Car speed limits in Georgia (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Unless otherwise posted, the general limits are 30 mph in urban or residential districts and 55 mph in all other areas. They are 65 mph on multi-lane divided highways and urban interstates, and 70 mph on rural interstates. Exceeding a regulatory work-zone limit can mean a fine of $100 to $2,000, up to 12 months' imprisonment, or both.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Built-up areasPassenger car on public roads | 30 mph [1] |
| Outside built-up areas (single carriageway)Passenger car on public roads | 55 mph [1] |
| Outside built-up areas (dual carriageway or expressway)Passenger car on public roads | 65 mph [1] |
| MotorwaysPassenger car on public roads | 70 mph on rural interstates; 65 mph on urban interstates [1] |
| Residential streetsPassenger car on public roads | 30 mph in any urban or residential district, unless otherwise posted. [1] |
| Roadworks zonesPassenger car on public roads | The limit in most work zones is reduced. Exceeding a regulatory work-zone limit is a misdemeanour of a high and aggravated nature: a fine of $100 to $2,000, up to 12 months' imprisonment, or both. [1] |
Notes
- Unpaved county roads: 35 mph. The manual says these are general rules and that local authorities, the Department of Transportation or the Department of Public Safety may adjust limits.
Sources
- Georgia Department of Driver Services: Section 5 Continued: Keep Right Except to Pass (Drivers Manual, Speed Limits) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Georgia and neighbouring states
| State | Built-up areas | Outside built-up areas (single carriageway) | Outside built-up areas (dual carriageway or expressway) | Motorways |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | 30 mph | 55 mph (all other areas) | 65 mph (multi-lane divided) | 70 mph rural, 65 mph urban |
| Alabama | 30 mph (urban districts) | 55 mph | 65 mph (4+ lanes) | 70 mph |
| Florida | 30 mph | 55 mph | 65 mph (4 lanes, outside urban area) | 70 mph |
| North Carolina | 35 mph | 55 mph | 55 mph | 55 mph (up to 70 if posted) |
| South Carolina | 30 mph | 55 mph | 60 mph where posted | 70 mph where posted |
| Tennessee | ⚠ Not yet verified | 55 mph (unless posted) | ⚠ Not yet verified | 70 mph (as low as 55 mph in cities) |
More rules in Georgia
- Cannabis
- Minimum age for a car driving licenceMinimum age for a car licence: 16 (Class D provisional licence) · Earliest age to drive a car supervised: 15 (Class CP learner's permit)
- E-bikes and speed pedelecsLegal class: Three classes · Minimum age: 15
- FireworksConsumers may buy and use category F2 fireworks: Yes (licensed sellers, 18+) · Minimum age to buy: 18
- Knives and pepper sprayFolding pocket knives: Blade of 12 in or less: not a 'knife' · Locking or one-handed knives: No separate rule
- Statutory minimum wageNational statutory minimum wage: Yes · Current adult minimum wage (gross): $5.15 per hour (state; federal $7.25)
- Using a mobile phone while drivingHolding a phone while driving banned: Banned · Hands-free use: Hands-free allowed
- Seat belts and child seatsSeat belt compulsory in front seats: Yes · Seat belt compulsory in rear seats: Minors 8 and older only
- Tobacco and nicotine age limitsMinimum age to buy tobacco: 21 · Minimum age to buy e-cigarettes: 21
- Drink-driving limitsBlood alcohol limit for ordinary drivers: 0.08% · Lower limit for novice or young drivers: 0.02% under 21
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.