Crossing the Tarajal with a Spanish car towards Morocco has three requirements: vehicle documentation, a valid insurance policy for Morocco and the temporary admission at Moroccan customs. This is the honest, up-to-date summary.
1 · The paperwork customs ask for
- Passport of the driver, valid (Spaniards do not need a visa for tourist stays).
- Vehicle registration document for the vehicle, in the driver's name or with the owner's authorisation (if the car isn't yours, written authorisation — customs are strict about this).
- Documentation for the occupants: ID card/passport for everyone; minors with their documents and, if they are not travelling with both parents, authorisation is recommended.
- Valid ITV (roadworthiness test): they may ask for it; you cannot cross without it.
2 · Insurance: green card (CIS) or border insurance
- CIS (formerly “green card”): the international certificate issued by your Spanish insurer that proves cover in Morocco. Ask your insurer for it before travelling (many insurers don't include it or charge a supplement). It is the route recommended by the Spanish Motor Insurers' Bureau (OFESAUTO).
- No CIS = border insurance: if your policy doesn't cover Morocco, you can take out temporary insurance at the border offices (Moroccan insurers, e.g. at the Tarajal/Tangier crossing itself). It covers the Moroccan legal minimum.
- Drive always with the insurance receipt on you: Moroccan checks ask for it.
3 · Temporary admission of the vehicle (DMI)
- On entry, Moroccan customs register the vehicle under temporary admission (today a white card, previously the “livret”): it allows you to use it in Morocco without paying import duties.
- Time limit: limited (as a rule, up to 6 months per year for non-residents). Exceeding the deadline entails penalties and even immobilisation of the vehicle — Moroccan customs has this automated.
- On exit, make sure they stamp the exit of the vehicle: if it isn't recorded, you'll have problems next time.
- The car must leave with the same holder: don't leave the vehicle in Morocco in someone else's name.
Note: the customs allowance applies to luggage, not to a car full of shopping. If you carry excess merchandise, see the guide on what you can bring. And during the OPE checks are tightened: expect hours of waiting with a vehicle.
Frequently asked questions
- How long does it take to cross the Tarajal by car? Between 30 minutes and several hours depending on the day and time; check the estimated wait in the app before setting off.
- Can I go with a rental/leased car? Yes, but carry written authorisation from the rental company (in Spanish/French/Arabic if possible) — customs may retain the vehicle without it.
- Is petrol cheaper in Morocco? Yes, generally, but you can only enter with a full tank + 10 litres in a can from Spain.
Official sources
See the current border wait →
Colas Frontera Ceuta — procedures verified with OFESAUTO and Moroccan customs (douane.gov.ma). Updated: 1 September 2026.