Speed Limits and Controls
- 1/20If you are traveling on a rural interstate, your maximum speed limit is
On rural interstates, the maximum speed for passenger vehicles is usually 70 MPH unless otherwise posted.
When using an urban interstate or freeway, the legal speed limit is
Urban freeways often have reduced speed limits due to higher traffic volumes and more entry/exit points.
If you drive on a two-lane undivided rural highway, the typical speed limit is
Two-lane highways outside urban areas typically have a 55 MPH limit unless marked otherwise.
If you are in a residential area
Residential streets prioritize pedestrian safety, and 30 MPH is the standard unless signs indicate a lower limit.
When entering a school zone, then you must
Watch for flashing lights and children fines increase for speeding in active school zones.
If you are in an alley
Alleys have very low limits due to limited visibility and pedestrian activity.
When approaching or driving through a construction zone, you must
Work zones may have speed limits reduced by 10 to 20 MPH. Always watch for workers and equipment.
If conditions are icy or visibility is low then
Minnesota law requires adjusting speed based on road and weather conditions, even below the posted limit.
When approaching railroad crossing then
Trains cannot stop quickly. Always approach crossings with caution, obey warning signals, and be ready to stop even if no train is immediately visible.
If you are towing a trailer on the highway, you must
Large or loaded vehicles may be restricted to slower speeds for safety and control.
When passing on a two-lane highway
You must not exceed the speed limit when overtaking another vehicle. Plan the pass with visibility and space.
If no speed limit sign is posted in a city then
Urban areas default to 30 MPH when no specific sign is posted. Always confirm with local traffic signs.
When driving on a gravel or dirt road
Loose surfaces increase stopping distance and reduce control. Drive cautiously, especially after rain.
If you are driving near bicyclists or pedestrians, then you must
Minnesota law prioritizes vulnerable road users. Yield and reduce speed when near crosswalks or bikes.
When merging onto a highway, you must
Merge at a safe and legal speed. Sudden changes can cause crashes or impede flow. Use the acceleration lane.
When you are exiting a freeway
Exits may have curve warnings or speed signs. Slow down safely in advance to avoid skidding.
When driving near a park or playground
These areas have unpredictable foot traffic. Reduce speed to 15/25 MPH even if not posted.
If your vision is limited due to fog or darkness then
Safe driving requires seeing clearly. Drive slower to allow more reaction time in low-visibility situations.
When following another vehicle at night, you must
Tailgating is especially risky in darkness. Slower speeds help maintain control and visibility.
When you are approaching a curve or hill
Hills and curves can hide hazards or vehicles. Slower speeds ensure better reaction time and lane control.