4 States Where You Can Drive Like a Maniac—And 5 That’ll Make You Crawl
Ever feel like the rules of the road change the moment you cross a state line? You’re not imagining it. Some states practically invite you to unleash your inner speed demon, while others will have you tapping the brakes every mile. Knowing where you can cruise—and where you’ll crawl—can save you time, frustration, and maybe even a few tickets. Here’s a breakdown of four states where you can drive like a maniac and five that practically force you into slow motion.
1. Texas (Fast)
Everything’s bigger in Texas—including the speed limits. In some rural parts of the Lone Star State, you’ll find legal speed limits as high as 85 mph. Wide open highways and fewer speed traps make Texas a paradise for those who love to drive fast. Just be aware that big cities like Dallas and Houston still have their share of heavy traffic jams. But once you’re out in the country, it’s foot-to-the-floor freedom.
2. Montana (Fast)
Montana has long been famous for its laid-back approach to speed limits. While daytime speed limits exist now, rural highways often post limits of 80 mph, and enforcement tends to be relaxed outside of major towns. Drivers with a need for speed love the wide, scenic expanses that seem to stretch forever. However, wildlife crossings and unpredictable weather can still make things dangerous if you get too crazy. Keep your eyes open and enjoy the ride responsibly.
3. Nevada (Fast)
Nevada isn’t just about casinos—it’s also home to some of the fastest highways in America. With posted speed limits of 80 mph and long, empty stretches of desert road, Nevada practically begs you to open it up. Law enforcement tends to focus more on reckless driving than modest speeding. That said, areas near Las Vegas and Reno can be heavily policed, so don’t push your luck near the big cities. If you love fast driving, Nevada’s remote highways offer pure adrenaline.
4. Utah (Fast)
Utah quietly boasts some of the highest speed limits in the country, with many rural interstates marked at 80 mph. Long desert highways mean fewer cars, fewer stops, and wide-open spaces perfect for smooth, high-speed cruising. Law enforcement here tends to be reasonable, pulling over the truly reckless rather than casual speeders. Plus, the scenic beauty makes it one of the most enjoyable places to drive fast. Just keep it reasonable when approaching populated areas or national parks.
5. Hawaii (Slow)
If you’re planning to drive in Hawaii, prepare to slow way, way down. Most speed limits hover around 25–55 mph, even on major highways. Strict enforcement and the island vibe mean that nobody is in a rush, and you shouldn’t be either. Tourists trying to speed through paradise often find themselves ticketed or simply frustrated. Embrace the slower pace and soak up the incredible views—it’s not a race.
6. New York (Slow)
Outside of a few stretches of upstate highways, New York is not a state where you’ll be speeding happily. The combination of dense city traffic, aggressive drivers, and constant congestion makes fast driving nearly impossible. Even when the roads clear up, a heavy police presence discourages anyone from getting too bold. Speed cameras are everywhere in cities like New York City and Buffalo. If you value your license, it’s best to keep it calm and cautious here.
7. New Jersey (Slow)
New Jersey is famous for congested highways and aggressive, impatient drivers—but actual fast driving? Not so much. Between constant traffic, construction zones, and a heavy state trooper presence, speeding just isn’t practical. The New Jersey Turnpike might sound cool, but more often than not, you’ll be crawling rather than cruising. Those who try to zip through usually end up stuck between semis or pulled over. Slow and steady wins the race in the Garden State.
8. California (Slow)
You might dream of zooming down the Pacific Coast Highway, but California traffic has other plans. Endless congestion in major metro areas means that even if speed limits allow for 65–70 mph, you’ll often be lucky to hit 30. Heavy policing, particularly around Los Angeles, makes risky driving a ticket magnet. Outside city areas, mountain roads and sharp turns also naturally slow you down. California driving is about patience, not power.
9. Massachusetts (Slow)
Massachusetts drivers have a reputation for being fast and aggressive, but the roads don’t really support high speeds. Between narrow streets, random speed traps, and poorly marked signs, it’s a place where caution is necessary. Enforcement is strict, especially in suburban areas and smaller towns. Even if you feel like gunning it, there’s often a cop or a tight curve just around the bend. If you want to drive fast, you’ll have to head somewhere else.
Where the Road Lets You Decide
Whether you’re blazing across Texas or stuck in California gridlock, every state has its own driving personality. Knowing which states let you drive like a maniac—and which ones demand turtle speeds—can help you plan smarter road trips and avoid unnecessary stress. Fast states offer thrilling freedom, but slow ones remind us that sometimes the journey is the real prize. No matter where you are, driving with awareness and respect makes every trip better. Buckle up, drive smart, and enjoy every mile—fast or slow.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.