How to Enable Google Maps Speed Limit on iPhone & Android

To enable Google Maps speed limit on your device, open the Google Maps app and tap your profile picture or initial, then go to Settings > Navigation, and turn on the speedometer display. Once enabled, you can see your current speed and the road’s speed limit while navigating, provided the feature is available in your location.

Inside this article

How to enable Google Maps speed limit on iPhone and iPad
How to enable Google Maps speed limit on Android
What to do if the speed limit is not showing
Frequently asked questions

How to enable Google Maps speed limit on iPhone and iPad

The feature was introduced in 2023.

Open the Google Maps app on your iPhone or iPad.
Tap your profile picture or initial in the top-right corner.
Tap Settings.
Tap Navigation.
Under Driving Options, turn on Show speedometer.

After you start navigation, if the Speed Limits feature is available in your location, you can also tap the Speed Limit label on the map to toggle the speed limit display on or off. This setting is found in your maps and navigation app settings and helps you stay aware of the posted limit while driving.

How to enable Google Maps speed limit on Android

Open the Google Maps app on your Android phone.
Tap Settings.
Tap Navigation.
Under Driving options, turn on Speedometer.

Once navigation begins, if the Speed Limits feature is available in your area, you can tap the Speed Limit icon on the screen to toggle the display on or off. The speedometer shows your current speed, while the speed limit appears alongside it when data is available.

What to do if the speed limit is not showing

Google Maps shows speed limits only where the Speed Limits feature is available in your location. If you do not see a speed limit while navigating, it likely means Google does not have speed limit data for that road or region. The speedometer is for informational use only and should not be relied upon as a primary speed-checking tool. Always obey posted traffic signs and local laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Google Maps show speed limits everywhere?

No. Speed limit data is not available in all locations. Google Maps only displays speed limits where the feature has been enabled for that area, and availability varies by region and road.

Does the speed limit feature work on all phones?

As long as your device runs a supported version of iOS or Android and has the latest Google Maps update, the feature should work when available in your location.

Can I see the speed limit without starting navigation?

No. The speed limit display appears only while you are actively navigating to a destination. It does not show on the map when you are simply browsing.

Is the speedometer accurate enough to avoid a ticket?

Google states that the speedometer is for informational use only. It may not reflect your exact speed due to GPS accuracy limitations, so you should always use your vehicle’s speedometer as the primary reference.

Do I need to pay for this feature?

No. Enabling the speedometer and speed limit display is free and included with the standard Google Maps app. No subscription or in-app purchase is required.

What are the benefits of enabling the speed limit display?

Enabling the feature can help improve fuel efficiency by maintaining a consistent speed. The speed limit display helps when traveling in unfamiliar areas or on roads with constantly changing speed limits. You can anticipate changes in speed and adjust driving accordingly, reducing abrupt braking. The feature helps plan routes more effectively by estimating travel times based on speed limits.