Speed limits in Luxembourg

What are the speed limits and different zones

Understanding the speed limits in Luxembourg is essential for safety, whether you're moving through the city, countryside, or highways. The country has strict regulations that vary depending on the type of road and vehicle you are in. For example, in places, where there are many pedestrians, the speed limitations will be more strict, such as in residential areas and around schools.

There are mainly three different zones in the country, where limits apply for all vehicles on the roads in the area. And special zones where drivers have to be extremely careful and attentive. They usually differ on the traffic density and the road quality. 

Urban

In urban areas, which include cities, towns, and residential neighbourhoods, speed limits are set lower to ensure the safety of pedestrians and cyclists. The speed limit in most urban areas is 50 km/h.

Rural

Rural roads are typically found outside city limits and run through the countryside, often connecting small towns and villages. These roads can have varying traffic and fewer pedestrians, which allows for a slightly higher speed limit. For cars, the speed limit on rural roads is 90 km/h, and for heavy vehicles and those with trailers, the speed limit is reduced to 75 km/h.

Highways

Motorways are the fastest roads in Luxembourg and connect the country to other parts of Europe. These roads are designed for high-speed travel but have regulated limits to maintain safety. On motorways, the maximum speed limit is 130 km/h under normal conditions, though it may be reduced to 110 km/h during rainy weather. For heavy vehicles & vehicles with trailers, the speed limit is 90 km/h.

Special zones

Those include areas around schools, hospitals, or construction sites where additional caution is required. These zones are typically marked with specific signage. The speed limit in special zones is generally 30 km/h, though it can be even lower in certain cases, such as in school zones.

Speed limit laws in Luxembourg

Knowing the limits is important but knowing the speeding fines in Luxembourg is also important. This way you will surely calm down a bit your speeding cravings as your wallet will suffer a big hit with every fine. The fines vary depending on how much you exceed the speed limit and the zone you’re in. Exceeding the limit by 5 km/h isn’t the same as exceeding it by 50 km/h.

In case you break the traffic rules, you will be fined. Usually, you have 45 days to pay the fine. If no payment or dispute is made on time, the financially liable person will be charged a double fine. Then, if no action is made, the fine for an offence resulting in points being deducted from the driving licence is replaced by a penalty notice. And so on, and it is just the case for ordinary speeding.

If you receive a speeding fine, there are several ways to pay it

At any police station

By bank transfer

If you decide to go to the police station, you can pay either in cash or by credit card there. For distant payments, you can use Guichet for ordinary fines.

Luxembourg point system for drivers

The country operates a points-based system for drivers to encourage safe driving habits and prosecute traffic violations. When a driver commits an infraction, points are deducted from their license based on the severity of the offense. If a driver loses too many points, their driving privileges may be suspended or revoked. The system is designed to improve road safety and make drivers more accountable for their actions.

Points deducted

Recovering points

Additional driving restrictions in Luxembourg

The country's road regulations include numerous additional restrictions that have been put in place to ensure the safety of everyone on the road. These rules are designed to prevent accidents, reduce risk, and maintain order on the roads. Failing to comply with these restrictions can result in fines and penalties.

Here are some of the most important driving restrictions in Luxembourg

Alcohol limit

In Luxembourg, the legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.5 g/L. For new drivers (with less than 2 years of experience), professional drivers, and bus or coach drivers, the limit is stricter at 0.2 g/L. Exceeding these limits can result in severe penalties, ranging from a 145 euro fine for low levels of intoxication to 10,000 euros and imprisonment for high levels of alcohol and repeat offenses.

Winter tires

From 1st November to 31st March, winter tires are mandatory in Luxembourg during conditions of ice, snow, or frost. This rule ensures safer driving in harsh weather conditions. Failing to equip your vehicle with winter tires when required can lead to a fine of 74 euros.

Lighting regulations

Drivers are required to use their headlights during low visibility conditions, such as rain, fog, or nighttime driving. Vehicles must also be equipped with functional daytime running lights. Failure to comply with lighting regulations can result in a fine of 49 euros.

Mandatory seat belts

All passengers and drivers in a vehicle are required to wear seat belts at all times. This applies both in the front and the back seats. Not wearing a seatbelt is subject to a 49 euro fine per person and a loss of 1 license point.

Parking regulations

Parking regulations are strictly enforced in Luxembourg. Parking in unauthorized zones, such as in front of driveways, on sidewalks, or in handicapped spots without a permit, can lead to fines ranging from 24 to 145 euros, depending on the violation.

Mobile phone use

Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you are using a hands-free system. Holding your phone or using it for texting while driving will result in a €250 fine and the loss of 4 points from your driving record.

Right of way

Failing to give way to other vehicles or pedestrians, particularly at roundabouts or pedestrian crossings, is a serious offense. Drivers who do not respect the right of way may face a 145 euro fine and 2 points on their license.

Noise restrictions

Luxembourg has noise regulations to prevent excessive noise from vehicles and this includes restrictions on honking unnecessarily. Improper use of the horn can result in a fine of 49 euros.

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What about France and Germany?

Speed limits vary across Luxembourg and its neighbouring countries, Germany and France. While the speed limit in urban areas is generally 50 km/h in all three countries, the limits on rural roads and motorways differ significantly.

Luxembourg speed limits compared to Germany and France

Various factors, such as road type, weather conditions, and the category of vehicle, play a role in determining the speed limit in each country. For example, France distinguishes between rural roads based on the number of lanes and the presence of a central divider, assigning different limits to each.

Weather conditions also influence speed limits in some countries. In France, speed limits are often reduced in rainy or foggy conditions, while in Luxembourg this distinction is only made on highways. Additionally, each vehicle category, whether it be passenger cars, trucks, or vehicles towing trailers, is subject to its own set of speed regulations.

To provide a clearer understanding of these differences, we have compiled a comparative table showing the speed limits in Luxembourg, France, and Germany.

Even if you’re an experienced driver, understanding local traffic regulations is crucial, as they vary significantly from country to country. Driving in Luxembourg requires familiarity with the country's specific speed limits and traffic rules. Ignoring these limits can lead to substantial fines and, in severe cases, even imprisonment for significant violations.