a clearly legible homologation mark And, in the case of connected models, the explicit indication that it has geolocation and connection to the “DGT 3.0 Platform”. The packaging and instructions frequently mention “V16 IoT”, “V16 connected” or refer to IoT/M2M and DGT 3.0.

The DGT maintains on its website a Official list of certified makes and models where, for each reference, the laboratory that issued the approval, the LCOE or IDIADA code, the commercial name, the applicant (manufacturer or distributor) and, in many cases, the names under which the same beacon is marketed are detailed.

This list includes well-known devices such as Netun Solutions' Help Flash IoT, Turisport's FlashLED SOS and FlashLED SOS RACC, Wottoline's FASELIGHT IoT and iWottoLight IoT, HELLA's HV16.1, OSRAM's LEDguardian Road Flare V16 IoT, SOSTRAFFIC/Blueshield49/CEGASA's RV7000, Speed ​​Sound's Claim Light NB IoT, as well as all the IoT model family from Ledel Solutions, Limburg Technology, Premier Auto Accessory and many more brands. Specific variants for car manufacturers such as SEAT, CUPRA, BMW, AUDI, and PORSCHE are also listed.

Interestingly, the same beacon design can be sold with Different brands but share the same homologation code and the same applicant in the DGT table. For example, there are references to Limburg Technology that are marketed as FlashMate, Challux, WE, SafeAlert S21, SafeTech, Mondial Safe, etc., and all appear grouped around IDIADA codes such as “PC25070080”, “PC25070250” or similar.

The great advantage of this database is that the driver himself can search for the code you see on your beacon or on the box within the "Certified Makes and Models" section of the DGT website. If the result appears, the beacon is approved. If it does not appear or the code format does not match (for example, it starts with letters other than LCOE or IDIADA, or the numbering is made up), the safest course of action is to assume that the device is not valid.

Clear signs that a V16 is fake or will not be valid in 2026

With so many options online and in large stores, it's easy to find yourself beacons that appear legal but do not comply with regulationsKnowing how to recognize warning signs can save you money, fines, and a nasty scare on the road.

A first clue is the abnormally low priceConnected and approved V16s, which include geolocation service for about 12 years, usually range between 40 and 50 euros. When you see models advertising "DGT 3.0 connectivity" for 15 or 20 euros, it's practically guaranteed that These are not certified connected V16 devicesno matter how attractive the offer may be.

Another suspicious sign is that the packaging mentions "homologation" but no LCOE or IDIADA code appears on the casingIt's not enough to simply list a supposed manufacturer's reference number or a generic code. Without the typical structure LCOE + numbers or IDIADA PC + numbers, there's no way to verify that the beacon has undergone official testing.

It is also a cause for distrust when the box claims that the product is "connected" but The DGT 3.0 platform is not mentioned, nor does any IMEI appear. or M2M connectivity reference. Real V16 IoT devices usually clearly indicate that they include free data connectivity for a specific period (for example, until 2038), and in many cases incorporate the IMEI printed inside or on the device itself.

Another common marketing trick is to highlight that the beacon is “V16 approved” without clarifying that It does not have geolocation.These beacons, which were originally approved without connectivity, can still be sold until 2025, but They cease to be valid from 2026 onwards.If the description only mentions V16 and never IoT, DGT 3.0, geolocation or data connection, it's likely you're dealing with one of these older models.

Finally, we must look at the type of distinctive mark that the device bearsIf all you see is a thin sticker that peels off with your fingernail, or if the text rubs off easily, it's very likely a product that hasn't undergone proper quality control. Beacons that have passed LCOE or IDIADA certifications usually have quality markings: laser engraving, durable screen printing, embossing, etc.

How to check the connection and registration of your beacon with the DGT

Once you have made sure that the light has its The homologation code is correct and it appears on the official list.The next step is to verify that the connected part is working as it should and that the beacon is correctly registered in the traffic systems.

Each IoT device has a unique communications identifier (such as an IMEI) associated with the integrated eSIM. Many manufacturers offer, through their website or specific applications, the possibility of entering this identifier to confirm that the Connectivity service is activated and linked to the DGT 3.0 platform during the contracted period (generally, those minimum 12 years required).

From the management side, the driver can use the DGT website or official mobile applications to verify that both the model and the type approval code are valid. Some solutions also allow verification that the beacon is transmitting a signal correctly when switched on, although in many cases this check is only accessible to traffic authorities.

One aspect that has generated considerable debate is the protection of personal data in the V16 systemThe Spanish Data Protection Agency has already clarified that these beacons cannot be used to identify the driver or to reconstruct the complete traceability of their movements. The system is limited to sending the position of the stationary vehicle while the light is active, strictly for road safety purposes.

