First time behind the wheel in Morocco? Driving in Casablanca takes a little adjustment: traffic is dense, driving habits differ from Europe and parking has its own rules. Here are our practical tips, drawn from our experience as a rental agency, to get around the economic capital with peace of mind.
Traffic in Casablanca: what to expect
- Rush hours: in the morning (around 8-10am) and late afternoon (around 5-8pm), main roads are very busy. Allow extra time, especially when heading to the airport.
- Defensive driving: lane changes without indicators, pedestrians crossing anywhere, scooters weaving through traffic… stay alert and keep your distance.
- Roundabouts: there are many in Casablanca. Priority rules can vary from one roundabout to another: watch the signs, slow down and proceed carefully.
- Tram: it runs through several districts. Never park on the tracks and be especially careful at intersections.
- GPS: Google Maps and Waze work very well and help you avoid traffic jams.
Parking in Casablanca
- Parking attendants: in many streets, attendants (often wearing a vest) keep an eye on cars. It is customary to give them a few dirhams when you leave.
- Paid parking: some city-centre areas are paid parking with meters. Follow the signs: wheel clamps are used for violations.
- Underground car parks: convenient and secure, especially near shopping centres and main roads. The best option for leaving your car for several hours.
- Choose a small car if you’ll mostly stay in town: it will be much easier to park. See our models in our article economy car rental in Casablanca.
Speed cameras, police checks and rules to follow
- Speed limits: follow the signs strictly. Limits are low in town and speed cameras, fixed or mobile, are common, including at the entrances and exits of Casablanca.
- Police checks: they are frequent, especially on roads leaving the city. Always carry your driving licence, ID and the vehicle documents provided by the agency.
- Seat belts: mandatory for all passengers, front and back.
- Phone while driving: forbidden. Use a phone holder for your GPS.
- Alcohol: tolerance is close to zero in Morocco. Don’t drive after drinking.
To learn which documents you need, read our article renting a car in Morocco: documents, minimum age and driving rules.
Leaving Casablanca: motorways and tolls
Casablanca is connected by motorway to Rabat, Marrakech, El Jadida and the rest of the country. Motorways are tolled: keep some cash or a card for the toll booths. Fuel stations are plentiful in town and along the main roads. Looking for ideas? See our article road trip from Casablanca.
Our tips for a stress-free rental
- Get the car delivered: EST CAR delivers free of charge 24/7 at Mohammed V Airport, so you don’t have to cross the city by taxi with your luggage. More in our guide to car rental at Mohammed V Airport.
- Walk around the car at handover and take a few photos.
- Save the agency’s number: our team can be reached 7 days a week by phone and WhatsApp if you need help.
- Drive with peace of mind: unlimited mileage, and full coverage insurance with an excess of only 5% on all categories except Economy (basic insurance). Details on our Prices page.
Or call us on +212 667 46 56 39.