Driving Laws in Jordan - Complete Guide
Current information, rules, and requirements for international drivers
Quick Facts - Jordan
| Driving Side | Right |
|---|---|
| Steering Wheel | Left |
| Speed Units | km/h |
| Minimum Driving Age | 18 |
| Car Rental Age | 21-70 |
| Seat Belt Required | |
|---|---|
| Blood Alcohol Limit | 0.00% |
| IDP Required | Sometimes |
| Toll Roads | |
| Emergency Number | 911 |
Introduction
Driving in Jordan offers an incredible way to explore the country's ancient ruins, desert landscapes, and vibrant cities at your own pace. Traffic moves on the right-hand side of the road, and while major highways are generally in good condition, driving styles can be assertive and unpredictable compared to Western countries. The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD), and you will need cash for many fuel stations and smaller tolls. International tourists frequently rent cars, particularly for journeys to Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea, though driving within the capital Amman can be challenging due to congestion, limited parking, and complex one-way systems. Road signage is typically in both Arabic and English, making navigation feasible for English speakers. Overall, driving in Jordan is reasonably straightforward for experienced drivers who remain alert and patient, especially outside of major urban centers where traffic thins and the scenery becomes breathtaking.Is It Easy to Drive There?
Driving in Jordan is moderately challenging for tourists. While the Desert Highway and Dead Sea roads are well-maintained and relatively easy to navigate, urban driving in Amman is notoriously difficult due to heavy congestion, aggressive driving behaviors, and poorly marked lanes. Road quality varies significantly, with smooth tarmac on major routes but potholed or unpaved surfaces in rural villages and desert tracks. Traffic circles are common and can be chaotic, with drivers often jostling for position. Outside cities, be aware of camels, livestock, and unexpected speed bumps on highways. Night driving carries additional risks due to unlit vehicles and pedestrians. Experienced, confident drivers will manage, but cautious travelers may prefer hiring a car with a driver for Amman city journeys.Driving Side
In Jordan, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the steering wheel is positioned on the left side of the vehicle. This is consistent with most North American and continental European driving systems. Tourists from the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and other left-hand driving countries should take extra care at intersections and traffic circles, as the instinct to look the wrong way can be dangerous. When overtaking, you must pass on the left. Be especially vigilant when pulling out from side roads or fuel stations onto highways, ensuring you are positioned correctly for right-side traffic flow.Speed Limits
| Road Type | Speed Limit | Enforcement Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Urban Areas | 40-60 km/h | Strictly enforced near schools and residential zones; frequent speed humps. |
| Rural/Ring Roads | 80-90 km/h | Police patrols and occasional mobile cameras; watch for sudden speed limit drops near villages. |
| Highways/Motorways | 100-120 km/h | Fixed radar cameras on major highways like the Desert Highway (Highway 15); heavy fines for violations. |
Seat Belt Laws
Seat belt usage is mandatory for all front-seat occupants in Jordan, and this law is actively enforced with on-the-spot fines. While rear seat belt laws exist on paper, enforcement is far less consistent, though it is strongly recommended that all passengers buckle up regardless of seating position due to unpredictable driving conditions. Children under the age of 10 are prohibited from sitting in the front passenger seat. Failure to wear a seat belt can result in a fine of approximately 15 JOD (approximately $21 USD). In the event of an accident, failure to wear a seat belt may also affect insurance claims and liability determinations. Always insist that your passengers, including those in the back, wear their belts for maximum safety.Child Seat Rules
Jordanian traffic law mandates that children under the age of 4 must be secured in an appropriate child restraint system when traveling in a vehicle. While specific height and weight regulations are less detailed than European standards, the law requires that the restraint be suitable for the child's age and size. Children between ages 4 and 10 must use booster seats or appropriate restraints and are not permitted in the front seat under any circumstances. ISOFIX anchorage points are available in most modern rental vehicles, but older cars may require belt-secured child seats. If renting a car, always pre-book child seats well in advance, as availability is limited. Taxis are generally exempt from child seat requirements, though this remains a safety risk.Drink Driving Laws
