Default speed limit in built-up areas unless signed otherwise
In most built-up areas, the default limit is 60 km/h unless a lower limit is gazetted or signed.
Default speed limit in gazetted towns or communities
Many NT communities set a default speed limit of 50 km/h, marked by signs on roads entering the area.
Default speed limit on rural roads and highways
Roads outside built-up areas usually have a default limit of 110 km/h unless otherwise posted.
Maximum speed limit on some highways
On parts of the Stuart, Barkly, Arnhem and Victoria Highways, 130 km/h is the signed limit.
Speed limit near schools during signed times
School zones enforce a 40 km/h limit during the times shown on signs on school days.
Speed limit in road work zones
Temporary signs in work zones must be followed and may require you to slow or stop.
Speed limit for learner licence holders
Learner drivers must not exceed 80 km/h unless with a licensed instructor.
Speed limit for provisional licence holders
Provisional drivers are limited to 100 km/h even if higher speeds are allowed.
Speed limit for heavy vehicle drivers
Drivers of vehicles over 12 tonnes GVM or buses over 5 tonnes must not exceed 100 km/h.
Meaning of speed limit signs
Speed signs show the top legal speed in ideal conditions; you must go slower if needed.
Risk of speeding by even 5 km/h
Driving 5 km/h over can greatly increase impact speed and crash risk.
Danger of exceeding 130 km/h
130 km/h is only legal on specific highways with clear signage.
Effect of speed on stopping distance
Higher speeds mean your car takes more time and space to stop safely.
Speeding in poor conditions
Driving too fast for conditions like rain, fog or gravel is still dangerous and penalised.
Driving under the speed limit unnecessarily
Going much slower than necessary can disrupt traffic flow and cause crashes.
Condition-based driving speed
You must adjust speed to suit road type, traffic, weather, and your own ability.
Definition of a built-up area
Includes areas with buildings less than 100m apart or consistent street lights.
Need to plan travel time
Giving yourself enough time reduces pressure to speed and break rules.
Danger of ‘acceptable’ speeding
Even small amounts over the limit increase crash and injury risk.
Impact difference between 60 km/h and 65 km/h
At 65 km/h, impact speed is 32 km/h vs. just 5 km/h at 60 km/h in a braking scenario.