Moroccan Police Checkpoints and Speeding Fines: What Tourists Should Know
Police checkpoints and radar speed traps are a normal part of driving in Morocco. They are routine and almost always uneventful when you are polite and have your papers ready.
Use Waze like most Moroccan drivers do
Most people in Morocco use the free Waze app to get around, and it is the single best tool for avoiding surprises on the road. Waze describes itself as a GPS and live traffic app powered by its community: drivers report what they see, and everyone nearby benefits.
- Police and radar alerts: drivers flag police checkpoints and speed traps ahead, so you can slow down in time.
- Live traffic and jams: see congestion in Agadir, on the A7 motorway and around Marrakech, and get re-routed automatically.
- Accidents, roadworks and hazards: objects on the road, stopped vehicles and works are reported in real time.
- Speed limit display and warnings to help you stay within the limit.
Need data on the road? Auto Agadir offers a 4G Pocket WiFi Router add-on with its rental cars, so Waze keeps working outside your hotel Wi-Fi.
What happens at a checkpoint
- Slow down well before the checkpoint and follow the officer's signal.
- Greet politely and lower your window.
- Show your driving licence, passport copy and the car papers if asked.
- Wait until you are told to go. Do not argue.
In most cases you are waved through. Officers may check the licence, the car papers and the insurance certificate.
Documents to keep in the car
- Driving licence (and IDP if you have one)
- Passport or a copy of the photo and entry pages
- Rental contract
- Registration document (carte grise) and insurance certificate
Agencies like Auto Agadir provide these with the car. Check they are in the glove box at pick-up.
Speed limits and radar
Speed limits are typically 120 km/h on motorways, 100 km/h on open roads and 60 km/h in towns. Mobile radars are frequent on straight stretches and at town entrances. If you are stopped for speeding, stay calm and accept the process.
Other rules that trigger fines
- Not stopping completely at a STOP sign
- Using a phone while driving
- Not wearing a seat belt
- Overtaking over a solid line
- Parking in a prohibited zone
Read our general driving safety guide for tourists for more road habits.
Frequently asked questions
Which navigation app do most people use in Morocco?
Most drivers use Waze, a free community-powered app with live traffic and road alerts, including police and hazard reports. Google Maps is also widely used.
Do I have to stop at every police checkpoint?
Yes, slow down and follow the officer's instructions. Many drivers are simply waved through.
Who pays a speeding fine in a rental car?
The driver is responsible. Agencies can pass fines on, so keep your records and the receipt.
What should I do if I do not understand the officer?
Stay polite, show your documents and call your rental agency for help.
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