Jordan enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy on drinking and driving. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.00%, meaning any detectable amount of alcohol in the bloodstream is illegal. This is one of the strictest regulations in the region. Penalties are severe and can include immediate arrest, detention, heavy fines starting from 500 JOD (approximately $705 USD), and imprisonment. For drivers involved in accidents while under the influence, penalties escalate dramatically, including potential prison sentences of several years. Police conduct random breathalyzer tests, particularly at night and near entertainment districts in Amman. If you plan to drink, do not drive under any circumstances. Use taxis or ride-hailing apps, which are inexpensive and widely available.Mobile Phone Rules
Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving is strictly illegal in Jordan. This includes making calls, texting, or browsing social media while the vehicle is in motion. Hands-free systems, including Bluetooth headsets and vehicle-integrated speaker systems, are permitted and recommended for essential calls. Using a mobile phone for GPS navigation is allowed provided the device is mounted in a fixed dashboard or windshield holder and is not being manually operated while driving. Violations result in an on-the-spot fine of approximately 15-20 JOD (approximately $21-28 USD). Police actively enforce this law, and repeat offenses can lead to higher penalties and license endorsement. Pull over safely if you need to handle your phone for any reason.Required Documents
- Valid national driving licence from your home country
- International Driving Permit (IDP) if your licence is not in English or Arabic
- Valid passport with entry stamp
- Rental car agreement (if applicable)
- Vehicle registration document (for owned vehicles)
- Third-party liability insurance certificate (mandatory)
- Passport-sized photographs (useful for temporary Jordanian driving permits)
International Driving Permit (IDP)
An International Driving Permit is required for tourists whose national driving licence is not printed in English or Arabic. Visitors from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and most European Union countries can drive with their home licence for up to three months from the date of entry, provided the licence is in English. However, an IDP is strongly recommended for all foreign drivers as it provides a standardized translation that is recognized by Jordanian police and rental companies. Rental agencies often require an IDP regardless of your licence language. You must obtain the IDP in your home country before traveling to Jordan; it cannot be issued locally. The IDP is valid for one year and must be accompanied by your original driving licence at all times.Road Signs
Jordanian road signs follow international conventions and are typically displayed in both Arabic and English script. Key signs include the red octagonal STOP sign, the inverted red and white triangle YIELD sign, blue rectangular mandatory direction signs, and red circular prohibition signs for NO ENTRY or NO OVERTAKING. Speed limit signs are circular with a red border and black numbers on a white background, indicating limits in km/h. Warning signs, such as those for roundabouts, pedestrian crossings, and camel crossings, are triangular with a red border. A distinctive sign to note is the brown tourist information sign, which directs drivers to archaeological sites, castles, and natural reserves. Road markings include solid and dashed white lines, with double solid lines indicating a strict no-overtaking zone.Toll Roads
Jordan does not have a formal nationwide toll road system in the traditional sense. Most major highways, including the Desert Highway (Highway 15) and the Dead Sea Road (Highway 65), are free to use. The primary exception is the Queen Alia International Airport access road, which requires a nominal entrance or exit fee, typically paid in cash at a barrier gate. The fee is approximately 1-2 JOD (approximately $1.50-3 USD) per vehicle. There are no electronic toll collection systems, transponders, or vignette stickers required for private vehicles. For commercial trucks and buses, certain intercity routes may have weigh station fees. Always carry small denomination bills when traveling to and from the airport to cover this charge smoothly.Fuel Stations
Fuel stations are plentiful along major highways and in cities, with brands such as JoPetrol, Total, and Manaseer dominating the market. Unleaded petrol (gasoline) with octane ratings of 90 and 95 is widely available, as is diesel fuel. Leaded petrol has been phased out completely. LPG and CNG are not commonly available for private vehicles. Electric vehicle charging infrastructure is growing, with charging stations now found at some shopping malls, hotels, and along the Desert Highway, though coverage remains sparse outside Amman. Most fuel stations operate 24 hours a day along highways, while urban stations typically close by midnight. As of mid-2026, the average price for 90-octane petrol is approximately 1.10 JOD per liter (approximately $1.55 USD), and 95-octane is around 1.30 JOD per liter (approximately $1.83 USD). Attendants provide full service; self-service is uncommon.Parking Rules
