Pass the Exam easily with Premium Practice Tests | Unlock All with 7 Days Plan 
Offer Ends in 
English 
Spanish 
Speed Limits and Control
- 1/25If you are driving through a residential street in Montana, the maximum speed limit is
In most Montana residential zones, the default limit is 25 mph. This helps protect pedestrians and residential traffic. Signs may still lower it further.
When driving through a city business district
Urban areas require slower speeds due to crosswalks, traffic, and intersections. Always check for signs that lower it.
At a rural two lane undivided highway
Montana permits up to 70 mph on some rural roads. However, curves, animals, or bad roads may require less.
While driving on an interstate outside city limits
Some Montana interstates allow 80 mph in rural areas. You must still reduce speed during poor conditions.
On a rural interstate within city boundaries
When within city limits, interstates have reduced limits. The environment and population density demand slower driving.
If you approach a curve marked with a yellow sign
Advisory signs warn of safe speed on curves. Exceeding them increases the risk of skidding or rollovers.
At a school zone during posted hours
Montana school zones usually enforce 15-20 mph during specific times. This ensures safety for students crossing.
If workers are present in a construction zone
Construction zones in Montana post temporary reduced speeds. Penalties for violations are often higher here.
While entering a highway exit ramp with a sharp bend
Exit ramps may post speeds as low as 25 to 35 mph. Taking them too fast may cause you to lose control.
During a foggy early morning on open roads
In poor visibility, drivers must adjust speed for conditions. The law requires you to drive safely, even under the limit.
When black ice is suspected in winter
Montana roads are prone to ice. You must reduce speed even on highways to prevent sliding or collisions.
While descending a long, steep mountain road
Speed control is crucial on steep grades. Relying only on brakes may cause them to overheat or fail.
When entering a town from a high speed road
Speed transitions are clearly marked before towns. Failing to slow in time can result in heavy fines.
At temporary electronic speed signs near road work
Variable signs often change based on hazard or work hours. The displayed limit is legally enforceable.
While driving near parks or playgrounds
Areas with children require slower speeds, even without marked school zones. Slow driving ensures better reaction time.
On gravel or unpaved county roads
Gravel roads require slower travel due to loose surfaces and reduced grip. Go slower in curves and hills.
If snowplows are operating on a highway
You must reduce speed when approaching snowplows. Stay far enough behind to avoid thrown debris and low visibility.
While merging onto an interstate from an on ramp
You should increase speed to merge safely. Entering too slow may cause collisions or traffic disruption.
At narrow mountain passes or switchbacks
These roads may not have posted limits but require speeds as low as 10-15 mph due to blind spots and drop offs.
While driving in high winds on open plains
Montana is open roads face strong winds. You must lower speed to maintain control, especially with trailers.
When a sign indicates Reduced Speed Ahead
These signs give time to safely decelerate before the reduced limit starts. Sudden braking may cause accidents.
During heavy rain with puddles or flooding
Hydroplaning can occur at legal speeds. Adjusting speed for wet roads is essential to maintain tire grip.
On icy bridges in winter mornings
Bridges freeze before roadways. Reduce speed to prevent sliding when crossing them, even if roads seem clear.
If following behind slow farm equipment
Slow zones are not always marked, but caution is needed. Farm vehicles often travel under 25 mph and may turn unexpectedly.
When no speed limit is posted on a local road
In Montana, unposted roads default to 25-55 mph depending on the area. Always judge based on surroundings and surface.