Algeria Overland
Encounter beautiful scenery, people, cultures and wonderful wildlife up close with our Overland trip near Algeria.
Driving in Algeria: Basic rules and useful info
Algerians drive on the right side of the road
While driving in Algeria, some useful words to know include à droite (right), à gauche (left), Kbala (straight), Kherdja (exit).
All road signs are in French and Arabic only
All highways in Algeria are toll-free. The roads are generally in very good condition
You must stop at all STOP signs and red traffic lights, and Obey all directions given by police officers.
The driver and the passenger sitting in the front seat must wear a seat belt.
It is illegal to have a mobile phone in your hands whilst driving. Cellphones can only be used with a Bluetooth hands-free device. If you use a cell phone while driving, this bluetooth hands free device works with many of today’s smartphones. The black-out windows are illegal in Algeria. Google Maps works most of the time.
Driving in Algeria as a visitor
Want to drive in Algeria? You’re right! Touring Algeria by car is the best way to enjoy the country and its beautiful landscapes. However, driving in Algeria can be intimidating given the reputation of Algerian drivers. That’s why I put together the following tips to help you have the best self-drive Algeria trip.
International driving permit
As a visitor to Algeria, if you are wanting to drive then you will need to be at least 18, and you’ll need to have a full license.
Technically, you don’t need an international driving permit. If you get stopped by a police officer, you probably won’t be asked for it. Or you might be! Really, it depends on the police officer and his/her mood. Though most likely he/she will simply ask for your driving license and car documents, I encourage you to get an international driving permit.
Driving in Algeria: Basic rules and useful info
- Driving in Algeria: Basic rules and useful info
- Algerians drive on the right side of the road
- While driving in Algeria, some useful words to know include à droite (right), à gauche (left), Kbala (straight), Kherdja (exit).
- All road signs are in French and Arabic only
- All highways in Algeria are toll-free.
- The roads are generally in very good condition
- You must stop at all STOP signs and red traffic lights
- Obey all directions given by police officers.
- The driver and the passenger sitting in the front seat must wear a seat belt.
- It is illegal to have a mobile phone in your hands whilst driving. Cellphones can only be used with a Bluetooth hands-free device. If you use a cell phone while driving, this bluetooth hands free device works with many of today’s smartphones.
- The black-out windows are illegal in Algeria.
- Google Maps works most of the time
Road speed limits in Algeria
Algerian roads have speed limits indicated by a white and red circle with the number (by kilometers, not miles, per hour). Speed limits vary depending on the road you are driving on. You can resume the national speed limit – 80 km/h on normal roads, and 120 km/h on motorways. Also, note that speed cameras are in wide use on the roads in Algeria and Military checkpoints are usually set up a few kilometers away from the speed cameras to stop drivers who don’t respect the speed limit. For minor violations, the driver will face fines and a license suspension.
Buying Petrol / Gas in Algeria
In Algeria, there is only one brand of gas station known as Naftal. There are 5 types of fuel – Sans Plomb (Unleaded petrol), Super (Premium), Essence Normal (Regular gas), diesel, and GPL (LP Gas). Fuel is sold and priced by the liter.
All gas stations have filling station attendants to pump fuel so you don’t need to do anything. You should always carry cash with you as most of the gas stations don’t accept cards.
When driving in Algeria, expect to be stopped by the police. The police officers can stop any vehicle for any reason- that can be for a random check or just to entertain themselves. When you are asked to pull over, they will likely ask you to show your driving license, carte grise (vehicle registration certificate), insurance certificate, contrôle technique (vehicle inspection report), and vignette.
If you are driving an LPG car, you will be asked to produce the authorization report.
It is also worth noting that most police officers don’t speak English but they are friendly and helpful.
Parking in Algerian cities
Parking in most Algerian cities can be a problem. Whatever you do, don’t park along red and white painted curbs- it’s a surefire way to get clamped. Often you’ll find parking attendants who will show you where to park. They will charge you a few Dinars (around 100) on your return. These aren’t official parking attendants and are disliked by locals but they often pay them.
Self-Drive In Algeria: Final tips for driving in Algeria
Traffic in big cities is intense! It’s always congested, people honk if you drive too slow and some drivers don’t hesitate to overtake on the left and right. My recommendation is to avoid driving in Algiers and other big cities.
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