International Driving Speed Converter
Convert speeds between mph and km/h, understand speed limits in different countries, and convert fuel efficiency between mpg, L/100km, and km/L for driving abroad.
As an Amazon Associate and CJ Affiliate publisher we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability may vary.
International Driving Guide
What should I know about Speed Limits by Country?
UK: 30mph (48km/h) urban, 60mph (97km/h) single carriageway, 70mph (113km/h) motorway. France: 50km/h urban, 80km/h rural (reduced in rain), 110km/h dual carriageway, 130km/h motorway. Germany: 50km/h urban, 100km/h rural, recommended 130km/h on Autobahn (no general limit on unrestricted sections). USA: varies by state — typically 25–35mph urban, 55–65mph highway, 65–80mph interstate. Australia: 50km/h urban (40 near schools), 100–110km/h open road. Speed cameras are common across Europe — always check current local speed limits and camera locations rather than assuming your home country's rules apply, since fines and enforcement approaches vary significantly abroad.
What's the difference between Miles and Kilometres?
1 mile = 1.60934 km. 1 km = 0.62137 miles. Quick mental conversion: km × 0.6 ≈ miles (close enough for speed signs). Miles × 1.6 ≈ km. For speed signs: if you see 80 km/h, that is approximately 50mph. 100 km/h ≈ 62mph. 120 km/h ≈ 75mph. 130 km/h ≈ 81mph (typical European motorway limit). The UK is unusual in Europe for using miles — all other EU countries use kilometres.
What should I know about Fuel Efficiency Units?
UK uses miles per gallon (mpg, using Imperial gallons). Europe uses litres per 100km (L/100km) — a lower number means better fuel efficiency (inverse relationship). USA uses miles per gallon but with US gallons (smaller than Imperial). Conversion: UK mpg to L/100km = 282.5 ÷ UK mpg. US mpg to L/100km = 235.2 ÷ US mpg. Example: 40 UK mpg = 282.5 ÷ 40 = 7.1 L/100km. When hiring a car in Europe, fuel efficiency is stated in L/100km on the documentation.
What's the key thing to understand about International Driving Requirements?
Driving in Europe from the UK since Brexit: you need a valid UK driving licence (photo card — paper licence not accepted everywhere), passport or ID, vehicle registration document (V5C), insurance with foreign use cover (motor insurance certificate showing European cover), and a GB sticker or UK plate (now mandatory). UK MOT is generally accepted throughout Europe. Some countries require additional equipment in the car: France requires a breathalyser kit, and parts of Europe require a warning triangle, high-vis jacket, and flares that aren't legally required in the UK, so check the specific equipment list for your destination country before driving there.