Summary of speed and distance

Questions about speed and distance appear on almost every theory test. Here’s everything you need in one place.

Speed limits in Norway

The speed limit is always maximum speed in good conditions. In bad weather, slippery roads or poor visibility, you should drive more slowly. Read more about risk understanding in traffic .

Stop-Distance Formulas

Stopping distance at different speeds

Details can be found under Stopping Distance Calculation .

Factors That Increase Stopping Distance

• Wet road – the braking distance doubles
• Ice and snow – the braking distance can be up to ten times longer
• Worn tires – greatly reduces traction
• Fatigue or distraction – increases reaction time beyond normal one second
• Downhill – gravity extends the braking distance

The Three-Second Rule

Use the three-second rule to keep a safe distance from the car in front:

1. Choose a fixed point along the road
2. When the car in front passes the point, count “one-thousand-and-one, one-thousand-and-two, one-thousand-three”
3. If you pass the point before you are finished, you are too close

In bad conditions, increase to four or five seconds.

Custom speed

You must always adapt your speed to the conditions, even if the speed limit is higher:

• Reduced visibility (fog, rain, darkness)
• Heavy traffic or vulnerable road users
• Road works and temporary signs
• Defensive driving is about always having margins

Further reading

• Stopping distance calculation
• Three-Second Rule
• Summary of yield rules
• Practice with practical examples