L&M CAR - Official Moroccan Car Rental & Transport Legal FAQ

Question 1

Do you deliver to Tangier Airport (TNG)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. L&M CAR delivers free at Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport terminal 24/7 with flight tracking and meet & greet. We also deliver to Tanger Med port, hotels and the city center.

Question 2

Is unlimited mileage included?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every L&M CAR rental in Tangier includes unlimited mileage, full insurance (CDW) and 24/7 roadside assistance across Morocco.

Question 3

Why book with L&M CAR instead of an aggregator?

Accepted Answer

Direct local agency since 2004, FALAM & ALAT member, 4.8/5 from 78 Google reviews, transparent MAD pricing with no hidden fees, and WhatsApp support from booking to return.

Question 4

Is it better to pre-book car hire in Tangier?

Accepted Answer

Yes, especially June-September and for SUVs, 4x4s and automatics, which sell out. Pre-booking locks your rate and category, and L&M CAR offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before pickup.

Question 5

What is the $200 charge on Hertz rental cars?

Accepted Answer

That is Hertz prepaid policy: cancel within 24 hours of pickup and a fee of about $200 applies, and no-shows forfeit the prepayment. L&M CAR is simpler: free cancellation up to 24 hours before pickup; later cancellations cost one day of rental at most.

Question 6

Why did Hertz charge me an extra fee after my rental?

Accepted Answer

We cannot speak for other companies, but surprise post-rental charges are usually card holds settling, toll or fuel adjustments, or damage claims. At L&M CAR every amount (rate, excess, deposit) is printed on your contract, the deposit release is receipted, and nothing is charged without your signature.

Question 7

What happens if you return a rental car late?

Accepted Answer

Rental days are 24-hour blocks. A short delay is no drama if you message us on WhatsApp first; a significantly late return can count as an extra day. Always agree the return time in advance and keep the signed return receipt.

Question 8

How do I avoid or dispute a rental car cleaning fee?

Accepted Answer

Return the car in reasonable condition and photograph the interior, exterior, wheels, windshield and dashboard at both pickup and return. Normal use is never charged; only excessive dirt or smoke odour incurs a cleaning fee, and timestamped photos settle any dispute instantly.

Question 9

How do I cancel a booking?

Accepted Answer

Free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup. Cancellations within 48 hours incur a one-day rental charge.

Question 10

Can I modify my booking dates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, date changes are free if made more than 24 hours before the scheduled pickup time, subject to availability.

Question 11

What are the driving rules and speed limits in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Drive on the right. Speed limits are 120 km/h on motorways, 100 km/h on national roads and 60 km/h in cities. Seatbelts are mandatory, phone use while driving is fined, and radar controls are frequent. Rental cars may not cross into Ceuta or board Spain ferries.

Question 12

Is it safe to drive in Tangier as a tourist?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with defensive driving. Tangier is manageable outside peak hours; mountain roads need daylight and care. Park in guarded lots (10-20 MAD/day), keep your licence and rental contract in the glovebox, and never attempt the medina alleys by car.

Question 13

Can you drive in Morocco as a tourist?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Tourists may drive for up to one year on a valid foreign licence. Carry your licence, passport copy, rental contract and insurance papers in the car at all times for police checkpoints.

Question 14

How difficult is it to drive in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Moderate. Cities need defensive driving around scooters and pedestrians, highways are modern and easy, and mountain roads demand daylight and care. Most visitors adapt within a day; Tangier itself is manageable outside peak hours.

Question 15

Can you go on your phone while driving in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

No. Holding a phone while driving is illegal and fined on the spot by the gendarmerie. Use a hands-free mount, wear your seatbelt, and never park on red-and-white kerbs or you risk being towed.

Question 16

What color car is least likely to get stolen?

Accepted Answer

No reliable data links car color to theft in Morocco. What matters is behavior: park in guarded lots (10-20 MAD/day), lock up, keep luggage in the boot out of sight, and never leave valuables visible.

Question 17

How do motorway tolls (Péages ADM) work in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Morocco has a modern 1,800+ km motorway network managed by Autoroutes du Maroc (ADM). The system uses ticket-based closed tolls: you collect a ticket upon entering and pay at the exit barrier based on distance driven. Tolls can be paid in cash (MAD) or by card; automatic Jawaz electronic toll passes are also in use. Tangier to Rabat/Casablanca costs roughly 165-185 MAD in tolls.

