Chapter 7 · Rules
The Basic Speed Rule
Posted limits, conditions, school zones, night driving, and road rage.
Never faster than is safe
The basic speed rule: drive at a careful, prudent speed given traffic, surface, width, weather, and visibility. You must always be able to stop within the assured clear distance ahead. A posted limit is the maximum in ideal conditions — not a target in rain, ice, fog, or a packed work zone.
Typical Oklahoma limits
Always obey the posted sign. Common Oklahoma maximums: 25 mph in a properly marked school zone (during the hours or when lights flash); 25 mph on many urban/residential streets unless posted otherwise; 55 mph on unposted county roads; 65–70 mph on many rural highways; 70–75 mph on rural interstate segments; up to 80 mph on some approved turnpike stretches. School buses: 55 mph on paved two-lane roads, 65 mph on the state, interstate, and turnpike systems.
- School zone
- 25 mph when in effect
- County roads (unposted)
- 55 mph
- Rural interstate
- Often 75 mph if posted
Night driving and road rage
At night you see less and judge speed poorly. Slow down. Use high beams on open roads with no other vehicles, and dim them within 1,000 feet of oncoming traffic or 600 feet when following. Glare from a dirty windshield makes night worse — keep glass clean.
Road rage is aggressive, angry driving. Do not respond. Give space, avoid eye contact, and do not use the horn as a weapon. If you feel threatened, drive to a public place and call 911.