Do You Need an IDP to Drive in Jordan?
Yes, an International Driving Permit is required to drive legally in Jordan if you're a foreign national. Your IDP for Jordan works alongside your original driver's license from your home country, serving as an official translation and verification of your driving credentials. Jordanian authorities recognize the IDP as proof that you're licensed to operate a vehicle, and rental agencies will require it before handing over keys.
Both digital and physical IDPs are accepted in Jordan. You can choose a digital IDP for instant access, or opt for a physical card delivered by FedEx. Either way, you're fully compliant with local regulations and ready to explore world-class driving destinations like the winding roads to Petra or the scenic routes around Amman.
How to Get Your IDP for Jordan
Getting your International Driving Permit for Jordan is straightforward. Our online process takes just minutes, and you'll have your permit ready to go before your trip. Here's how it works:
- Apply online: Fill out the form at our application page with your basic information
- Upload documents: Provide a scanned copy of your driver's license, passport photo, and signature
- Choose your plan: Select digital ($39) for instant delivery or physical ($69) for FedEx delivery within 3-5 business days
- Receive your IDP: Digital permits arrive instantly via email, physical permits ship to your address
That's all there is to it. Your IDP for Jordan is valid for three years, giving you plenty of time to explore the kingdom and plan return trips.
Driving Rules in Jordan
The Basics
In Jordan, traffic drives on the RIGHT side of the road. Speed limits vary by road type: city limits are typically 40-50 km/h, highways allow 100-120 km/h, and rural roads range from 80-100 km/h. The legal blood alcohol limit is zero, so driving under the influence is strictly prohibited. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, front and back. Mobile phone use while driving is illegal unless you're using a hands-free device. Headlights must be on at all times, even during the day.
What to Carry
- Your IDP for Jordan — required alongside your original license at all times
- Original driver's license from your home country
- Passport for identification and border crossings
- Vehicle registration and proof of ownership if driving your own car, or rental documentation if leasing
- Insurance documents showing comprehensive coverage valid in Jordan
- Emergency contact information and copies of important documents
Always keep these documents in your vehicle during operation. Police checkpoints are common on major routes, especially near Amman and approaching tourist areas like Petra.
Renting a Car in Jordan
Major international and local car rental agencies operate throughout Jordan, with offices in Amman's airports and city center. Popular companies include Hertz, Europcar, Budget, and local operators like Europcar Middle East. Most require renters to be at least 21 years old, though some companies set minimums at 25. You'll need a valid driver's license from your home country, your International Driving Permit for Jordan, passport, and a credit card for the deposit.
Rental rates are competitive, typically ranging from $25-60 per day for economy vehicles depending on season and advance booking. Insurance is strongly recommended, though often included in package deals. When you pick up your vehicle, present both your original license and your IDP for Jordan to ensure smooth documentation. Always inspect the car for existing damage, photograph the condition, and confirm rental terms before driving away.
For competitive rates and flexible options, we recommend comparing prices through international booking platforms. Having your IDP for Jordan ready at pickup speeds up the process and demonstrates your preparedness to rental staff.
Best Places to Drive in Jordan
Jordan offers some of the Middle East's most spectacular driving routes. From the bustling capital to ancient desert wonders, every road tells a story. Here are the top driving destinations:
- Amman to Petra (240 km): The classic Jordanian road trip. This 3-4 hour drive takes you from the modern capital through olive groves, past biblical sites, and into the rose-red deserts of southern Jordan. The final approach to Petra is breathtaking, with narrow canyons and ancient Nabatean architecture revealing themselves around each curve. Roads are well-maintained, though the final stretch becomes more winding.
- Dead Sea Scenic Drive: From Amman, the descent to the Dead Sea (the world's lowest point) is a memorable 50 km journey. Roads wind steeply downward with panoramic views of the Jordan Valley. The Dead Sea Highway offers stunning vistas and access to thermal springs and beach resorts. This route is safe and popular with tourists.
- Desert Highway (Amman to Aqaba): This 330 km route is one of the region's best-maintained highways. Divided lanes, clear markings, and minimal traffic make for comfortable high-speed driving through dramatic desert landscapes. Aqaba, Jordan's Red Sea port city, offers beaches, water sports, and access to Sinai. The drive takes about 4 hours.
- Jerash Loop: Just 50 km north of Amman, Jerash features some of the world's best-preserved Roman ruins. The 45-minute drive from the capital is easy and scenic, passing through green hills and farmland. Roads are smooth, and the route is straightforward for GPS navigation.
Safety Tips for Driving in Jordan
- Expect aggressive driving and traffic: Amman's traffic is notoriously chaotic, with drivers changing lanes without warning and ignoring lane markings. Stay alert, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and avoid rush hours (7-9 AM, 1-3 PM, 5-7 PM) if possible. Outside the capital, traffic is calmer and more predictable.
- Watch for livestock and pedestrians: In rural and desert areas, sheep, goats, and camels frequently cross roads with little warning. Reduce speed in rural regions and be extra cautious at dawn and dusk when visibility is low. Pedestrians may also step onto highways unexpectedly.
- Navigation can be tricky: GPS is essential in Jordan, especially near Amman where street signs are minimal and roads wind unpredictably. Download offline maps before your trip, as cell service may be spotty in desert regions. Carry a physical map as backup.
- Fill up fuel regularly: Gas stations are reliable in cities and along major highways, but spacing increases in remote areas like Wadi Rum or near Petra. Never let your tank drop below half-full when venturing into deserts or toward the borders.
- Respect checkpoints and authorities: Police perform random checks, especially on highways and near sensitive areas. Always produce your IDP for Jordan along with your original license and passport. Police are generally professional and courteous when drivers cooperate.
Emergency in Jordan? Call 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies. You can also contact your embassy or consulate for serious situations. Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone before driving.
Currency and Practical Information
Jordan's currency is the Jordanian Dinar, or JOD. One dinar equals approximately 1.40 USD. Major credit cards are accepted at rental agencies, hotels, and gas stations in cities, though rural areas may require cash. ATMs are abundant in Amman and tourist areas. Petrol prices are subsidized and affordable compared to neighboring countries, averaging 0.35-0.40 JOD per liter depending on fuel grade.
The official language is Arabic, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and rental agencies. Road signs in cities are often bilingual, but highway signs may be Arabic-only. GPS with spoken directions in English is invaluable. Jordanians drive with their lights on and expect other drivers to do the same, so this is non-negotiable.
Get Your IDP for Jordan Today
Your International Driving Permit for Jordan is just a few clicks away. Whether you're planning a week exploring Petra, a quick desert adventure, or a full road trip across the kingdom, we've got you covered. Choose your digital permit ($39 for instant delivery) or physical permit ($69 with FedEx shipping) and start your Jordanian driving adventure with complete peace of mind.
Don't let missing documents slow you down. Your IDP for Jordan is recognized by all rental agencies and authorities, ensuring smooth interactions at checkpoints and rental counters. Apply now and receive your permit in minutes or days, not weeks.
Apply for Your IDP for Jordan Today — Starting at $39 →
Questions about driving in other countries? Check out our complete country driving guides for more international travel tips and IDP information.