Question 18

What fuel type do rental cars take in Morocco and what is the policy?

Accepted Answer

Most rental vehicles in Morocco run on diesel (gasoil), which is widely accessible across all service stations (Afriquia, Shell, Total, Winxo), with some models on unleaded petrol (sans plomb). The fuel type is clearly marked on the fuel flap and rental contract. L&M CAR provides full-to-full fuel delivery, ensuring you only pay for the fuel you actually consume.

Question 19

Do I need a car in Tangier?

Accepted Answer

For the medina alone, no: it is walkable and blue petit taxis are metered from about 7 MAD. For Cap Spartel, Asilah, Tetouan or Chefchaouen, yes: buses waste hours and grand taxis charge 300-600 MAD per day trip with no flexibility.

Question 20

Are taxis expensive in Tangier, and is there Uber?

Accepted Answer

Taxis are cheap in town, but airport to center costs 150-250 MAD each way. Uber lists Tangier, yet blue petit taxis and grand taxis remain the reliable default, so do not land counting on app availability.

Question 21

How do tourists get around in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Between cities: comfortable CTM and Supratours buses, ONCF trains on the Tangier-Casablanca-Marrakech axis, and domestic flights. Inside cities: petit taxis for short hops, grand taxis for fixed intercity routes, and a rental car for maximum freedom in the north.

Question 22

How do I get around in Tangier without a car?

Accepted Answer

Walk the medina and Kasbah, take blue petit taxis (metered from about 7 MAD) for evenings, and bus 2A (7 MAD) for the Cap Spartel direction. For Asilah, Tetouan or Chefchaouen day trips, a car or grand taxi is needed.

Question 23

Are taxis in Morocco expensive?

Accepted Answer

No. Petit taxis are metered and cheap inside cities; grand taxis run fixed per-seat fares between towns. Agree whether the price is per car or per seat before departing, and expect night and airport supplements.

Question 24

Can I add an additional driver?

Accepted Answer

Yes, additional drivers can be added for a fee of 50 MAD/day. They must also present their license at pickup.

Question 25

What is included in the insurance?

Accepted Answer

Basic insurance covers third-party liability. Comprehensive insurance covers damage to the rental vehicle with zero deductible.

Question 26

Is car insurance mandatory in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Under Article 120 of Loi n° 17-99 (Code des Assurances), compulsory third-party liability insurance (Responsabilité Civile Automobile — RCA) is legally mandatory for all motor vehicles operating on public roads in Morocco. Operating an uninsured vehicle is a criminal offense carrying heavy fines, vehicle impoundment, and personal liability for all damages. All L&M CAR rentals include full legal RCA coverage plus Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) as standard.

Question 27

What does CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) cover under Moroccan rental contracts?

Accepted Answer

CDW (assurance tous risques) covers physical damage to the rental car resulting from collisions, impacts, or rollovers, limiting renter liability to the deductible excess (franchise) stated on the contract. However, under Moroccan insurance regulations, CDW excludes: driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, off-road driving on unpaved dirt tracks (pistes non carrossables), interior burns, negligence (e.g. driving with flat tires or misfuelling), and unauthorized drivers not listed on the rental agreement.

Question 28

What should I do if I have a car accident in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Follow this mandatory legal procedure: (1) Stop immediately and turn on hazard lights; place the warning triangle 30m behind (100m on highways). (2) If anyone is injured, call SAMU (141) or Protection Civile (15) and Police (19 in cities) or Gendarmerie (177 on highways/rural roads). Never move vehicles if there are bodily injuries. (3) If the accident involves only property damage, complete a bilingual Constat Amiable (Joint Accident Statement) with the other driver. (4) Notify L&M CAR immediately on our 24/7 hotline (+212 661 14 55 55). (5) Submit the signed Constat to the agency within 5 working days as required by Moroccan insurance law.

Question 29

What is a "Constat Amiable" and is it legally binding in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

The Constat Amiable is the standardized joint accident declaration established by the Moroccan Insurance Federation (FMSAR). It records driver identities, licence numbers, insurance policies, vehicle damage, and a mutually agreed sketch of the accident. Once signed by both drivers, the front sheet cannot be modified and serves as legal evidence for insurance fault determination without going to court. An official blank Constat form is provided in the glovebox of every L&M CAR vehicle.

