Van speed limits in the UK

In the UK, it could be assumed that driving rules for car and van drivers are the same but this is not the case. Most vans have lower national speed limits than cars as heavier vehicles take longer to stop and are less manoeuvrable. With speeding penalties, fines and even driving bans being a result of not sticking to the speed limit, we have outlined everything you need to know about driving your van on UK roads.

How van classifications affect speed limits

It’s important to know how your van is classified as this determines whether your van should follow van speed limits or car speed limits. If you are unsure what your van classification is, you can find this in your vehicle logbook or check the DVLA website.

Car derived vans and dual-purpose vehicles

These are the small vans built on car platforms and typically weigh under two tonnes. These vans follow the UK speed limits for cars.

The speed limits for car derived vans and dual-purpose vehicles are:

• Built‑up areas: 30 mph (20 mph in Wales)
• Single carriageways: 50 mph
• Dual carriageways: 60 mph
• Motorways: 70 mph (or 60 mph if towing)

Standard vans and light commercial vehicles (under 7.5 tonnes)

The majority of commercial vans in the UK sit in this category. These vehicles must follow van speed limits which are lower than car limits on faster roads.

The speed limits for standard vans and light commercial vehicles are:

• Built‑up areas: 30 mph (20 mph in Wales)
• Single carriageways: 50 mph
• Dual carriageways: 60 mph
• Motorways: 70 mph (or 60 mph if towing)

Your van’s weight classification can change depending on load so always know your Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM).

Heavier goods vehicles (Over 7.5 tonnes)

Larger vehicles fall into stricter categories, especially in Scotland, where limits are lower than in England and Wales. Again, these vehicles must follow van speed limits.

The speed limits for standard vans and light commercial vehicles are:

• Built‑up areas: 30 mph (20 mph in Wales)
• Single carriageways: 50 mph
• Dual carriageways: 60 mph
• Motorways: 60 mph

Regional differences across the UK

Speed limits aren’t completely uniform across the UK, so it’s worth knowing the key differences.

England

Standard UK van limits apply.

Scotland

Heavier goods vehicles (over 7.5 tonnes) have lower limits:

• 40 mph on single carriageways
• 50 mph on dual carriageways

Wales

Introduced the default 20 mph limit in built‑up areas for all vehicles.

Northern Ireland

Follows a similar approach to England and Scotland (no 20 mph default).

These variations matter if you travel across regions regularly.

Tips for driving your van in the UK

• Important things to remember when driving your van in the UK include:
• Knowing your van’s weight and classification
• Being aware of the road speed limits in the area you are driving
• Keep an eye out for roadside signs for change of speed limits and smart motorways
• Consider using technology to control your speed such as speed limiters, cruise control or a sat navigation. The latest vans from Mercedes-Benz include these features.
• Check manufacturer details for your vehicle’s MAM.

If you are considering a new van, get in touch with the dedicated team at Mercedes-Benz South West who are on hand to guide you through the buying process and advise on any questions you may have along the way.