Highway driving

Motorway Driving Rules in the UK 2025

Quick answer

UK motorways have a 70 mph (113 km/h) speed limit. Smart motorways use variable speed limits shown on overhead gantries. Learner drivers can now use motorways with an instructor.

Last updated:
An open notebook with a roundabout drawn on it, a small blue car on the ring and a pen beside it.AutoviaTest.com
Table of contents

Motorway driving in the UK

Speed limits

VehicleLimit
Cars70 mph
With trailer60 mph
Goods vehicles60 mph
Showing 1–3 of 3

Smart motorways

  • Variable speed limits on gantries
  • Red X = lane closed
  • Emergency refuges instead of hard shoulder

Rules

  • Keep left except when overtaking
  • No stopping except emergencies
  • No U-turns or reversing
  • Minimum speed awareness

Want to practice for your driving test?

Free practice tests with questions on topics like this one.

Start practicing

Pass your driving test on the first try

Join thousands of learners who prepare with official-style practice tests, progress tracking, and expert explanations

Start practicing now