Your Complete Guide to Driving in Morocco
Driving in Morocco is an adventure that opens up the country in ways public transport simply can't. While the driving culture differs from what you might be used to at home, millions of tourists drive safely here every year. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Basic Traffic Rules
Drive on the Right
Morocco follows right-hand traffic, like continental Europe and the Americas. If you're from the UK, Japan, or Australia, take extra care at intersections and when entering roundabouts.
Speed Limits
| Road Type | Speed Limit |
|---|---|
| Urban areas | 40-60 km/h |
| Rural roads | 80-100 km/h |
| Expressways | 100 km/h |
| Autoroutes (highways) | 120 km/h |
Important: Speed limits are strictly enforced. Radar traps are common, especially on highways and at city entrances. Fines start at 300 MAD and increase substantially for significant violations.
Mandatory Requirements
- Seat belts - Required for all occupants
- Child seats - Required for children under 10
- Warning triangle - Must be in the car
- Reflective vest - Should be accessible (not in trunk)
- Valid license and ID - Keep on you at all times
- Rental documents - Keep in the car
Prohibited
- Using mobile phones while driving (hands-free allowed)
- Driving under the influence (0.02% limit - effectively zero tolerance)
- Driving without insurance
- Excessive speeding
- Running red lights (heavy fines)
Understanding Moroccan Driving Culture
What to Expect
Moroccan driving style is more assertive than in Western Europe or North America. Here's how to interpret common behaviors:
Horn Usage
- Not aggression - it's communication
- "I'm here" when passing or at blind corners
- "Thanks" - a quick tap
- "Move please" - brief honk
- Get comfortable using your horn appropriately
Lane Discipline
- More fluid than strict lane adherence
- Cars may straddle lanes
- Overtaking can happen on either side
- Don't be surprised by motorcycles filtering through
Right of Way
- Often negotiated in the moment
- Eye contact helps communicate intent
- Larger vehicles often take priority
- Be prepared to yield even when you have "right of way"
Roundabouts
- Priority is typically to traffic already in the roundabout
- Be assertive when entering
- Signal when exiting
- Expect some chaos at busy times
Adapting Your Driving
Day 1: Take it slow, stick to quieter roads, and observe Day 2-3: You'll start understanding the rhythm Day 4+: You'll feel much more comfortable
Tips for adaptation:
- Drive defensively
- Anticipate unexpected moves
- Don't take anything personally
- Use mirrors constantly
- Signal your intentions clearly
Navigating Morocco
GPS and Maps
Google Maps
- Works well for main routes
- Good for cities and major destinations
- Live traffic in main areas
- Download offline maps before your trip
Maps.me
- Excellent offline functionality
- Good for rural areas
- Free to download
- Updated by users
Waze
- Good for traffic updates
- Speed camera warnings
- Best in urban areas
- Requires data connection
Pro Tips:
- Download offline maps for entire route before departure
- Screenshot important directions
- Carry a paper backup for remote areas
- Keep phone charged (bring car charger)
Road Signs
Signs are typically in Arabic and French. Key terms to recognize:
| French | English |
|---|---|
| Centre ville | City center |
| Toutes directions | All directions |
| Sortie | Exit |
| Entrée | Entrance |
| Péage | Toll |
| Déviation | Detour |
| Travaux | Road works |
| Danger | Danger |
| Ralentir | Slow down |
| Stationnement | Parking |
| Interdit | Prohibited |
City Navigation
Old Medinas:
- No cars allowed inside
- Park outside walls
- Follow "P" parking signs
Modern City Centers:
- Can be hectic
- One-way systems common
- Watch for pedestrians
- Underground parking available
Fuel Stations
Finding Fuel
Fuel stations are plentiful on major routes and in cities:
- Look for "Station Service" or "Essence"
- Major brands: Afriquia, Shell, Total, Winxo
- Many open 24/7 in cities
- Rural areas may have limited hours
Fuel Types
| Type | French Name | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Unleaded petrol | Sans plomb | 14 MAD/liter |
| Diesel (Gasoil) | Gasoil | 12 MAD/liter |
Important: Most rental cars use diesel. Verify your fuel type before filling up. Putting petrol in a diesel car is a serious (and expensive) mistake.
