Regulatory signs
Speed Limit sign
The maximum legal speed in good conditions. You may need to go slower when conditions are poor.
What it looks like
White vertical rectangle with black letters reading SPEED LIMIT 55.
- Type
- Regulatory
- Federal design code
- MUTCD R2-1
From real handbooks
How permit tests ask about it
18 of our verified questions in 18 states show this sign. A few of them, each from a different handbook where we can:
1.You see this sign while driving in heavy snow. What should you do?
- AIgnore it until the snow stops
- BDrive faster to get out of the storm
- CDrive slower than the posted number
- DDrive at the posted number, since it is the limit
Show the answer
✓ C. Drive slower than the posted number
Maximum speed limits are set for ideal conditions. You must reduce your speed when conditions, like snow, require it.
Source: Colorado Driver Handbook (DR 2337) (DR 2337), page 10
2.What does this sign show?
- AThe fastest legal speed
- BThe suggested speed
- CThe average speed
- DThe minimum speed
Show the answer
✓ A. The fastest legal speed
A speed limit sign gives the highest speed allowed; some are electronic and can change.
Source: Oregon Driver Manual 2026-2027 (Form 735-37) (2026 - 2027), page 16
3.What does this sign tell you?
- AA speed limit for trucks only
- BA suggested speed for the next curve
- CThe top legal speed in normal conditions
- DThe lowest speed allowed on this road
Show the answer
✓ C. The top legal speed in normal conditions
A SPEED LIMIT sign gives the legal limit, which is set for normal conditions. In bad weather you must slow below it.
Source: Nevada Driver's Handbook (DMV 700) (DMV 700 March 2024), page 35