Parking in Jordan's cities, particularly Amman, can be a significant challenge. There is no formal color-coded zone system on a national scale, but paid parking areas are marked with blue and white signage or have municipal attendants in yellow vests who issue tickets. Paid parking typically costs 0.50 to 1 JOD per hour (approximately $0.70-1.40 USD) in central Amman. Street parking in residential areas is usually free but chaotic. Always park in designated areas, as illegal parking can result in wheel clamping or towing, with release fees of 50-70 JOD (approximately $70-99 USD). Many hotels and shopping malls offer secure underground or valet parking. In downtown Amman, parking garages are available and charge a flat daily rate of around 3-5 JOD (approximately $4-7 USD). Never leave valuables visible in a parked car.Roundabout Rules
Roundabouts, or traffic circles, are extremely common in Jordan, and the rules can be confusing. Vehicles already circulating within the roundabout theoretically have right of way, but in practice, entering drivers often force their way in, creating a merge-on-yield dynamic. Lane discipline within large multi-lane roundabouts is loosely observed; signaling your intended exit is courteous but not universally practiced. The general rule is to enter the roundabout cautiously, signal your intention to exit, and be prepared to yield to aggressive drivers already inside. The famous seven-circle sequence on Zahran Street in Amman requires particular patience. When navigating these, stay in the right lane if taking the first or second exit, and use the inner lane only when confident you can merge out smoothly for later exits.Winter Driving
Winter driving conditions in Jordan can be surprisingly demanding, particularly between December and February. Snowfall occurs regularly in high-altitude areas, including Amman, Petra, and the northern highlands, often leading to temporary road closures. Snow tyres are not legally mandated, but snow chains are advisable when traveling to elevated regions like Ajloun or Shoubak during winter storms. The Desert Highway can experience flash flooding during heavy rains, and black ice is a hazard on mountain roads at night. Authorities may close the King's Highway (Highway 35) in severe weather. If traveling in winter, check weather forecasts, carry warm clothing and water, and ensure your vehicle has functioning heaters and windscreen defrosters. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are highly recommended for desert excursions year-round but are particularly valuable in wet winter conditions.Low Emission Zones
Jordan has not established formal low-emission zones or congestion charging areas as of 2026. While environmental regulations on vehicle emissions exist for registration and import purposes, there are currently no restricted zones that limit entry based on vehicle emissions standards or Euro category classifications. All major cities, including Amman, Irbid, and Zarqa, are freely accessible to all types of private vehicles. The government has announced green mobility initiatives to promote electric vehicles, including reduced registration fees and tax incentives for EV imports, but these are incentives rather than restrictions. As a result, tourists driving in Jordan do not need to register for any environmental permits or display emissions stickers on their vehicles. This situation may evolve as Jordan continues to invest in sustainable urban transport.Traffic Fines
| Violation | Fine (JOD) | Approx. USD |
|---|---|---|
| Speeding (up to 30 km/h over limit) | 20-50 JOD | $28-70 USD |
| Speeding (more than 30 km/h over limit) | 50-100 JOD | $70-141 USD |
| Using mobile phone while driving | 15-20 JOD | $21-28 USD |
| Seat belt violation | 15 JOD | $21 USD |
| Drink driving (any BAC) | 500+ JOD | $705+ USD |
| Running a red light | 50-100 JOD | $70-141 USD |
| Illegal parking | 15-30 JOD | $21-42 USD |
| Reckless driving | 100-200 JOD | $141-282 USD |
Driving Tips for Tourists
- Always carry your passport, driving licence, and rental documents in the vehicle; police checkpoints are common on highways and may request to see them.
- Beware of unmarked speed bumps (speed humps) on highways, particularly when approaching villages and towns; these can be severe and are often poorly signed.
- Camels, goats, and donkeys frequently stray onto rural roads and desert highways; slow down immediately and do not use your horn, as it may startle animals.
- When driving in the desert, especially Wadi Rum, stick to established tracks and consider hiring a local guide; GPS can be unreliable in remote areas.
- Fuel stations can be sparse in southern Jordan; fill your tank in Aqaba, Petra (Wadi Musa), or Ma'an before long desert journeys.
