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Driving in Morocco: What to Know

Self-driving is one of the best ways to see Morocco - main roads are good, scenery is spectacular, and it unlocks the countryside. But city traffic and mountain passes demand respect. Here's how to drive safely. (For rentals and costs, see renting a car in Morocco.)

The Rules

Drive on the right; seatbelts mandatory; near-zero tolerance on drink-driving.
Speed limits: ~120 km/h motorway, 100 open road, 40-60 in towns. Radars are common.
Motorways (autoroutes) are excellent toll roads linking the main cities - keep cash for tolls.
Carry your licence, passport, rental papers and insurance at all times.

Police Checkpoints

Gendarmerie checkpoints are routine on intercity roads - slow down, be polite, have documents ready. They're usually a quick wave-through. Speeding fines are issued on the spot (get a receipt).

City vs Mountain vs Desert

Cities: chaotic - scooters, carts and confident pedestrians. Go slow, stay calm; consider parking outside medinas and walking in.
Mountain passes (like Tizi n'Tichka): stunning but winding - drive in daylight only, watch for trucks and hairpins.
Rural/desert roads: watch for animals, unlit vehicles at night, and sudden potholes. Avoid night driving.

Fuel and Practicalities

Full-service stations everywhere on main routes; fill up before remote stretches. A small tip for the attendant is normal (tipping guide).
Use Google Maps offline for the desert; grab a local SIM.
Guarded parking (the vested gardiens) is cheap and worth it in cities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to drive in Morocco?

Yes, with care. Main roads and motorways are good; the risks are chaotic city traffic, winding mountain passes and night driving - so go slow in towns, drive passes by day and avoid rural roads after dark.

Do you need an international driving permit for Morocco?

Most rentals accept a national licence for tourists, but an International Driving Permit is recommended and sometimes requested - easy to get before you travel.

Are there tolls in Morocco?

Yes - the motorways between major cities are excellent toll roads. Keep some cash handy for the toll booths.