HGV Speed Limits UK 2026: Complete Guide for Lorry Drivers
Speed limits for HGVs (heavy goods vehicles) in the UK are different from those for cars and light vans. Understanding the correct limits for your vehicle type and the road you are on is a legal requirement — and getting it wrong can result in a fixed penalty, a court summons, or worse. This guide covers all HGV speed limits in the UK, including the rules for different vehicle weights and road types.
Why Are HGV Speed Limits Different?
HGVs have longer stopping distances, greater mass, and a higher risk of serious injury in a collision than lighter vehicles. The lower speed limits for lorries reflect these physical realities and are designed to reduce the severity of accidents involving large vehicles. The limits are set by the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 and the Highway Code.
HGV Speed Limits by Road Type
| Road Type | Cars & Light Vans | HGVs over 7.5t | HGVs 3.5t–7.5t |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motorway | 70 mph | 60 mph | 70 mph |
| Dual carriageway | 70 mph | 60 mph | 70 mph |
| Single carriageway | 60 mph | 50 mph | 60 mph |
| Built-up area (30 mph zone) | 30 mph | 30 mph | 30 mph |
Note: HGVs over 7.5 tonnes have a lower national speed limit on motorways and dual carriageways (60 mph vs 70 mph for cars). On single carriageways, the limit for HGVs over 7.5t is 50 mph vs 60 mph for cars. Vehicles between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes (including C1 vehicles) are subject to the same limits as cars on most road types.
Speed Limiters
All HGVs over 3.5 tonnes registered after 1 January 1988 must be fitted with a speed limiter set to a maximum of 90 km/h (approximately 56 mph). This means that even on a motorway where the legal limit for HGVs is 60 mph (96 km/h), the speed limiter will prevent the vehicle from exceeding 90 km/h. The speed limiter does not override the legal speed limit — you must still comply with lower limits such as 50 mph on single carriageways.
Towing a Trailer
If your HGV is towing a trailer, the speed limits are the same as for the tractor unit alone. The speed limiter requirement also applies to the combination. However, if you are driving an articulated lorry (C+E), the 60 mph motorway limit applies to the whole combination.
Variable Speed Limits
On smart motorways and some major roads, variable speed limits are displayed on overhead gantries. These apply to all vehicles, including HGVs. When a variable limit is displayed, it overrides the national speed limit for that section of road. Failure to comply with a variable speed limit is an offence.
Speed Limit Enforcement
HGV speed limit compliance is monitored by fixed and mobile speed cameras, police patrols, and tachograph analysis. DVSA enforcement officers can download and analyse tachograph data at the roadside. Exceeding the speed limit in an HGV can result in a fixed penalty of £100 and 3 penalty points, or a court summons for more serious offences with fines of up to £2,500.
Tips for Compliance
Always know the speed limit for the road you are on and your vehicle type. Use your tachograph to monitor your speed. Be aware that the speed limiter prevents you from reaching the legal maximum on motorways — plan journey times accordingly. Never exceed the posted limit, even if your vehicle's speed limiter would allow it.
For more information on HGV regulations, see our guides on tachograph rules and drivers' hours rules.
