Driving in France when you come from Morocco
The Moroccan highway code draws heavily on the French one, so many rules look alike. That is exactly what makes the differences treacherous: you do not expect them. Here are the main ones.
Speed limits
In Morocco
Generally 60 km/h in built-up areas, 100 on other roads and 120 on motorways, with lower signed sections.
In France
50 in built-up areas, 80 on other roads (90 where the local authority has decided so), 110 on dual carriageways and 130 on motorways, reduced to 110 in rain.
Source: Code de la route, art. R413-2 and R413-3
Roundabouts
In Morocco
They have multiplied recently. A Moroccan study notes that their priority rules, the reverse of what drivers were used to, are a frequent source of confusion; some are also fitted with traffic lights.
In France
At a roundabout signed as such, you give way to vehicles already on the ring. A circular junction without that sign falls under priority to the right.
Source: Code de la route, art. R415-10, R110-2 and R415-5
Phones
In Morocco
Using a phone while driving is prohibited.
In France
Hand-held phones are banned, and so is wearing any sound-emitting device in the ear, even switched off. Only the car’s built-in audio remains usable.
Source: Code de la route, art. R412-6-1
Alcohol
In Morocco
The limit is 0.20 g per litre of blood, or 0.10 mg per litre of exhaled air.
In France
The general limit is 0.5 g per litre of blood, and 0.2 g for probationary licence holders and public transport drivers. A higher limit is not an invitation: the safest choice remains not to drink before driving.
Source: Code de la route, art. R234-1
The rules look alike; the reflexes much less so. Our programmes work precisely on these gaps, on the routes you actually drive, and our sessions can be held in Arabic.
These differences summarise general rules and do not replace the Code de la route. Rules abroad may vary by state or region. For the validity of a foreign licence, refer to service-public.fr and the ANTS.