Is there a minimum speed limit on national highways?
2 Answers
National highways have a minimum speed limit of 40 kilometers per hour. Highway classification: China classifies highways into five levels: expressways, first-class highways, second-class highways, third-class highways, and fourth-class highways. The disparity in road conditions between the eastern and western regions is largely determined by China's topography, which is higher in the west and lower in the east, with more plains in the east and more mountains in the west, in addition to the influence of economic development. Driving speed: Expressways should indicate the driving speed of the lanes, with the maximum speed not exceeding 120 kilometers per hour and the minimum speed not less than 60 kilometers per hour. On expressways, the maximum speed of small passenger vehicles should not exceed 120 kilometers per hour, other motor vehicles should not exceed 100 kilometers per hour, and motorcycles should not exceed 80 kilometers per hour.
In China, national highways do have minimum speed limits. Having driven for over a decade with frequent national highway experience, I recall expressway sections typically enforce a 60 km/h minimum, such as near urban connectors or ramp entries. While regular sections don't strictly mandate minimum speeds, traffic laws prohibit excessively slow driving to prevent congestion or accidents. Once during roadworks, my crawling pace nearly caused a rear-end collision - since then I've maintained at least 45 km/h. Driving too slowly not only increases fuel consumption but also accelerates engine carbon buildup, leading to costly repairs long-term. Regardless of signage, I recommend keeping above 40 km/h on national highways - it's safer and more efficient.