Payment
- Cash (Dirhams) always accepted
- Cards increasingly accepted at major stations
- Rural stations may be cash-only
- Keep some cash reserves
Pro Tips
- Fill up whenever below half tank in rural areas
- Note fuel stations on your route
- Keep receipts (rental company may ask)
- Check for premium fuel if required
Parking in Morocco
Types of Parking
Guarded Parking Lots
- Look for "Parking Gardé"
- Pay when leaving (typically 5-30 MAD)
- Safest option overnight
- Give tip to gardien (5-10 MAD)
Street Parking with Gardien
- Unofficial but accepted system
- Person in reflective vest watches cars
- Pay 5-10 MAD when leaving
- Standard practice in most cities
Hotel Parking
- Many hotels have parking
- Ask when booking
- May be guarded or enclosed
Underground Parking
- Available in modern city centers
- Usually 10-20 MAD/hour
- Safe and convenient
Parking Tips
- Never leave valuables visible
- Roll up windows completely
- Use designated parking areas
- Accept gardien help (they'll guide you in/out)
- Keep change handy for parking fees
Toll Roads (Autoroutes)
Highway Network
Morocco has excellent toll highways connecting major cities:
- Tangier to Agadir (via Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech)
- Fes to Oujda
- New sections regularly added
Toll Costs (Approximate)
| Route | Cost (MAD) |
|---|---|
| Casablanca - Marrakech | 60 |
| Casablanca - Rabat | 30 |
| Rabat - Tangier | 140 |
| Marrakech - Agadir | 90 |
| Fes - Meknes | 25 |
Payment Methods
- Cash: Most common, keep Dirhams handy
- Card: Accepted at most booths
- Jawaz: Electronic toll pass (usually for locals/long-term residents)
Highway Tips
- Take a ticket at entry
- Keep ticket safe
- Pay at exit based on distance
- Don't lose your ticket (maximum fare charged)
- Rest stops every 30-50 km
Police and Checkpoints
What to Expect
- Fixed checkpoints common on highways and city entrances
- Random stops possible
- Usually routine document checks
What to Do
- Slow down when approaching checkpoint
- Stop if waved over
- Stay calm and polite
- Have ready: License, passport, rental agreement
- Answer questions briefly and respectfully
- Don't offer bribes - it's illegal and unnecessary
If Stopped for Violation
- Remain calm and respectful
- Ask to see speed/evidence if disputed
- Request a formal ticket
- Pay fines through official channels
- Keep receipt
Emergency Situations
Emergency Numbers
- Police: 19
- Fire/Ambulance: 15
- Highway assistance: 177
- Your rental company: Keep number accessible
In Case of Accident
- Stop and assess - Check for injuries
- Call emergency services if needed (15 or 19)
- Don't move vehicles until police arrive (required)
- Exchange information with other party
- Document everything - Photos, witness contacts
- Get police report - Essential for insurance
- Contact rental company immediately
Breakdown
- Pull over safely - Use hazard lights
- Place warning triangle - 50m behind car
- Call rental company assistance line
- Stay with vehicle if in safe location
- Don't attempt major repairs yourself
Weather and Seasonal Considerations
Summer (June-September)
- Very hot inland (40°C+)
- AC essential
- Carry extra water
- Check tire pressure (heat affects it)
- Drive early morning or evening when possible
Winter (December-February)
- Mountain roads may have snow/ice
- Chains required on some passes
- Fog common in mornings
- Earlier darkness
- Check road conditions before mountain drives
Rainy Season
- Flash floods possible in valleys
- Reduced visibility
- Slower driving necessary
- Desert tracks may become impassable
Special Situations
Night Driving
Avoid when possible because:
- Unlit vehicles (bicycles, carts)
- Animals on roads
- Pedestrians in dark clothing
- Potholes harder to spot
- Limited assistance if problems
If you must drive at night:
- Stick to major routes
- Reduce speed significantly
- Use high beams when safe
- Stay extra alert
Mountain Roads
- Use lower gears for descents
- Don't ride brakes continuously
- Sound horn on blind curves
- Yield to uphill traffic
- Watch for rockfall areas
Desert Roads
- Fill up before entering remote areas
- Carry extra water (5L+ per person)
- Check tire condition
- Have shade/emergency supplies
- Tell someone your route
Practical Packing for Driving
In Your Car
- Water bottles
- Snacks
- Sunglasses
- Paper maps/printed directions
- Phone charger
- Cash (small bills)
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
Documents to Carry
- Driving license
- Passport or ID
- Rental agreement
- Insurance documents
- Emergency contacts list
Final Tips for Success
- Be patient - Rushing causes accidents
- Stay alert - Constant scanning saves problems
- Be flexible - Traffic, delays, and detours happen
- Learn key phrases - "Shukran" (thank you) goes far
- Enjoy the journey - The road is part of the adventure
Ready to Drive in Morocco?
With these tips in mind, you're prepared for a fantastic Moroccan road trip. Book your rental car with Carman and explore with confidence:
Our partners provide:
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Clear rental terms
- Well-maintained vehicles
- Local support
Start your Morocco driving adventure today!