Question 30

Can I legally take a Moroccan rental car into Ceuta, Melilla, or onto a ferry to Spain?

Accepted Answer

No. Under the Cahier des Charges of the Moroccan Ministry of Transport and Moroccan insurance policy terms, rental cars licensed in Morocco are strictly restricted to the national territory. Taking a vehicle through the Bab Sebta border into Ceuta, Beni Enzar into Melilla, or boarding maritime ferries to Spain or Europe is prohibited. Doing so completely voids all insurance coverages (RCA and CDW), breaches the rental agreement, and exposes the driver to full civil and criminal liabilities.

Question 31

What is the legal status of the vehicle condition report (état des lieux)?

Accepted Answer

Under the Moroccan Dahir des Obligations et Contrats (DOC, Articles 723 to 745 governing rental contracts), the vehicle condition report (état des lieux contradictoire) signed by both client and agency at delivery and return constitutes legal proof of vehicle condition. Any existing scratches, dents, fuel level, and mileage are documented. We always recommend taking timestamped photos or video of the vehicle at pick-up to ensure absolute transparency.

Question 32

What happens if a rental vehicle is towed to the municipal pound (fourrière)?

Accepted Answer

Under municipal traffic bylaws and the Code de la Route, vehicles parked illegally (on red-and-white kerbs, blocking tram tracks, double-parking, or in prohibited zones) may be clamped (sabot) or towed to the municipal car pound (fourrière municipale). The driver is responsible for paying the municipal impound fee (redevance de fourrière, typically 150 to 300 MAD plus daily storage) and retrieving the vehicle using the rental contract and vehicle registration papers. Contact L&M CAR immediately for assistance if your vehicle is towed.

Question 33

What are the rules regarding passenger capacity in a rental car?

Accepted Answer

The maximum number of authorized occupants is legally defined on the vehicle's Carte Grise (registration certificate) and must not exceed the number of functional seatbelts. Under Loi 52-05, carrying passengers exceeding the certified seat capacity is an infraction that automatically voids insurance coverage in the event of an accident. Always verify the seat capacity of your chosen vehicle before travel.

Question 34

What is the Code de la Route in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Morocco's road traffic is governed by Loi n° 52-05 (promulgated by Dahir n° 1-10-07 of 26 Safar 1431), which took full effect on 1 October 2010 and was subsequently strengthened by Loi n° 116-14 (Dahir n° 1-16-89). It establishes the point-based driving licence (permis à points), statutory speed limits, automated speed cameras, mandatory breathalysers, and the fine classification system. All provisions apply equally to Moroccan citizens, foreign residents, and international tourists.

Question 35

What are the legal speed limits in Morocco under Loi 52-05?

Accepted Answer

Under Loi 52-05 and its implementing decrees: (1) Motorways (autoroutes): 120 km/h; (2) Expressways and rural national roads (routes nationales): 100 km/h; (3) Regional and provincial roads: 80 km/h; (4) Urban agglomerations (zones urbaines): 60 km/h, reduced to 40 km/h in school zones and hazardous curves. Radar controls (both automated NARSA speed cameras and mobile laser units by Gendarmerie Royale and DGSN) are active throughout the Kingdom.

Question 36

How do traffic fines and immediate settlement discounts (ATF) work in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Under the Moroccan ATF (Amende Transactionnelle et Forfaitaire) system established by Dahir 1-16-89: (1) 1st Class Infractions (e.g. speeding by 50+ km/h, red lights, stop sign violation): standard fine 700 MAD, discounted to 400 MAD if paid immediately on the spot, 500 MAD within 15 days; (2) 2nd Class (speeding 30-49 km/h, mobile phone, seatbelt non-compliance): standard 500 MAD, discounted to 300 MAD on the spot, 350 MAD within 15 days; (3) 3rd Class (speeding 20-29 km/h, document omission): standard 300 MAD, discounted to 150 MAD on the spot, 200 MAD within 15 days. Officers must issue an official stamped receipt (bulletin de perception).

Question 37

What is the legal blood alcohol limit (alcootest) for drivers in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Under Article 98 of Loi 52-05 modified by Loi 116-14 / Dahir 1-16-89, the statutory limit is 0.20 g/l of blood (or 0.10 mg/l of exhaled air) — effectively zero tolerance. Driving under the influence of alcohol is a criminal offense (délit pénal) under Article 177: punishable by 5,000 to 10,000 MAD in fines, 6 months to 1 year imprisonment (or one of the two), and immediate licence suspension. Crucially for car rental: alcohol completely voids all insurance coverage (CDW, third-party RCA, and theft), making the driver 100% personally liable for all damages.

