LAutoviaTest
QuizLessonsHazard PerceptionHow It WorksPricingBlog
Sign InGet Started Free
  1. Home
  2. Blog
  3. Portugal Speed Limits Guide
🇵🇹 PortugalRoad Rules & Regulations

Portugal Speed Limits Guide

Mastering Urban, Rural, and Highway Speed Zones in Portugal

February 15, 2026·4 min read
Welcome to Portugal, a country with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a well-developed road network. As a driver in Portugal, it's essential to understand the country's speed limits, road rules, and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover the speed limits in Portugal, including urban, rural, and highway speed zones, as well as provide practical tips and advice for drivers. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced driver, this guide will help you navigate Portugal's roads with confidence.
1

Understanding Speed Limits in Portugal

Portugal has a well-organized road network with clear speed limit signs. The speed limits in Portugal are as follows: urban areas have a speed limit of 50km/h, rural areas have a speed limit of 90km/h, and highways have a speed limit of 120km/h. It's essential to note that these speed limits are in place to ensure road safety and reduce the risk of accidents. Additionally, Portugal has a unique system of toll roads, known as the Via Verde system, which requires drivers to pay tolls at designated points.
2

Urban Speed Limits in Portugal

Urban areas in Portugal have a speed limit of 50km/h, which applies to all roads within city limits. However, some urban areas may have designated speed zones with lower speed limits, such as 30km/h or 40km/h. It's crucial to pay attention to speed limit signs and adjust your speed accordingly. For example, if you're driving in a residential area, you may need to reduce your speed to 30km/h to ensure the safety of pedestrians and other road users.
3

Rural Speed Limits in Portugal

Rural areas in Portugal have a speed limit of 90km/h, which applies to all roads outside of urban areas. However, some rural roads may have designated speed zones with lower speed limits, such as 60km/h or 80km/h. It's essential to be aware of your surroundings and adjust your speed according to the road conditions. For instance, if you're driving on a winding rural road, you may need to reduce your speed to 60km/h to avoid accidents.
4

Highway Speed Limits in Portugal

Highways in Portugal have a speed limit of 120km/h, which applies to all highways and motorways. However, some highways may have designated speed zones with lower speed limits, such as 100km/h or 110km/h. It's crucial to pay attention to speed limit signs and adjust your speed accordingly. For example, if you're driving on a highway with a speed limit of 100km/h, you should not exceed this speed limit to avoid fines and penalties.
5

Additional Road Rules and Regulations in Portugal

In addition to speed limits, Portugal has several other road rules and regulations that drivers should be aware of. For example, the use of reflective vests and warning triangles is mandatory in certain situations, such as when driving at night or in low-visibility conditions. Additionally, drivers should be aware of the country's alcohol limit, which is 0.5g/L for experienced drivers and 0.2g/L for new drivers. It's also essential to know the emergency number in Portugal, which is 112.

💡 Pro Tip: Adjusting to Speed Limits in Portugal

When driving in Portugal, it's essential to adjust to the local speed limits and road conditions. Take your time to get familiar with the road network, and don't hesitate to ask for help if you're unsure about any road rules or regulations. Additionally, make sure to check your vehicle's speedometer regularly to ensure you're not exceeding the speed limit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the speed limits in Portugal?▼
The speed limits in Portugal are as follows: urban areas have a speed limit of 50km/h, rural areas have a speed limit of 90km/h, and highways have a speed limit of 120km/h.
Do I need to pay tolls when driving on highways in Portugal?▼
Yes, Portugal has a system of toll roads, known as the Via Verde system, which requires drivers to pay tolls at designated points.
What is the emergency number in Portugal?▼
The emergency number in Portugal is 112.
Are there any specific road rules or regulations I should be aware of when driving in Portugal?▼
Yes, Portugal has several road rules and regulations that drivers should be aware of, including the use of reflective vests and warning triangles, and the country's alcohol limit.
How can I ensure my safety while driving in Portugal?▼
To ensure your safety while driving in Portugal, make sure to follow the speed limits, wear your seatbelt, and avoid driving when tired or under the influence of alcohol.

Ready to Ace Your Driving Test?

Everything you need to pass on your first attempt

📝

30+ Practice Tests

Real exam questions

T

Tess AI Coach

Personalized guidance

📚

16 Lessons

Interactive learning

📊

Progress Tracking

Performance insights

Start Practicing Free→
#portugal speed limits#urban speed#highway speed#speed zones#road rules#driving in portugal
← Back to Blog
LAutoviaTest

Your global partner for driving test preparation. Pass your test with confidence.

Follow us on YouTubeFollow us on InstagramFollow us on TikTok

Learning Resources

  • Practice Quiz
  • Lessons
  • Practice Tests
  • Pricing
  • Blog

For Schools

  • For Driving Schools
  • School Login
  • Get in Touch

Resources

  • Driving Test
  • Test Guides
  • Road Safety
  • Road Safety for Business
  • Road Safety Certification Protocol (RSCP)
  • Road Signs
  • FAQ
  • International Driving Guide
  • Driving in Europe
  • Driving in United States
  • Expat License Guide
  • Traffic Law Reports
  • Driving Schools
  • 2026 Rule Changes

License Types

  • Car License (B)
  • Motorcycle License (A)
  • Truck License (C)
  • Bus License (D)
  • Moped License (AM)
  • View All License Types →

City Guides

  • Barcelona
  • Paris
  • Rome
  • London
  • Bangkok
  • Tokyo
  • View All City Guides →

Popular Cities

  • Madrid
  • Barcelona
  • Paris
  • Berlin
  • Rome
  • London
  • View All Cities →

Hazard Perception

  • Spain
  • France
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
  • Portugal
  • United Kingdom
  • Poland
  • Switzerland
  • Denmark
  • Sweden

Legal

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • Cookie Policy
  • Editorial Guidelines
  • Contact Us

AutoviaTest is an independent educational platform. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any official government driving test agency (including but not limited to driving test Spain, DVSA UK, or DMV USA). The practice tests, questions, and materials provided on this platform are for educational and preparation purposes only. They are designed to help you prepare for your official driving test but do not guarantee passing results. Always refer to your official testing agency for the most current test requirements and information.

© 2026 AutoviaTest. All rights reserved.