Speed Limits in Spain: Complete Guide for the DGT Exam
Spain's speed limits depend on the road type and vehicle category. On motorways, the limit is 120 km/h. On conventional roads outside cities, it is 90 km/h. In urban areas, limits are 20, 30, or 50 km/h depending on lane configuration. Speed limit questions appear on every DGT exam.
Speed Limits by Road Type
| Road Type | Cars | Motorcycles | Novice Drivers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motorway (autopista/autovía) | 120 km/h | 120 km/h | 100 km/h |
| Conventional road (2+ lanes per direction) | 100 km/h | 100 km/h | 90 km/h |
| Conventional road (1 lane per direction) | 90 km/h | 90 km/h | 80 km/h |
| Urban (2+ lanes per direction) | 50 km/h | 50 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Urban (1 lane per direction) | 30 km/h | 30 km/h | 30 km/h |
| Urban (shared pedestrian) | 20 km/h | 20 km/h | 20 km/h |
Urban Speed Limits (Updated 2021)
In May 2021, Spain introduced new urban speed limits based on road configuration. Single-lane urban roads are now limited to 30 km/h (previously 50 km/h). Roads with two or more lanes per direction remain at 50 km/h. Single-platform roads with shared pedestrian space are limited to 20 km/h. This change affects the majority of urban streets and is frequently tested on the DGT exam. Make sure your study materials reflect the current 2021 rules.
Motorway and Dual Carriageway Speed Limits
Autopistas (toll motorways) and autovías (free motorways) share the same speed limit of 120 km/h for cars. The minimum speed on motorways is 60 km/h — driving below this is an offence unless traffic conditions require it. Novice drivers (first year) must not exceed 100 km/h on motorways. Hard shoulder driving is only permitted in specific circumstances and at reduced speed.
When Speed Limits Are Reduced
Several conditions require reduced speed: rain or wet roads (reduce by approximately 20%), fog or low visibility (adjust to visibility distance), towing a vehicle or trailer (maximum 70 km/h on motorways), and driving near schools or hospitals where specific lower limits are posted. The DGT exam frequently tests knowledge of when standard limits change due to conditions.
Speed Limits for Other Vehicle Types
Trucks and buses have lower speed limits than cars. Trucks over 3,500 kg: 90 km/h on motorways, 80 km/h on conventional roads. Buses: 100 km/h on motorways. Vehicles towing trailers: 70 km/h on motorways. The Permit B exam may include questions about these limits since you need to understand the speed differences when sharing the road.
Minimum Speed Limits
On motorways, the minimum speed is 60 km/h (half the maximum of 120). On conventional roads, there is no general minimum, but driving unreasonably slowly that impedes traffic flow is an offence. Some roads display specific minimum speed signs (blue circular signs with a white number). End-of-minimum-speed signs feature a red diagonal line.
Speeding Penalties in Spain
Speeding fines range from €100 to €600 depending on how much you exceed the limit. Exceeding by 20 km/h or less is a minor offence (€100). Exceeding by 21-30 km/h costs €300. Exceeding by 31-40 km/h costs €400. Exceeding by 41-50 km/h costs €500 and point deductions. Above 50 km/h over the limit on urban roads (or 60+ on other roads) is a criminal offence with potential licence suspension and imprisonment.
Tips for Speed Limit Questions on the DGT Exam
Memorise the table of limits by road type — it appears on almost every exam. Pay attention to the 2021 urban changes. Remember novice driver reductions. Know when conditions require speed reduction. The exam often presents scenarios combining road type, weather conditions, and vehicle type to test whether you can determine the correct speed limit.