In Senegal, asphalt roads link the major towns and the coastal region. The network of roads in the interior is rough and may become impassable during the rainy season. It is not advisable to drive at night. There are often police checkpoints at the entrance and exit to villages to enforce speed restrictions; fines are paid on the spot.

Keep in mind that if you wish to drive your own car, there are few street signs (mostly speed limits) and almost all of them are disregarded. Many streets are considered one way, but are never marked as such, and there are almost no stop signs. Heavy traffic areas such as Dakar are best left to experienced drivers and the bold. To get around, one must be willing to dart into traffic, or else, stay stuck at an intersection for a while.

In addition to the large number of vehicles on the road, dealing with aggressive and not always well-trained drivers can test the patience of the calmest person. Patience and perspective are the best ways to deal with the frustration of Dakar's increasingly traffic gridlock. Sitting in an afternoon traffic jam can exacerbate a difficult day at work; however, watching an African sunset setting into the Atlantic Ocean can offer some relief as you inch closer to home.

Driving is on the right side of the road and international road symbols are used. Priority to the right is the governing rule and most intersections are not controlled by traffic lights or police.

A French or International Driving Permit and Green Card are required.