Van Speed Limits in the UK

When you’re driving a van, be it for business, deliveries or leisure, knowing the correct speed limits is crucial. Vans are subject to slightly different rules than cars in certain cases and exceeding these limits can lead to fines, penalty points or even a suspended licence. This guide explains the current UK speed limits for vans, how they differ from cars and special cases you should watch out for.

UK Speed Limits

The UK government publishes standard speed limits that apply to most roads. These are the starting point, though local signage or road classification may override them.

For vans (typically those up to 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle weight), the general speed limits are:

Road Type

Speed Limit for Vans

Notes / Comparisons

Built-up / street-lit areas

30 mph

Same as cars in these zones

Single carriageways (National Speed Limit)

50 mph

10 mph lower than cars, which can do 60 mph

Dual carriageways

60 mph

Vans are limited to 60 mph where cars can do 70 mph

Motorways

70 mph

Same as cars (for vans up to 3.5 t, not towing)

When And Why The Limits Differ

Car‑derived vans / dual-purpose vehicles

Some vans (especially small, car‑derived models) may qualify to follow general car speed limits in certain conditions. This depends on weight, design, and vehicle classification.

Towing trailers, loaded weight or over 3.5 t

If a van is towing a trailer, or is heavier than 3.5 tonnes total, lower maximum speeds may apply:

  • On single carriageways, the 50 mph limit still applies for many vans with trailers
  • On dual carriageways, the limit may drop below 60 mph when towing
  • On motorways, many vans towing trailers are restricted to 60 mph instead of 70 mph

Always check your van’s handbook or the V5C for towing / laden weight limits which might impose lower speed limits.

Local Variations & Exceptional Cases

Wales: 20 mph in built-up zones

As of September 2023, Wales introduced a default 20 mph speed limit in street-lit or built-up areas, replacing the previous 30 mph standard.

Transfer / campervan classification

Sometimes, vans converted into campervans or motorhomes may retain their original “van” classification in legal terms even if they look different. That means they are still bound by van speed limits unless officially re-classified.

Local or posted limits override defaults

If a road sign states a lower (or occasionally higher) speed limit, that sign takes precedence. Always obey the posted limit.

Why These Different Limits Exist

  1. Safety and braking capacity - Vans may have longer stopping distances, higher centres of gravity, and heavier loads
  2. Stability, handling and load shifts - At higher speeds, any load shifts or crosswinds affect vans more
  3. Wear and tear and insurance risk - Driving at high speeds increases stress on the vehicle and can influence insurance or breakdown claims

Tips For Van Drivers

  • Always know your van’s gross weight, load and towing status
  • Refer to your vehicle handbook for manufacturer‑recommended limits or restrictions
  • Be alert for signage that reduces speed (e.g. 40 mph, 20 mph zones)
  • Avoid assuming a van can match car speeds on dual carriageways
  • If you convert a van (e.g. to a camper), seek reclassification if applicable for more favourable limits

Van speed limits in the UK are slightly lower than for cars in many situations. On single carriageways and dual carriageways, vans must travel more cautiously. On motorways, they generally match car speeds unless towing or exceeding weight limits. Local rules like Wales’ 20 mph zones further complicate matters.

If you’re in the market for a used van, or need help with compliance, Big Van World can guide you through specifications.