National Speed Limit

• 1965: A temporary 70 mphspeed limit was introduced on previous unrestricted roads and motorways for 4 months. This was extended and made permanent in 1967.
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The national speed limit in the UK varies depending on the type of vehicle and the road type. For cars, motorcycles, car-derived vans, and dual-purpose vehicles, the national speed limit is 70mph on motorways and dual carriageways with a central barrier, 60mph on single carriageways, and 30mph in built-up areas. When towing a trailer or caravan, the speed limit drops to 50mph on single carriageways and 60mph on dual carriageways and motorways. Here are the specific limits for different types of vehicles:

• Cars, motorcycles, car-derived vans, dual-purpose vehicles: 70mph on motorways and dual carriageways, 60mph on single carriageways, and 30mph in built-up areas.
• Cars towing a trailer or caravan: 50mph on single carriageways, 60mph on dual carriageways, and 60mph on motorways.
• Motorhomes or motor caravans under 3.05 tonnes max unladen weight: 70mph on dual carriageways and motorways, 60mph on single carriageways, and 30mph in built-up areas.
• Motorhomes or motor caravans over 3.05 tonnes max unladen weight: 60mph on dual carriageways and motorways, 50mph on single carriageways, and 30mph in built-up areas.
• Buses, coaches, and minibuses under 12m overall length: 70mph on motorways, 60mph on dual carriageways, and 50mph on single carriageways.
• Buses, coaches, and minibuses over 12m overall length: 60mph on motorways, 60mph on dual carriageways, and 50mph on single carriageways.
• Goods vehicles under 7.5 tonnes max laden weight: 70mph on motorways, 60mph on dual carriageways, and 50mph on single carriageways.
• Goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes max laden weight in England and Wales: 60mph on motorways, 60mph on dual carriageways, and 50mph on single carriageways.
• Goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes max laden weight in Scotland: 70mph on motorways, 50mph on dual carriageways, and 40mph on single carriageways.