Pass the Exam easily with Premium Practice Tests | Unlock All with 7 Days Plan 
Offer Ends in 
English 
Spanish 
Speed Limits and Controls
- 1/15If driving in a residential or business district
Arizona law sets a default speed of 25 MPH in residential and business areas to ensure safety for pedestrians and local traffic.
If driving in a school zone while children are present
School zones require drivers to reduce speed to 15 MPH during posted hours or when children are present. Hefty fines apply for violations.
When driving on an open highway (non-interstate)
Arizona permits 65 MPH on most open highways unless otherwise posted. Drive cautiously through curves and elevation changes.
If driving on an interstate highway in rural areas
The maximum speed on rural interstates in Arizona is typically 75 MPH for passenger vehicles unless lower limits are posted.
If driving on an urban interstate freeway
Speed limits in metropolitan areas like Phoenix or Tucson are usually 65 MPH to accommodate high traffic volumes.
When approaching a school crossing with no crossing guard
Even without a crossing guard, Arizona requires slowing to 15 MPH in school zones during posted times when signs indicate.
When you see a Road Work Ahead warning sign
Road Work Ahead means you’re approaching a work zone. Begin slowing down, stay alert for workers or machinery, and watch for sudden lane shifts or closures.
When driving through an alley
Alleys in Arizona have a low limit of 15 MPH due to tight spaces, poor visibility, and possible pedestrian activity.
When approaching a railroad crossing
Arizona drivers should reduce speed when nearing railroad tracks and be prepared to stop if a train is approaching.
If no speed limit sign is posted on a roadway
Default limits are 25 MPH in residential/business areas and 65 MPH on open highways. Adjust for safety conditions.
When visibility is poor due to fog or dust storms
Arizona dust storms and monsoons require drivers to slow significantly, or even pull off the road if needed.
When towing a trailer on a freeway
While limits allow up to 75 MPH, towing vehicles should drive slower for safety and stability. Watch for posted truck limits.
When entering a roundabout
Arizona roundabouts are designed for low speeds. Yield to circulating traffic and enter cautiously.
When approaching stopped emergency vehicles
Arizona’s Move Over law requires slowing down and changing lanes when passing emergency or disabled vehicles.
When traffic is heavy and stop-and-go
In heavy traffic, it’s often safer and legally required to go below the limit. Maintain safe following distance and avoid rapid lane changes.