The posted speed limit is the maximum speed permitted

1. under ideal conditions ✓
2. for daylight driving
3. except when passing
4. under poor visibility conditions

Answer: A. under ideal conditions

The posted speed limit is the top speed allowed when conditions are ideal.

Why this is the answer

The handbook says the number on the sign is a maximum for ideal conditions only, not a speed you should always try to reach. When roads are slippery or you cannot see well, it says to go slower than the posted limit. That makes the sign a ceiling for good conditions, while your actual safe speed depends on what is happening around you. The other choices add limits or exceptions that the handbook does not give.

Why the other answers are wrong

• B. for daylight driving — The handbook does not tie the posted maximum to daylight; it describes it as the maximum for ideal conditions and says to slow down when conditions are not ideal.
• C. except when passing — There is no passing exception in the handbook; it says the posted number is the maximum for ideal conditions, and speeding is risky.
• D. under poor visibility conditions — Poor visibility is named as a reason to choose a slower speed, so the posted limit is not the maximum allowed in those conditions.

Remember it

When the weather turns bad, keep the sign in mind but let your speed drop.