This traffic sign indicates that the national speed limit for that particular type of road and vehicle is in effect. In Great Britain, this generally means 70 mph on motorways and dual carriageways, 60 mph on single carriageways, and 30 mph in built-up areas unless otherwise indicated by other signs. Always remember to adjust your speed according to traffic, weather, visibility, and road conditions, as the posted limit is the maximum allowed and not a target speed.
Master the meaning and application of the 'National speed limit applies' sign (671) to ensure compliance and safe driving. This crucial road sign explanation is vital for your theory test revision and for recognising speed requirements on Great Britain roads.
Speed signs shape both legal compliance and safe driving technique. The number or symbol on the sign must be understood before the vehicle reaches the point where the rule begins, and the driver still has to adapt to weather, traffic, visibility, road surface, and stopping distance. A strong theory response is to slow progressively, keep good spacing, and avoid treating the posted value as a target. It is listed in the catalogue as code 671.
"National speed limit applies" controls or explains a speed requirement. It tells the driver when a speed limit, speed zone, minimum speed, reminder, or enforcement-related condition applies.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 671 - National speed limit applies road sign. Learn how the sign works, what rules it represents, and how it affects real driving situations. This FAQ strengthens your understanding and supports accurate decision making for the British driving theory exam in Great Britain.
The 671 sign, 'National speed limit applies', means that the general speed limit for the type of road you are on and the class of vehicle you are driving is in force. It typically signifies the end of a lower, variable speed limit, or that no specific limit has been set for that stretch of road other than the national default.
In Great Britain, for a car (category B), the national speed limits are: 70 mph on motorways and dual carriageways, 60 mph on single carriageways, and 30 mph in built-up areas. This sign indicates these limits are active. Always check for signs indicating lower limits, especially in built-up areas.
No, the sign indicates the maximum legal speed. You must always drive at a speed that is safe for the conditions, which includes traffic, weather, visibility, road surface, and the presence of pedestrians or cyclists. Never treat the posted limit as a target, especially if conditions require you to slow down.
A common trap is assuming the national speed limit is always safe. Learners sometimes forget that the sign simply states the maximum legal speed, not the safe speed for conditions. Another trap is not knowing the specific national speed limits for different road types in Great Britain. Always consider the context and reduce speed if necessary.
You will typically see sign 671 at the end of a restricted speed zone, such as a 30 mph area, or when leaving a stretch of road where a different speed limit was posted. It signals a return to the default national speed limits applicable to that road type and your vehicle class.
A clear reference image of the 671 - National speed limit applies road sign used in Great Britain.

The 671 - National speed limit applies road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The 671 - National speed limit applies road sign is part of the Great Britain Speed Limit Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Learning to distinguish between similar speed limit signs is crucial for effective theory test revision. Comparing signs like 'National speed limit applies' with other speed limit variations enhances sign recognition and reduces potential confusion during your exam preparation.

Understand the 20 mph Maximum Speed Limit Road Sign

Obey the Maximum Speed 30 mph Traffic Sign

Maximum Speed 40 mph Means Exactly That – Don't Exceed It!

Maximum Speed 50 mph (80 km/h) Traffic Sign Explained

Maximum Speed 60 MPH (97 km/h) Road Sign Explained

Understand the 30 mph Minimum Speed Limit Sign (Code 672)

You've reached the end of the 30 mph minimum speed limit.

Prepare for the 20 mph speed limit zone ahead with this essential traffic sign.
After reviewing the full list of road signs, challenge yourself with practice questions focused specifically on sign recognition. Reinforce your learning and ensure you're fully prepared to identify and understand all traffic signs on the DVSA theory test.
Browse All GB Road Signs List