Guide to Driving In Tunisia - Drive Safe in Tunisia

It’s mandatory for all occupants of a vehicle to wear seat belts when it’s moving.

You will need to have your driving licence, and proof that your car is insured, usually by way of your certificate of motor insurance. You’ll also need your proof of ownership documents. International Driving Permits are useful but not obligatory.

You must be 18 to be able to drive in Tunisia if driving a locally registered car or your own car. Renting a car is not usually possible until you are 21 depending on the car hire company. Check when booking as you may have to pay a small daily premium if you are under 25.

It’s not illegal to use a speed trap detection device in Tunisia but we would recommend, given the driving conditions, that you put it away and stick to the limit for your own safety and that of other road users.

If you are stopped by the police in Tunisia they should give you a ticket detailing the offence, the fine and where to pay it. You may be asked to pay there and then but this is illegal. Politely ask for the ticket or, if you have to hand over cash, ask for a receipt. 

In Tunisia, no child under twelve is meant to travel in the front seat but this is regularly flouted. Children under 7 years old should have an appropriate child seat fitted in the rear of the vehicle. If you are renting a car, tell us your requirements before you travel and we’ll ensure that the correct system is fitted.

A minimum of third party insurance is compulsory in Tunisia and you'll need to be able to prove you have it with your insurance certificate.

There is zero tolerance of alcohol in the blood of a driver in Tunisia with it being a strict Muslim country. If you are caught with alcohol in your bloodstream, the penalties are severe and can include a jail term and possible deportation afterwards.

Ensure that the vehicle being towed is securely attached and that you have good visibility all round.

Fixed speed cameras are a novelty in Tunisia so you may not encounter one at all. Mobile speed traps are much more common and if caught by one, you’ll be given a ticket indicating a fine based on how far over the limit you were travelling.

Using a phone without a hands free kit whilst driving in Tunisia is illegal despite many drivers still doing so.

In Tunisia, traffic light sequences follow the guidelines of the Vienna Convention and so should be familiar to European drivers. It’s illegal to turn right on a red light.

There are several toll roads in Tunisia including the A1, A2, A3 and A4 motorways. The tolls are inexpensive and worthwhile for being able to drive long distances on decent roads. You must pay in cash so have change handy in the car.