Question 38

Are roadside drug tests used by police in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Article 99 of Loi 52-05 strictly prohibits operating a motor vehicle under the influence of narcotics, illicit substances, or medications that impair driving reflexes. The Gendarmerie Royale and National Police are legally empowered to administer rapid saliva screening tests (dépistage salivaire) at roadside checkpoints. A positive test carries identical criminal penalties to alcohol (fines up to 10,000 MAD, imprisonment, and licence suspension), alongside criminal drug possession charges.

Question 39

Is using a mobile phone while driving prohibited in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Article 56 of Loi 52-05 explicitly forbids holding a mobile telephone or wearing audio earphones while driving. It is categorized as a 2nd-class infraction: 500 MAD fine (discounted to 300 MAD if settled immediately on the spot) plus a 1-point licence penalty. Integrated in-car hands-free Bluetooth systems are legal as long as the phone is not handled while driving.

Question 40

What are the rules for seatbelts and child safety seats in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Under Article 53 of Loi 52-05, seatbelts are compulsory for all passengers in both front and rear seats on all public roads. Children under 10 years of age are legally prohibited from riding in the front passenger seat and must be secured in the rear using an approved child restraint system (siège auto or booster cushion). Failure to comply carries a 300 MAD fine (150 MAD on-the-spot settlement). L&M CAR provides certified child seats upon reservation.

Question 41

What emergency safety equipment is legally required in the vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Under Article 51 of Loi 52-05, every motor vehicle in Morocco must be equipped with: (1) a certified reflective warning triangle (triangle de présignalisation), and (2) a high-visibility retro-reflective vest (gilet de sécurité). In the event of an immobilization or breakdown on the roadway, wearing the vest and deploying the triangle at least 30 meters behind the vehicle (100 meters on motorways) is mandatory. Both items are inspected and present in every L&M CAR vehicle.

Question 42

What are the legal rules at police and gendarmerie checkpoints (barrages)?

Accepted Answer

Police checkpoints (DGSN in towns) and Gendarmerie Royale checkpoints (on rural roads and motorway exits) are standard throughout Morocco. Under Article 128 of Loi 52-05, drivers must slow down and come to a full stop when approaching a 'Ralentir' or 'Halte Police / Gendarmerie' sign. Refusal to stop (Refus d'obtempérer, Article 181) is a criminal offense carrying a fine of 2,000 to 12,000 MAD and 1 to 6 months imprisonment. Officers will inspect your licence, rental agreement, and car papers. If a fine is levied, ensure you receive an official numbered payment receipt.

Question 43

Who is legally liable for automated speed camera (radar fixe) fines on a rental car?

Accepted Answer

Under Article 131 of Loi 52-05, automated speed cameras operate under the jurisdiction of NARSA (Agence Nationale de la Sécurité Routière). When a speeding citation is captured, NARSA issues the violation to the registered vehicle owner (the rental agency). By law, the agency must disclose the client identity from the signed rental contract for the exact date and timestamp of the infraction. The renter remains legally and financially responsible for paying the fine.

Question 44

What is the penalty for hit-and-run (délit de fuite) in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Under Article 146 of Loi n° 52-05, leaving the scene of an accident without stopping to identify oneself and assist injured parties constitutes a délit de fuite. Penalties include 2,000 to 10,000 MAD in fines and 1 month to 2 years imprisonment, doubled in cases where bodily injuries occur. Always remain at the scene, secure the area with hazard lights and a warning triangle, and await the arrival of the police (19) or gendarmerie (177).

Question 45

Is overtaking on a continuous white line legal in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

No. Crossing or straddling a continuous white or yellow centre line (ligne continue) is strictly prohibited under the Moroccan highway code. It constitutes a serious 1st-class traffic infraction: 700 MAD fine (400 MAD on-the-spot settlement) and a 4-point deduction. Mountain roads in the Rif and Atlas frequently feature continuous lines due to blind curves; passing is only permitted when the line is clearly dashed.

Question 46

Do you accept debit cards?

Accepted Answer

We accept major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express). Debit cards are accepted for payment but not for the security deposit.

