Driving in Tunisia: the guide
Rules, speed limits, tolls, fuel, police checks and routes: everything to know before you get behind the wheel in Tunisia.
Renting a car is the best way to discover Tunisia at your own pace. Main roads are in good condition and well signposted, but a few local habits are worth knowing. Here are the essentials, written by Tuneasycar, a car rental company in Tunisia since 2005.
The essential rules
- Drive on the right and overtake on the left, as in continental Europe.
- Seat belts are compulsory, front and back.
- Hand-held phones are banned while driving: use a holder or hands-free kit.
- Alcohol: tolerance is very low and checks are frequent. The simplest rule: don’t drink before driving.
- Young children travel in the back, in a seat suited to their age.
Speed limits
| Type of road | Maximum speed |
|---|---|
| Built-up areas | 50 km/h |
| Roads | 90 km/h |
| Motorways | 110 km/h |
Fixed and mobile speed cameras are common at town entrances and on motorways. Road signs always prevail: limits can be lower locally, especially near schools.
Right of way and roundabouts
At unmarked junctions, priority is to the right. At roundabouts, habits vary: follow the give-way signs and stay alert, as not all drivers apply the same rule. Indicators are rarely used, so anticipate other vehicles changing lanes.
Motorways and tolls
The main motorways start from Tunis: the A1 to Hammamet, Enfidha, Sousse and Sfax, the A4 to Bizerte and the A3 towards Béja. They are tolled: take a ticket on entry and pay on exit. Amounts are small (a few dinars); keep cash in dinars handy.
Fuel
- Stations are plentiful on main roads and in towns, rarer inland: fill up before long drives.
- Fuel is cheaper than in Europe. Small stations often accept cash only.
- Check the fuel type shown on the filler flap (petrol or diesel) before filling up.
- With Tuneasycar, the car is returned with the same fuel level as at pick-up.
Police checks
Police and national guard checkpoints are frequent, especially at town entrances. Slow down as you approach; if you are waved over, calmly show your licence, passport and rental contract. Checks are usually quick and courteous.
Documents to keep in the car
- Your original driving licence. European licences are generally accepted for a tourist stay; if yours is not in the Latin alphabet, bring an International Driving Permit.
- Your passport or ID card.
- The rental contract and vehicle papers, provided with the car.
City driving and parking
- In Tunis, avoid rush hours if possible (early morning and late afternoon).
- Medinas are pedestrian: park outside and continue on foot.
- In many streets, parking attendants collect a small fee in cash.
- Never leave valuables visible in the car.
At night and on minor roads
Outside towns, lighting is limited. Watch out for pedestrians, two-wheelers without lights and animals on the road. On small country roads, slow down and avoid long night drives if possible.
Breakdown or accident
- Switch on your hazard lights and get to safety.
- Useful numbers: Police 197, National Guard 193, SAMU (ambulance) 190, Civil Protection 198.
- After an accident, an accident report or police report is required for the insurance.
- Contact Tuneasycar: our assistance answers 24/7 on WhatsApp or by phone on +216 25 572 757.
Recommended routes in the north
- The Cap Bon loop from Hammamet or Nabeul: Kelibia, El Haouaria, Korbous.
- Tunis and its coast from Tunis: Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, La Marsa, then Bizerte via the A4.
- The Sahel from Sousse: Port El Kantaoui, Monastir, El Jem and Mahdia.
- Roman history: Dougga, Zaghouan and its Water Temple, Thuburbo Majus.
FAQ about driving in Tunisia
Can I drive in Tunisia with a European licence?
Yes, European licences are generally accepted for a tourist stay. If your licence is not in the Latin alphabet, bring an International Driving Permit. Always carry the original licence.
What is the motorway speed limit in Tunisia?
The limit is 110 km/h on motorways, 90 km/h on roads and 50 km/h in built-up areas, unless signs say otherwise.
Are Tunisian motorways tolled?
Yes. You take a ticket on entry and pay on exit. Amounts are small; bring cash in dinars.
Do I need cash to drive in Tunisia?
It is recommended: tolls, parking attendants and many small fuel stations are paid in cash.
What should I do at a police check?
Slow down, stop if asked and show your licence, passport and rental contract. Checks are usually quick.
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