Driving in the United States (2026): speed limits, cameras and road‑trip tips
Driving rules and enforcement in the US can change dramatically from one state (or even city) to the next. The safest approach is to treat speed limits as local, watch for school/work zones, and plan for toll roads that are increasingly cashless.
Where cameras are common
- Red‑light cameras: often used at busy intersections in some cities.
- Speed cameras: common in certain municipalities, school zones and work zones; some states restrict or ban them.
- Work‑zone enforcement: expect lower limits and stricter enforcement.
Speed limits: quick, realistic expectations
There is no single national set of limits. As a rough “feel” for many areas:
- Residential/city streets: often 25–35 mph.
- State highways: commonly 45–65 mph.
- Interstates: commonly 65–80 mph depending on the state.
These are only general patterns — posted signs, weather, and special zones always override.
Tolls and payment (cashless is normal now)
Many toll facilities use plate billing or transponders (e.g., E‑ZPass and regional variants). If you’re renting a car, check the rental company’s toll program to avoid surprise fees.
Practical road‑trip rules people miss
- School buses: stopping rules are strict and heavily enforced.
- Right turn on red: often allowed after a stop, unless a sign prohibits it.
- Hands‑free laws: many states restrict handheld phone use.
Recommended Speed Camera Map setup
- Set units to mph and enable voice alerts.
- Enable alerts for camera types used in your area (speed/red‑light/work‑zone where available).
- Download offline maps/routes for rural areas with weak coverage.
Note: This is a practical overview, not legal advice. US rules vary by state and city — always follow posted signs and current local regulations.