- Do not photograph military installations, police checkpoints, or government buildings, even as a passenger; this is strictly prohibited and can lead to detention.
- Jordanian drivers often use hazard lights to indicate they are slowing down or stopping unexpectedly; learn to recognize this local custom.
- Keep a supply of drinking water, a flashlight, and a basic first-aid kit in the car, especially for trips to the Dead Sea or desert areas.
- Be particularly cautious at night; many vehicles drive without functioning headlights or taillights, and pedestrians often walk on unlit roads.
- Respect the right of way of military convoys and official motorcades; pull over safely and allow them to pass unimpeded.
Renting a Car
Renting a car in Jordan is straightforward, with both international chains (Hertz, Avis, Europcar) and reputable local agencies operating in major cities and at Queen Alia International Airport. The minimum rental age is typically 21, though drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge of around 5-10 JOD per day (approximately $7-14 USD). The maximum rental age is generally 70. A major credit card in the driver's name is required for the security deposit; debit cards are rarely accepted. Basic third-party liability insurance is included, but comprehensive collision damage waiver (CDW) is highly recommended and costs an additional 8-15 JOD per day (approximately $11-21 USD). The standard fuel policy is full-to-full. One-way rentals between Amman and Aqaba are possible but often incur a drop-off fee of around 50-75 JOD (approximately $70-106 USD). Average daily rental rates for an economy car start at 20-30 JOD (approximately $28-42 USD), while a mid-size SUV costs 40-60 JOD (approximately $56-85 USD) per day. Book well in advance during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn) to secure availability and better rates.Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, tourists can drive in Jordan using a valid national driving licence for up to three months from their date of entry. If the licence is not in English or Arabic, an International Driving Permit is mandatory.
An IDP is required if your home licence is not in English or Arabic. However, even if your licence is in English, rental companies and police officers often expect an IDP, so obtaining one before traveling is strongly advised.
Jordan drives on the right-hand side of the road, with the steering wheel positioned on the left side of the vehicle.
The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.00%. Jordan has a strict zero-tolerance policy, and any detectable alcohol in the bloodstream is illegal and carries severe penalties including imprisonment.
Night driving poses significant risks due to unlit vehicles, pedestrians on roads, stray animals, and variable road markings. It is generally advisable to avoid long-distance night driving outside of well-lit urban areas.
Yes, automatic transmission cars are widely available for rent at airports and city locations, though they are typically more expensive than manual options. It is advisable to book an automatic in advance due to limited supply.
Jordan has very few toll roads. The main toll is at the airport access road, which charges a small fee of 1-2 JOD (approximately $1.50-3 USD) payable in cash at the barrier. No electronic tags are needed.
Speeding fines captured by radar cameras are typically processed through the rental company, which will charge the fine to your credit card. For on-the-spot fines, police officers issue an official receipt, and the fine should be paid immediately in Jordanian Dinars.
Parking is available at paid street parking zones monitored by attendants in yellow vests, in private parking garages, and at hotel or shopping mall lots. Illegal parking often results in wheel clamping, with release fees of 50-70 JOD.
If your licence is printed in English and you are staying for less than three months, you can use it alone. However, many rental agencies still request an IDP as a supplement, so bringing one is highly recommended.
All driving-related expenses, including fuel, parking, fines, and tolls, are paid in Jordanian Dinars (JOD). Cash is commonly used at fuel stations and for minor parking fees, though major rental agencies accept credit cards.
A four-wheel-drive vehicle is strongly recommended for desert driving. Stick to established tracks, carry ample water and fuel, and inform someone of your route. GPS can be unreliable in remote areas like Wadi Rum.
In the event of an accident, do not move the vehicle until the police arrive and file a report. Contact your rental company immediately. If anyone is injured, call 911 for an ambulance. A police report is mandatory for insurance claims.
Most rental car companies in Jordan do not permit their vehicles to be taken across international borders. If cross-border travel is planned, you must arrange specific permission and insurance from the rental agency in advance.
Winter tyres are not legally required, but if you are visiting high-altitude areas like Amman, Ajloun, or Petra between December and February, snow chains are advisable as snowfall and icy roads can occur.