The DC speed limit determines how fast you can legally drive on the roads within the District of Columbia. Knowing these limits and understanding how they’re enforced is essential to avoid costly tickets, points on your license, or even criminal charges for reckless driving. Below is a detailed breakdown of DC’s current speed limits, common myths, and what to do if you’ve been cited for speeding.
General Speed Limits in Washington, DC
In most parts of DC, the maximum speed limit is 25 miles per hour unless otherwise posted. This applies to the majority of city streets. However, several exceptions exist:
- Alleys: 15 mph
- School zones: 15 mph when lights are flashing or during times when children are arriving or leaving school
- Residential streets: Typically 20–25 mph
- Interstate highways and freeways: Up to 55 mph
The District’s Department of Transportation (DDOT) can post lower limits in areas where pedestrian or cyclist activity is high. These limits are absolute, meaning even going one mile per hour over the posted limit is technically a violation.
Vision Zero and Recent Enforcement Changes
DC continues to expand its Vision Zero safety initiative, which aims to eliminate traffic fatalities. This effort has led to more speed cameras, stricter enforcement, and new lower limits in residential areas. As of 2025, many corridors in downtown and neighborhood zones have reduced limits from 25 mph to 20 mph to improve pedestrian safety.
If you’ve received a ticket from an automated camera, it carries the same penalty as one issued by an officer. Ignoring or delaying payment can lead to additional fines and possible registration holds.
Types of Speed Limits
While some states use “basic” or “presumed” speed laws, DC operates under absolute speed limit laws. That means:
- Driving even slightly above the posted limit is a violation.
- “Safe speed” arguments do not apply. Exceeding the limit by any amount is automatically illegal.
- The only acceptable defenses relate to errors in enforcement, mistaken identity, or emergencies.
Common Myths About DC Speed Limits
Myth 1: You’re safe if you’re under 10 mph over the limit.
False. DC’s absolute speed limit law makes any excess speed illegal. Some officers may use discretion, but legally, even 1 mph over can result in a citation.
Myth 2: No sign means no limit.
Even without a visible sign, DC’s default speed limits apply: 25 mph on most streets and 15 mph in alleys or school zones.
Myth 3: Speed limits are set lower than what’s safe to drive.
Speed limits are based on traffic studies that balance safety and flow, targeting the speed at which 85% of drivers operate safely.
Penalties for Speeding in DC
Penalties depend on how much you exceed the posted limit:
- Up to 10 mph over: $100 fine
- 11–15 mph over: $150 fine
- 16–20 mph over: $200 fine
- 21–25 mph over: $300 fine and potential license points
- 26 mph or more: $500 fine, license suspension, and possible reckless driving charge
Reckless driving is a criminal offense in DC, carrying up to 90 days in jail for a first conviction and a $500 fine. Repeat offenses bring harsher penalties.
What To Do If You’ve Been Ticketed
If you receive a speeding ticket in DC, act quickly. You generally have 30 days to respond, either by paying or contesting the citation. Ignoring it can double the fine or lead to vehicle registration holds. Contact a lawyer before taking action. In many cases, it’s possible to negotiate reduced penalties or avoid license points.
Contact a DC Traffic Lawyer Today
If you’ve been cited for speeding or charged with reckless driving in Washington, DC, you don’t have to face it alone. DC traffic lawyer, Nabeel Kibria, has extensive experience defending drivers against traffic offenses and protecting their records. Call (202) 689-4439 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a confidential consultation today.