What is the speed limit when towing a trailer? Current speed limits in Europe (2026)
What is the speed limit when towing a trailer? Check the current speed limits for the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, Spain and other European countries. Includes fines, and information on braked and unbraked trailers.
Avoid a fine
What is the speed limit when towing a trailer?
The question “what is the speed limit when towing a trailer?” is searched for thousands of times every year. Yet it appears that many drivers do not know exactly what the rules are. This is because the speed limit depends on the country you are driving in, the weight of the trailer and, in some cases, even whether the trailer is braked or unbraked.
Are you taking a trailer on holiday or using it for business purposes? If so, it is important to be aware of the applicable speed limits. Breaking the law can not only result in a fine, but also lead to dangerous situations on the road.
In this article, you can read all about the maximum speed limit for trailers in the Netherlands and the most popular European holiday destinations.
Read the full article or select a country below for more information.
Dutch regulations
Maximum speed limit for trailers in the Netherlands
For many drivers, the Netherlands is the starting point. Here, there are clear rules regarding trailer speeds.
The 90 km/h speed limit on the motorway applies regardless of whether the standard limit on that stretch of road is 100, 120 or 130 km/h.
Dutch regulations
Braked versus unbraked trailer
As far as the legal speed limit in the Netherlands is concerned, it makes no difference whether a trailer is braked or unbraked. However, different rules apply to the maximum weight that may be towed.
A braked trailer offers greater stability and a shorter braking distance, making it generally safer at higher speeds.
Belgian regulations
What is the speed limit for towing a trailer in Belgium?
The rules in Belgium are different from those in the Netherlands.
So, for light trailers, you’re allowed to drive considerably faster than in the Netherlands.
German regulations
What is the speed limit for towing a trailer in Germany?
Germany is one of the countries through which many Dutch people travel with a trailer or caravan.
A German Tempo 100 exemption allows you to drive at 100 km/h on the motorway with an approved trailer. Without this approval, the speed limit is always 80 km/h.
Luxembourg regulations
Maximum speed limit for trailers in Luxembourg
Luxembourg is often passed through on the way to southern Europe.
French regulations
Maximum speed limit for trailers in France
France has relatively high speed limits for light vehicle combinations.
For vehicle combinations weighing over 3,500 kg, the speed limit is 90 km/h.
Spanish regulations
Maximum speed limit for trailers in Spain
Spain has stricter rules for vehicles towing trailers than many other European countries.
Austrian regulations
Maximum speed limit for trailers in Austria
For vehicle combinations weighing over 3,500 kg, the speed limit is 80 km/h on motorways and 70 km/h on dual carriageways.
Swiss regulations
Maximum speed limit for trailers in Switzerland
Heavy vehicles weighing over 3,500 kg are limited to 80 km/h on motorways and dual carriageways. Switzerland is known for its strict enforcement, so please take particular care to observe the speed limits.
Italian regulations
Maximum speed limit for trailers in Italy
Italy is one of the countries with the lowest speed limits for trailers.
Danish regulations
Maximum speed limit for trailers in Denmark
With a special Tempo 100 approval, a speed limit of 100 km/h may be permitted in some cases.
Portuguese regulations
Maximum speed limit for trailers in Portugal
Portugal is therefore one of the countries where relatively high speeds are permitted when towing a trailer.
Croatian regulations
Maximum speed limit for trailers in Croatia
be prepared
How much is the fine for speeding while towing a trailer?
The amount of a fine varies from country to country and is regularly updated. In the Netherlands, speeding fines start at €27 for exceeding the speed limit by 4 km/h. Germany is the cheapest in this respect, and Scandinavia the most expensive.
In addition, fines imposed abroad can be collected throughout the European Union via European cooperation mechanisms.
In addition to the financial consequences, speeding whilst towing a trailer can lead to:
- Loss of control over the vehicle;
- Trailer swaying;
- Longer braking distance;
- Higher risk of damage to the cargo;
- Potential liability issues in the event of an accident.
You should therefore always check the local traffic regulations in advance.
tips
Tips for driving safely with a trailer
Check your tyre pressure
Incorrect tyre pressure increases the risk of the vehicle swerving and tyres blowing out.
Distribute the load evenly
Place heavy objects low down and as close to the centre of gravity as possible.
Keep extra distance
When towing a trailer, you need a longer braking distance.
Adjust your speed
Even if the speed limit allows you to drive faster, driving more slowly may be safer in windy or rainy conditions or in heavy traffic.
summary
Quick guide: what is the speed limit for towing a trailer in Europe?
The table below provides a quick overview of the maximum speeds for passenger cars towing a trailer in popular European countries. Please note: exceptions may apply depending on the weight of the combination, Tempo 100 approval or local traffic regulations.
Please refer to the information above for more specific regulations.
* For light trailers up to 750 kg.
** For light vehicle combinations; lower limits apply to combinations weighing over 3,500 kg.
Always check the current traffic regulations before setting off. Traffic laws are subject to change, and exceptions may apply depending on the vehicle category, gross weight or type of trailer.
Don’t drive too fast
Conclusion
If you’re wondering what the speed limit is when towing a trailer, you won’t get the same answer everywhere. In the Netherlands, the limit is usually 90 km/h on the motorway, whereas in Belgium you can sometimes drive at 120 km/h, and in Germany you’re often limited to 80 km/h unless you’ve passed the Tempo 100 inspection.
You should therefore always check the current rules in the country you are driving in before setting off. This will help you avoid fines, dangerous situations and unwanted surprises on the road.
quick information
Frequently Asked Questions
Hoe hard mag je met een aanhanger op de snelweg in Nederland?
If you are towing a trailer weighing up to 3,500 kg, you may drive at a maximum speed of 90 km/h on the motorway.
Does it matter whether a trailer is braked or unbraked?
Not for the speed limit in the Netherlands, but for the permitted towing weight.
Is it allowed to drive at 100 km/h with a trailer in Germany?
Yes, but only if the vehicle combination has a valid Tempo 100 approval.
What is the maximum speed limit for trailers in Belgium?
If you’re towing a light trailer weighing up to 750 kg, you’re allowed to drive at 120 km/h on many motorways.
Which country has the lowest speed limit for trailers?
Italy is one of the strictest countries, with a speed limit of 80 km/h on motorways.
Are foreign speeding fines forwarded?
Yes, within Europe, most traffic fines are now collected across borders.
Disclaimer
No rights may be derived from this information. Wagenbouw Hapert B.V. accepts no liability for any inaccuracies or claims (for damages).
Last updated: 9 June 2026
Sources:
- ANWB Reiswijzers Europa
- Rijksoverheid Nederland
- National transport authorities of the countries concerned
- European traffic information and overviews of legislation