Driving through Northern Virginia? Better keep your foot light on the gas. This area is full of speed traps that even seasoned locals fall for. These aren’t just the usual highway patrols—you’re looking at well-camouflaged cameras, sudden speed drops, and unmarked zones where the fines hit hard. If you want to avoid surprise tickets, here’s a list of the top 5 hidden speed traps in Northern Virginia you should absolutely know.
Fairfax
Fairfax has a reputation for strict speed enforcement—especially around school zones and residential neighborhoods. One common trap is on Braddock Road near George Mason University. The speed limit dips suddenly, and police are often tucked away behind trees or parked on side streets. It’s a favorite spot for catching drivers who miss the new speed signs.
And here’s the tricky part—Waze or other apps won’t always catch them because the patrols move around frequently. If you’re heading westbound, be extra cautious once you pass the university.
Arlington
Arlington County blends city driving with highway speeds, which makes it a hotspot for speed enforcement. One of the sneakiest traps? The stretch of Washington Boulevard between Route 50 and Columbia Pike. The speed limit drops from 45 to 30 in what feels like a blink.
You’ll often find a cruiser parked behind the overpass or just beyond a bend. Drivers unfamiliar with the area tend to keep their speed—and that’s exactly when the blue lights hit. Locals know to coast through this area, especially during weekday evenings.
Vienna
You might think a small town like Vienna would be relaxed about traffic. Think again. The trap here is Maple Avenue (Route 123), especially between Lawyers Road and Park Street. It’s a busy commercial stretch where the speed limit is lower than expected—just 25 to 35 mph.
What makes this trap sneaky is the pedestrian-heavy area, giving officers extra incentive to enforce limits. Plus, radar-equipped SUVs often blend in with parked cars. If you’re cruising through Vienna, double-check your speed or risk a pricey mistake.
Alexandria
Old Town Alexandria is scenic and charming—but also a magnet for traffic tickets. The Wilkes Street Tunnel is notorious for catching speeders off guard. It’s a short stretch where the speed limit drops dramatically, and the city uses both patrols and camera enforcement.
At night, visibility in the tunnel is poor, making the posted speed limit signs easy to miss. Combine that with a natural downhill slope, and you’ve got the perfect trap. Local tip? Use cruise control if you’re not confident—you’ll thank yourself later.
Manassas
Manassas is home to one of the most hidden traps in Northern Virginia. On Sudley Road (Route 234 Business), especially near the Manassas Mall, the speed fluctuates unpredictably—from 45 to 35, then back up. Enforcement is heavy in that corridor, especially near intersections.
Unmarked cars are common here. One moment you’re in a flow of traffic, and the next you’re pulled over, wondering what went wrong. Even locals grumble about the inconsistency, which feels more like a ticket trap than actual safety enforcement.
Here’s a quick reference table of the top traps:
| Location | Trap Area | Speed Drop | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fairfax | Braddock Rd near GMU | 45 to 35 mph | Watch for hidden patrols |
| Arlington | Washington Blvd near Rt. 50 | 45 to 30 mph | Slow down before overpass |
| Vienna | Maple Ave (Rt. 123) | 35 to 25 mph | Look out for parked SUVs |
| Alexandria | Wilkes Street Tunnel | Sudden drop | Cruise control helps |
| Manassas | Sudley Rd near Manassas Mall | 45 to 35 mph | Beware of unmarked cars |
Getting caught in a speed trap is frustrating and expensive—not to mention the insurance hikes. But with a little local insight and a lot of attentiveness, you can cruise through Northern Virginia ticket-free. Know the signs, stay alert, and always expect the unexpected. These traps are designed to blend in, but now that you’re aware, they won’t catch you by surprise.
FAQs
Where is the worst speed trap in NoVA?
Fairfax’s Braddock Road near GMU is one of the worst.
Are speed cameras used in Alexandria?
Yes, especially in tunnels like Wilkes Street.
Does Waze detect speed traps?
Sometimes, but not always in moving patrol zones.
Why is Vienna so strict on speed?
High pedestrian traffic makes enforcement a priority.
Can you fight a speed trap ticket?
Yes, but success varies by jurisdiction.