The advantage of having a properly connected beacon is that, in addition to the signaling function, the device can receive Updates on homologation changes, model recalls, or safe use recommendationsIn this way, if the DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic) or the manufacturer detects any problem with a specific series, they can communicate it and keep the user informed throughout the appliance's useful life.

This entire connected V16 ecosystem is integrated into the DGT 3.0 network, which aims to vehicles, infrastructure and emergency services are permanently connectedWhen a beacon is activated on a roadside, its signal intersects with that of other sensors and systems, allowing real-time warnings to be displayed on road panels or even in some user navigation systems and applications.

Price, common brands and differences between models

The economic factor is one of the most practical filters when it comes to differentiating V16 devices connected to old or fake beaconsAs already mentioned, models without geolocation are around 20 euros, while truly approved lights with data service are usually between 40 and 50 euros per unit.

That amount includes not only the physical device, but also all the IoT connectivity infrastructure (eSIM, server, data network access, and regular communication with DGT 3.0) for over a decade, without the driver having to pay regular fees or intermediate renewals. If a connected beacon costs half the usual price, something's wrong with the equation.

The official DGT list includes both leading brands in the emergency accessories sector such as Help Flash, FlashLED, SOS Road, Netun Solutions, Wottoline (iWottoLight, FASELIGHT), SOSTRAFFIC, OSRAM, Philips, Erum Vial or Speed ​​Sound, as well as a long list of manufacturers and distributors who market their products under various names: Ledel Solutions, Limburg Technology, Premier Auto Accessory, Efficient Electricity, DONGGUAN Chong Guang Lighting, among others.

Often, the same beacon is offered with different brands or in collaboration with motoring clubs, insurance companies or car manufacturersThis is the case, for example, of FlashLED SOS V16 RACC or specific FlashLED SOS versions for SEAT, CUPRA and other brands; also of the OSRAM LEDguardian associated with BMW, AUDI and PORSCHE, all of them compiled in the DGT table with their respective LCOE or IDIADA codes.

In addition to generic models, devices designed as integrated solutions with additional servicesSome beacons are sold together with applications that allow you to manage assistance alerts, others include agreements with leasing companies or mobility services, and in some cases "plus" variants are offered with improvements in battery or connectivity.

From the perspective of the average user, it makes sense to prioritize the beacon appear on the DGT list, have your LCOE or IDIADA code clearly visible and offers the included connectivity for the entire mandatory period. From there, you can choose based on price, design, size, ease of use, or the trust you have in the brand or the workshop where you buy it.

Proper placement of the V16 to take advantage of its capacity

However good a beacon is, if it's not used correctly, its effectiveness drops dramatically. The DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic) and the manufacturers themselves insist that the device be placed in a high and visible area of ​​the vehicle, preferably on the roof, to achieve maximum visibility from all directions.

The idea is that the driver can activate the beacon without exposing yourself to trafficIdeally, this should be done from inside the vehicle: lower the window slightly, place the magnetic base on the roof or the upper door frame, and turn on the light, all before even leaving the car and, if possible, with the reflective vest already on.

If, due to height, physical conditions, or body type, it is not feasible to place it at the very top, the regulations stipulate that the The beacon can be fixed to another flat and stable surface.such as the hood, the top of the trunk in SUVs, or even the driver's door. The essential thing is that it doesn't blow away in the wind or get hidden behind railings, walls, or other road features.

It is always advisable to follow the Manufacturer's specific instructions on activation, securing and maintenanceSome models turn on automatically when placed on a metal surface, others require pressing a specific button, and some incorporate low battery indicators or test systems to check that everything is working correctly before the trip.

Used properly, the V16 becomes an integral part of the connected road safety networkIt signals the incident to other drivers, sends information to the DGT 3.0, enables variable message signs to warn of an immobilized vehicle, and helps emergency or assistance services to quickly locate the point.

In the same way that we keep up to date the tires, brakes, lights and regular workshop checksHaving a certified V16 beacon, connected and in good condition is a minimal investment that can make the difference between a scare and a serious accident when something goes wrong on the road.

Related article:

SOS Alert or MyIncidence: register and use your DGT-connected V16 beacon

He has a car with him V16 approved, with visible LCOE or IDIADA code, included in the DGT list and with real connectivity to DGT 3.0Make sure the IoT service duration is clearly stated and that it's properly documented in case of a breakdown or accident. By following these steps, you ensure you're traveling legally, avoid unnecessary fines, and, above all, truly improve your safety and the safety of those around you.

Isaac

Passionate writer about the world of bytes and technology in general. I love sharing my knowledge through writing, and that's what I'll do on this blog, show you all the most interesting things about gadgets, software, hardware, tech trends, and more. My goal is to help you navigate the digital world in a simple and entertaining way.