One of the most common questions from first-time visitors to Morocco is: "What do I actually need to rent a car?" The short answer is simpler than you might think — but there are nuances that can trip you up. Here's the definitive checklist.
The Complete Document Checklist
Before you queue at any car rental desk in Morocco, have these ready:
| Document | Required? | Notes | | ---------------------------------- | ------------- | --------------------------- | | Valid driving licence | Always | Minimum 1–2 years old | | Passport | Always | Original or clear photocopy | | Credit card | Almost always | For security deposit | | International Driving Permit (IDP) | Sometimes | See details below |
1. Your Driving Licence
Your domestic driving licence is the primary document. Key requirements:
- Must be valid — not expired
- Must include a photo — licences without photos may not be accepted
- Must have been held for at least 1–2 years (most agencies specify 2 years; minimum age typically 21–23)
- Must be in a Roman alphabet — if your licence is in Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Cyrillic, Thai, etc., you must also carry an IDP
Which Licences Are Accepted?
| Licence | Accepted? | IDP Needed? | | --------------------------- | --------- | ------------------------ | | UK (DVLA) | Yes | No | | US (any state) | Yes | No | | EU (all 27 countries) | Yes | No | | Canadian | Yes | No | | Australian | Yes | No | | Japanese / Korean / Chinese | Sometimes | Yes — non-Latin alphabet | | Arabic-script licences | Sometimes | Yes |
2. International Driving Permit (IDP) — Who Really Needs One?
An IDP is a translation of your driving licence into multiple languages, including French and Arabic. It's not a licence on its own — it must be carried alongside your domestic licence.
You need an IDP if:
- Your licence is written in a non-Latin alphabet
- The rental agency's contract specifically requires one (uncommon but it happens)
You don't need an IDP if:
- Your licence is in English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, or another Latin-script language
- You're from an EU/UK/US/Canadian/Australian background
How to get an IDP:
- UK: Apply at the Post Office (£5.50, takes minutes, valid 1 year)
- US: Apply via AAA or AATA (about $20, valid 1 year)
- Apply before travel — you cannot get one in Morocco
3. Passport
Your passport is required for identity verification. Most agencies take a photocopy — bring your original in case they want to verify it.
Keep your passport accessible during your rental period. Morocco has regular police checkpoints on highways and at city exits. You'll typically be waved through, but occasionally documents are checked.
4. Credit Card
A credit card is required by almost all Moroccan car rental agencies. Here's why:
- Security deposit ("caution"): The agency blocks a portion of your card — typically 3,000–10,000 MAD (~$300–$1,000) depending on the car. This is released after safe return.
- Final payment: Some agencies charge the rental fee on the card at pickup; others take cash.
Which Cards Are Accepted?
- Visa and Mastercard: Universally accepted
- American Express: Accepted by some, not all — confirm in advance
- Debit cards: Generally not accepted for the deposit (the block requires a credit card)
- Prepaid cards: Usually not accepted
No Credit Card? Some Options:
A handful of local agencies accept a cash deposit instead of a card hold. This is rare and the deposit amount tends to be higher. When sending a booking request on kara.ma, mention that you don't have a credit card — the agency can clarify their policy directly.
5. Minimum Age Requirements
| Car Category | Minimum Age (typical) | | ----------------- | --------------------- | | Economy / Compact | 21–23 years | | SUV | 23–25 years | | Premium / Sports | 25 years | | Minibus | 25 years |
Note: "Young driver surcharges" are common for drivers under 25. Expect an extra $3–8/day.
At the Rental Desk: What to Expect
- Documents are photocopied — the agency keeps copies of your licence, passport, and the card used for the deposit
- You sign the rental agreement — read the contract, especially the excess/franchise amount and insurance coverage
- Car inspection — walk around the car with the agent and mark any existing damage on the inspection form. Photograph everything.
- Keys and paperwork — you should receive: keys, the signed contract, and proof of insurance
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Expired licence — check the expiry date before you travel. Agencies will turn you away if it's expired.
- Wrong card holder — the card used for the deposit must be in the name of the primary driver
- Not photographing existing damage — without photos, you have no defence against disputed damage charges on return
- Not reading the excess amount — the insurance excess ("franchise") can be as high as 10,000 MAD. Make sure you understand what you're liable for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an IDP to drive in Morocco?
Only if your licence is in a non-Latin alphabet. UK, US, EU, Canadian, and Australian licences are all accepted without an IDP.
Can I use a debit card instead of a credit card?
Most agencies require a credit card for the deposit. Some local agencies accept cash deposits — ask when booking.
How old do I need to be to rent a car in Morocco?
Minimum 21 years old at most agencies, but some require 23 or 25 depending on the car category.
Can two people drive the rental car?
Yes, but the second driver must be listed on the contract and show their documents too. Most agencies charge an "additional driver" fee of 50–150 MAD/day.
Ready to Rent?
Now that you know exactly what to bring, find a verified Moroccan car rental agency on kara.ma →