Speed limits: table of limits and foreseen sanctions
Speed limits in Italy
In Italy, the Highway Code sets specific speed limits based on road types. In urban areas, the maximum speed limit is 50 km/h, while on non-urban roads, it can reach up to 90 km/h. On highways, the maximum permitted speed is 130 km/h.
It is important to note that these values represent the standard reference. In the presence of special road signs, construction work, or adverse weather conditions, limits may be further reduced to ensure safety. This regulation is designed to maintain a balance between traffic flow and accident prevention, making roads safer for all users.
Exceeding speed limits: point deductions and fines
Speeding is not taken lightly. The 2024 Highway Code introduces a gradual system of penalties, combining fines with license point deductions. More specifically, if the recorded speed is:
- Up to 10 km/h over the limit: fine ranging from €41 to €168, with no point deduction.
- Between 11 and 39 km/h over the limit: fine between €168 and €674, with a 3-point deduction.
- Between 41 and 59 km/h over the limit: fine ranging from €527 to €2,108, a 6-point deduction, and a license suspension from 1 to 3 months. If the driver has committed similar violations in the past two years, the suspension period can increase significantly, up to 18 months.
- More than 60 km/h over the limit: fine from €821 to €3,287, a 10-point deduction, and license suspension from 6 to 12 months. In case of repeat offenses, especially if exceeding the limit by more than 60 km/h, the driver may face license revocation.
Additionally, if the violation occurs at night (between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM), the fine amount increases by approximately one-third, considering the greater driving difficulties in low-visibility conditions, which should require extra caution.
Additional sanctions and “discounts” on speeding fines
Beyond fines and point deductions, the Highway Code also includes additional penalties. For example, if a driver commits multiple violations within the same year, each resulting in a 5-point deduction, they risk license revocation. While a suspension imposes a temporary driving ban, revocation means the driver loses their license entirely and must retake the driving exams after a minimum waiting period of two years.
An interesting legal aspect concerns fines issued without the use of automatic detection devices (such as speed cameras or highway monitoring systems). According to a ruling by the Court of Cassation (Ordinance 9555/2018), if the official report does not clearly identify the driver such as when a vehicle is used by multiple people points cannot be deducted, although the fine must still be paid.
Finally, the system offers economic incentives for early payment of fines. If the fine is paid within 60 days, a reduced rate applies. If payment is made within the first 5 days, the discount can reach up to 30%. Failure to meet these deadlines results in increased penalties, interest charges, and collection fees.
