California Speed Limits & Basic Speed Law
Speed limits in California are either posted (statutory) or implied by the Basic Speed Law. Understanding both is critical for the knowledge test and for safe driving.
The Basic Speed Law
California's Basic Speed Law states that you may never drive faster than is safe for current conditions, regardless of the posted speed limit. Even if the limit is 65 mph, if road conditions (rain, fog, heavy traffic) make that speed unsafe, you must slow down. You can be cited for unsafe speed even when driving below the posted limit.
Prima Facie Speed Limits
These are default limits that apply unless otherwise posted: 15 mph — at railroad crossings when you can't see 400 feet in both directions, in alleys, and where roads intersect at blind intersections (if there's no stop sign); 25 mph — in business and residential districts, and within 500 feet of a school while children are present; 65 mph — on most California highways and freeways.
Special Speed Zones
School zones are typically 25 mph when children are present. Some school zones drop to 15 mph with active school crossing guards. Senior and blind pedestrian safety zones also have reduced speed limits when posted. The maximum speed on most California freeways is 65 mph; some designated highways allow 70 mph.
Key Rules at a Glance
- Basic Speed Law: Never faster than safe for conditions, regardless of posted limit
- Residential district: 25 mph unless posted otherwise
- School zone: 25 mph when children are present
- Alley speed limit: 15 mph
- Most freeways: 65 mph maximum