Advisory speedIreland
Traffic rules
Ireland
1. Advisory speed
An advisory speed is a recommended speed for a particular road section or hazard rather than a legally imposed maximum speed. It may be shown near bends, junctions, steep gradients, roadworks or other locations where a lower speed can help drivers negotiate the road safely.
Drivers should treat an advisory speed as guidance for safe driving conditions and should travel even more slowly when weather, visibility, traffic or road conditions require it. A separate legally binding speed limit must still be obeyed.
Is Ireland’s ordinary motorway maximum an advisory speed?
No. The ordinary car motorway figure of 120 km/h is a legal maximum, subject to lower posted and vehicle restrictions. The Road Safety Authority’s advice to choose a safe speed operates alongside that limit; it does not make the maximum optional.
🔗 rsa.ie • RSA Rules of the Road — guidance, law date 1 March 2025; read with later amendments
Can a speed recommendation override a lower restriction in Ireland?
No. A recommendation must be read within the applicable legal maximum. Lower signed, vehicle-specific or temporary restrictions still govern. Use the rule for the actual road and vehicle rather than treating a recommended number as permission to exceed it.
🔗 rsa.ie • RSA Rules of the Road — guidance, law date 1 March 2025; read with later amendments
May I drive below a recommended speed when conditions worsen in Ireland?
Yes. A recommendation is not a guarantee that the speed is safe for your vehicle or the conditions. Slow for limited visibility, poor grip, traffic or another hazard, and keep enough space to stop safely. Apply any specific legal minimum together with its traffic and safety exceptions.
🔗 rsa.ie • RSA Rules of the Road — guidance, law date 1 March 2025; read with later amendments
