Short answer: in most states you may tow a trailer at the posted speed limit, but a few states set a lower maximum for vehicles towing. California caps every vehicle towing a trailer at 55 mph, and Washington caps “vehicles in combination” (which includes any vehicle towing a trailer) at 60 mph. Posted limits and your trailer tire speed rating still apply, so slower is often the legal and safe choice.
States With a Lower Towing Speed Limit (Verified)
| State | Max speed when towing | Official source |
|---|---|---|
| California | 55 mph (any vehicle towing a trailer) | Cal. Vehicle Code §22406 |
| Washington | 60 mph (vehicles over 10,000 lbs and all vehicles in combination; posted as “Trucks”) | RCW 46.61.410 |
Other states may set truck or heavy-vehicle limits that apply by weight or axle count. Always check posted signs and your state’s vehicle code. For mirrors, brakes and other rules, see towing laws by state and trailer brake requirements by state.
Watch Your Trailer Tire Speed Rating
Your trailer’s tires may limit you more than the law does. Many ST (Special Trailer) tires have historically carried a 65 mph speed rating, while some newer ones are rated higher. The rating is on the sidewall, so check it before you plan highway speeds and never tow faster than the lowest-rated tire on the trailer. Underinflated or overloaded tires heat up faster at speed, so check pressure cold before every trip.
Lane Rules Often Come With Speed Rules
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States that set a lower towing speed often restrict towing vehicles to certain lanes too. In California, for example, a vehicle towing a trailer must drive in the right-hand lane or a lane marked for slower vehicles on most highways (Cal. Vehicle Code §21655). Watch for “Trucks and Trailers Keep Right” signs wherever you tow.
Why Slower Is Safer When Towing
A heavier combination takes longer to stop and is more prone to sway at speed. Leave extra following distance, slow down before curves and downgrades, and ease off in crosswinds or when big trucks pass. If the trailer starts to sway, take your foot off the gas, hold the wheel straight, and apply the trailer brakes gently with the controller rather than braking hard with the tow vehicle.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I tow at 70 mph?
Only where the posted limit allows it and no lower towing limit applies. In California the maximum is 55 mph and in Washington it’s 60 mph for any vehicle towing a trailer. Your tire speed rating may also be lower than 70.
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Does the towing speed limit apply to small utility trailers?
Yes in California and Washington. Both laws apply to vehicles towing a trailer, not just heavy trucks, so a small utility or U-Haul trailer counts.
Where can I check my own state’s rule?
Your state’s vehicle code and DMV driver handbook are the official sources. Posted signs always apply too.
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