Question 47

What payment methods are available?

Accepted Answer

We accept cash (MAD), credit cards, and bank transfers. Online payments are also available for advance bookings.

Question 48

How much does it cost to rent a car in Tangier?

Accepted Answer

Car rental Tangier starts from 250 MAD/day with L&M CAR. Economy cars (Dacia Logan, Renault Clio) are cheapest; SUVs and luxury cost more. Unlimited mileage, insurance and free airport delivery are included.

Question 49

Is it expensive to rent a car in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

No. Morocco is one of the cheaper rental markets: economy cars run 250-500 MAD/day and diesel costs about 13.8 MAD per litre. A week in economy often costs less than four guided day trips.

Question 50

How much does it cost to rent a car for a day in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Countrywide, economy cars go for roughly 250-500 MAD per day, SUVs 500-800 MAD and luxury 1,200-2,500 MAD. In Tangier a one-day economy rental plus fuel for a 120 km sightseeing loop typically totals under 500 MAD all-in.

Question 51

Is it cheaper to rent a car at the airport or off-site?

Accepted Answer

Off-site agencies with free airport delivery are usually cheapest: you skip the 100-200 MAD airport surcharges that terminal desks add. L&M CAR meets you inside Tangier Airport arrivals free, so you get on-site convenience at off-site prices.

Question 52

How can I get the best deal on a rental car in Tangier?

Accepted Answer

Book direct instead of via aggregators, travel outside July-August, rent for 7+ days to trigger weekly rates, and compare all-in totals (rate + insurance + mileage + fuel policy) rather than headline daily prices. Message us on WhatsApp for an exact quote before you fly.

Question 53

Is it cheaper to rent a car longer or shorter?

Accepted Answer

Longer. The daily rate drops with weekly deals (often priced as 6 days for 7) and monthly rates fall further, e.g. economy from around 6,500 MAD per month. For 3+ days, always ask for the weekly total.

Question 54

What is the cheapest day to book a car rental?

Accepted Answer

There is no magic weekday: prices move with season and demand, not the booking day. Booking 2-4 weeks ahead for summer and picking up mid-week (fewer flight arrivals) gives the best choice of cars and rates.

Question 55

Can you negotiate with car rental companies?

Accepted Answer

Published MAD rates are generally fixed, but longer rentals, low season and repeat customers earn real discounts. Send your dates and itinerary on WhatsApp and we will quote the sharpest all-in total instead of haggling at a counter.

Question 56

Who is cheaper out of Hertz or Enterprise in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Both operate through local franchises with similar standardized pricing and credit-card-only deposits. Well-reviewed local agencies are typically 20-30% cheaper than either, with free airport delivery and flexible deposits.

Question 57

Does Hertz offer a senior discount on car rental?

Accepted Answer

Ask Hertz directly for its own programmes. L&M CAR has no age-based senior tariff: any licensed driver 21+ (licence held 2+ years) rents at the same listed rates, and everyone gets the same weekly and monthly discounts.

Question 58

Why are cars so expensive to buy in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Most cars are imported, and import duties, VAT and registration taxes stack onto the price before sale. That purchase market is exactly why renting (from 250 MAD/day) beats buying for any visit under a year.

Question 59

What is the most sold car in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

Dacia dominates Moroccan sales year after year, with the Logan, Sandero and Duster among the country's best-sellers. That is no coincidence: they are cheap to run, easy to park and simple to service, which is also why they anchor our rental fleet.

Question 60

What documents do I need to rent a car?

Accepted Answer

You need a valid driver license (held for at least 1 year), a valid passport or ID, and a credit card for the security deposit.

Question 61

What is the minimum age to rent?

Accepted Answer

The minimum age is 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge.

Question 62

Can I rent a car in Tangier without a deposit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, selected vehicles are available with no security deposit. Standard rentals need a refundable deposit. All options show the exact deposit before you book, no surprises.

Question 63

What documents do I need to rent a car in Tangier?

Accepted Answer

A valid driving licence held for at least 2 years plus passport or national ID. Minimum driver age is 21. Book online in 60 seconds with free cancellation.

Question 64

What are the requirements to rent a car in Morocco?

Accepted Answer

You must be at least 21, hold a valid physical driving licence (2+ years for most cars), show a passport or national ID, and leave a refundable deposit. EU, UK, US, Canadian and GCC licences are accepted for tourists.