--- title: "National Speed Limit Applies Sign | UK Road Signs" url: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/theory/road-signs/national-speed-limit description: "Learn the UK National Speed Limit sign meaning, Highway Code ref P.670, vehicle-specific speed limits, and theory test facts." lang: en --- # National speed limit applies — UK road sign This circular sign indicates that the UK national speed limit applies on the stretch of road ahead. Image: National speed limit applies — white and black circle UK road sign (https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/signs/national-speed-limit.svg) A white circular sign featuring a bold diagonal black stripe indicates that the national speed limit applies. Rather than displaying a specific number, this sign establishes speed limits determined by road type and vehicle classification. ## What this sign means The default national speed limit applies for your vehicle category on this road type. For standard cars and motorcycles, the maximum speed limit is 60 mph on single carriageways and 70 mph on dual carriageways and motorways. - White circle with a diagonal black stripe. - Single carriageways: 60 mph (cars/motorcycles). - Dual carriageways & motorways: 70 mph (cars/motorcycles). - Lower limits apply to vans, HGVs, and towing vehicles. ## What to do when you see it Accelerate smoothly up to a safe cruising speed appropriate for road and weather conditions, up to the maximum permitted limit for your vehicle. Remember that a speed limit is a maximum ceiling, not a target speed if conditions are poor. ## How this sign is tested Theory tests heavily feature this sign, testing exact speed limits across different vehicle types and road configurations. Questions often test the difference in limits between single and dual carriageways for cars towing caravans. ## Common mistakes Assuming the limit is always 60 mph or always 70 mph without considering whether the road is single or dual carriageway. Forgetting that lower speed limits apply to vans, lorries, and vehicles towing trailers. ## Test yourself on this one Road and traffic signs is the biggest category in the question bank with 102 questions, and signs turn up inside other categories too. Work through them free, no sign-up needed. Practise road sign questions (https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/theory/practice) ## Frequently asked questions What is the national speed limit for a car on a single carriageway? The limit is 60 mph for standard passenger cars and motorcycles. What is the national speed limit for a car towing a trailer on a dual carriageway? The limit is 60 mph (reduced from 70 mph due to towing). How do I distinguish a dual carriageway from a single carriageway? A dual carriageway features a physical central reservation (guardrail or grass strip) separating opposing traffic streams. ## Passed your theory? Get the practical booked Your theory certificate lasts two years. Most learners who use it quickly do it with an intensive course — a block of hours with a DVSA approved instructor and a practical test at the end, instead of one lesson a week for months. 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