Speed Limits and Control - Finland Driving Test

If you are driving in a built-up area without signs

In urban areas, the default speed limit is 50 km/h unless signage indicates otherwise.

If you drive on a rural road with no speed signs

The general speed limit outside urban areas is 80 km/h unless otherwise indicated by signs.

When motorway conditions are ideal in summer

Motorways generally allow up to 110 km/h, although seasonal changes may apply.

If you drive on a motorway in winter (Oct to Mar)

In winter, motorway limits are often reduced to 100 km/h for safety due to weather conditions.

When entering a residential neighborhood

Residential zones often have a 30 km/h limit to enhance safety for pedestrians.

If you enter a construction zone with no visible signs

Drivers are expected to reduce speed and drive cautiously even without specific signs.

When heavy snow covers a rural 80 km/h road

Finnish law requires speed adaptation to conditions, not just posted limits.

When driving near schools during active hours

School zones are typically limited to 30 km/h to protect children.

If a digital sign shows 80 km/h due to fog

Electronic signs override fixed ones during special conditions like fog.

When visibility drops on a rural road

Visibility and safety take priority over posted speed in poor weather.

If multiple speed signs appear close together

The most recent posted sign overrides earlier ones unless otherwise stated.

When towing a trailer on the motorway

The maximum allowed for cars with trailers on any road is 80 km/h.

If you overtake on a 100 km/h road

Finnish law strictly prohibits speeding, even for overtaking maneuvers.

When approaching speed bumps

Traffic-calming designs physically encourage lower speeds without the need for strict policing.

If you are in a wild animal zone

These areas have lower limits to protect both animals and drivers from sudden animal crossings. Signs alert drivers in advance to slow down and stay alert for wildlife.

When road conditions become unsafe

Braking should be gradual and suited to road grip to prevent skidding or loss of control. In emergencies, controlled braking helps avoid overcorrection or accidents.

If your vehicle speeds downhill unintentionally

On icy or wet roads, cruise control may cause wheelspin or delay braking response. Manual control ensures better responsiveness and safer deceleration.

If roads are slippery or icy

Slow driving is allowed but must not hinder normal traffic flow or create hazards. Drivers going too slow without reason may be fined or stopped.

If you are driving 40 km/h in a 60 km/h zone safely

Speeding fines usually account for a small margin of error, typically 5 km/h.

If you are slightly over the limit

Trams usually follow standard urban limits unless posted otherwise.

When driving in areas with tram traffic

Temporary limits can be enforced for safety and crowd control.

Spedlimit near a stadium during an event

E-scooters have a legal top speed of 25 km/h, regardless of road speed.

If riding an e-scooter on public roads

Any visible speed limit sign takes precedence over default rules.

If a road sign contradicts default rules

Speed or access may be restricted based on vehicle load to protect soft roads.

If driving on a forest road during spring thaw

Exceeding the speed limit by over 40 km/h is classified as gross speeding.

If speed exceeds the limit by over 40 km/h

Fines are progressive and based on the driver s income, especially at higher speeds.

If you caught exceed the legal speed limit

Serious violations like excessive speeding can lead to immediate suspension.

When speeding far above the limit

Temporary posted limits carry full legal authority at all times.

If a temporary roadwork sign shows a limit

Temporary speed limits in roadwork zones are legally binding and override permanent limits. Ignoring them endangers workers and road users, and repeated or serious violations may lead to fines, license suspension, or even vehicle seizure in severe cases.