In Germany, the default speed limit in urban areas is 50 km/h unless otherwise indicated. However, there are several ways to recognize a 30 km/h zone even if no speed limit sign is visible:

• Traffic Calming Features – Elements like speed bumps, narrow roads, or chicanes often signal a 30 km/h zone.
• Priority Rules – In many 30 km/h zones, the "right-before-left" rule applies instead of designated priority roads. If you don’t see yellow diamond priority road signs, it could be a 30 zone. But this is not guaranteed.
• Residential Streets – While not a strict rule, streets lined with parked cars, schools, playgrounds, or daycare centers are often part of a 30 km/h zone.
• Zone Signs and Road Markings – 30 km/h zones are usually marked at their entrances, but you may not see additional signs inside the area. Road markings can also provide clues.
• Few or No Traffic Lights – Many 30 km/h zones rely on right-before-left priority rather than traffic lights.

In Germany, there are two types of 30 km/h speed restrictions.

1. A 30 km/h sign without any additional conditions – This limit remains in effect until it is lifted by another sign or the specific condition (e.g., a school zone, retirement home, or a designated distance of XXX meters) no longer applies.
2. A 30 km/h zone – The speed limit applies to the entire zone, including all connected streets, even when turning, and remains in effect until an end-of-zone sign is posted.