Advisory and mandatory speed limits and signs

In order to pass the UK practical driving test, it is of course essential to understand all the various road signs. Part of the driving test routes contained within your driving test will involve many mandatory speed limits and may possibly have advisory speed limits.




Although easily distinguishable from each other, those that do not understand their various meanings could hinder their chances of passing. Detailed below are mandatory speed limits (those that must be obeyed by law) and advisory speed limits, (those put in place due to hazards.

Mandatory speed limits and signs

All road signs that utilize the circular red ring are mandatory, or road signs giving orders. A motorists must abide by the instructions given in these regulatory signs to remain within the law.

Some regulatory road signs are incorporated into other signs such as the temporary yellow road works sign which contains the width restriction regulatory sign.

For further information, see order road signs for the various types of regulatory UK road signs and their meanings.

Minimum speed limits

The vast majority of UK roads do not have minimum speed limit restrictions on them. Those that do impose such restrictions do so to ensure a continuous and steady flow of traffic to reduce potential hazards and accidents.

A likely road for a minimum speed limit is a tunnel. Minimum speed limits are mandatory.

For further information, see minimum speed limits and driving too slow for the laws on driving too slow and how it can affect the driving test.

Motorway advisory and mandatory speed limit signs and signals

Certain motorways use a system called Active Traffic Management (ATM). In these locations motorway light signals placed at the side of the carriageway or overhead.

Variable speed limits that are contained in a red ring are mandatory. Other speed limit signs that have flashing amber lights are based on weather conditions and are advisory.

For further information on the various motorway signs, rules and regulations, see motorways.

Advisory speed limits

Advisory speed limits are used on a stretch of road that is potentially hazardous. The location of an advisory maximum speed limit sign varies, but can often be seen on harsh bends.

As the advisory speed limit is not contained within a red ring, it is the motorists choice of whether they obey the advised speed limit or not, providing they do not exceed the maximum regulatory speed limit.

A motorists should take weather conditions, road and traffic conditions and the severity of the potential hazard into account to base an appropriate speed.