Controlling your speed and sticking to the limits

Driving too fast is one of the main reasons people fail their restricted test. It’s also the leading cause of crashes in Aotearoa.

The speed limit is the maximum speed you can drive at in good conditions. Never go faster than the speed limit.

Adjusting your speed

• You should slow down before reaching a speed sign indicating a lower speed limit.
• You can speed up after you pass a sign for a higher speed limit.
• Some speed limits for the same piece of road can change at different times of the day. This can be due to weather or traffic conditions (eg school zones and motorways).
• When driving through roadworks, keep a look out for any temporary speed limit signs. You need to slow down before you reach the signs.
• When driving on a road with no centreline. Travel at a speed that that gives you time to stop in half the length of clear road you can see in front of you.
• When driving on a road with a centreline. Travel at a speed that that gives you time to stop in the length of clear road you can see in front of you.

Choosing the right speed

• Consider traffic, weather, hazards and road conditions when choosing what speed to drive.
• Travelling at the right speed for the conditions means you’ll be able to stop safely at any time.