Speed and distance
Speed is not just the number on the sign. The limit sets a ceiling, but you pick the real speed from the conditions — and always keep enough distance to stop.
Limits by area
In built-up areas — up to 50 km/h; in residential zones, apartment-block courtyards, and fuel-station and parking areas — 20 km/h; outside built-up areas — up to 90 km/h (Road Traffic Regulations, para. 101). On expressways and elsewhere, follow the signs or check the current figure on CSDD.
Speed for the conditions
Choose your speed for the traffic, the road and the weather, especially the visibility ahead (para. 99). If you spot a hazard, slow down or stop (para. 100).
A sign changes the limit
Where a speed sign is posted, the figure on it applies (para. 102). It can be lower or higher than the general limit — trust the sign, not an assumption.
Safe following distance
Keep a distance that lets you avoid a collision if the car ahead brakes (para. 105). Braking distance grows with speed: the faster you go, the bigger the gap you need.
Real-world situations
Rain, poor visibility, the limit is 50 km/h.
50 is the maximum, but you must adjust to the conditions (para. 99). Slow down enough to stop safely — even well below 50 if needed.
You enter an apartment-block courtyard or a parking area.
Speed is up to 20 km/h (para. 101). Expect pedestrians and cyclists to use the full width of the carriageway.
Outside town, a sign by the road shows 70.
The sign applies — 70 km/h (para. 102). Don't assume you may do 90; the sign changes the limit.
Common mistakes
Treating the limit as a target regardless of the weather.
The limit is a ceiling, not a duty. Choose a speed you can control (para. 99).
Forgetting the 20 km/h rule in courtyards and fuel stations.
In these areas the speed is 20 km/h (para. 101) — even if the road looks wide and empty.
Driving right behind the car ahead at the limit.
Keep a distance so you don't collide if the car in front brakes (para. 105).
Key takeaways
- Town 50, residential zone and courtyard 20, outside town 90 (para. 101).
- A sign can change the limit — follow the sign (para. 102).
- The limit is a maximum; choose your speed for the conditions (para. 99).
- Keep enough distance to stop if the car ahead brakes (para. 105).
Check yourself
You enter an apartment-block courtyard. What is the maximum permitted speed?
Heavy rain, the limit is 50 km/h, visibility is poor. What is the correct speed?
Outside a built-up area, no speed signs. What is the general limit?
Before you press the accelerator
- In town — no more than 50 km/h
- In a residential zone, courtyard, fuel station or parking area — 20 km/h
- Outside built-up areas — 90 km/h, unless a sign says otherwise
- On expressways and other roads, follow the signs
- Choose your speed for the conditions and keep a safe distance
Frequent questions
What speed is allowed on an expressway?
On roads with the expressway sign (552) — up to 120 km/h for cars, and in winter (1 December – 1 March) 110 km/h. Either way, always go by the signs.
May I drive slower than the limit?
Yes, speed is adjusted to the conditions (para. 99). But driving needlessly slowly and obstructing traffic is forbidden (para. 104).
Does the 20 km/h rule apply at fuel stations?
Yes. In fuel-station and parking areas the speed is 20 km/h (para. 101).
Exam prep with Roman
Theory is half the job. Roman finds your weak spots and runs a lesson in exam format.
CSDD exam preparation →CSN practice test
Official CSDD sample exam questions.
Open the CSN test →Official CSDD information
Current rules, conditions and exam booking.
Go to CSDD →Other theory topics
Prepare for theory with an instructor
Roman explains the logic behind the rules and works through your specific weak spots — so theory isn't rote memorisation.