🇯🇴 Drive Jordan with Confidence
Know the rules. Carry the right documents. Enjoy the road.
Do You Need an IDP in Jordan?
Yes — An IDP Is Legally Required
Jordanian traffic law requires all foreign drivers to carry a valid International Driving Permit alongside their original license. Police checkpoints are positioned on the Kings Highway, Desert Highway, and near tourist sites. Without an IDP, you face fines and potential vehicle confiscation.
Petra & Dead Sea Route
The drive from Amman to Petra via the Kings Highway is one of the Middle East's great road trips. The route winds through canyons and past Crusader castles. Allow a full day — the road is scenic but slow with many curves and elevation changes.
Driving Rules in Jordan
Drive on the Right
Jordan drives on the right side of the road with left-hand-drive vehicles. Amman traffic can be aggressive with frequent lane changes and heavy congestion. Outside the capital, roads are generally well-maintained.
Desert Highway Driving
The Desert Highway connects Amman to Aqaba (330 km) and is a modern, fast dual carriageway. Watch for strong crosswinds, sand drifts, and camels near the road. Fuel up in Amman or Ma'an — stations are sparse in between.
Summer Heat
Summer temperatures exceed 40°C in the Jordan Valley and desert areas. Carry extra water, check tire pressure (heat increases blowout risk), and ensure air conditioning is working before long drives.
Speed Limits
Urban roads: 40–60 km/h. Highways: 90–110 km/h. Speed cameras are common on the Desert Highway and around Amman. Fines are issued automatically and collected at border exits.
Renting a Car in Jordan
Jordan is compact and easy to explore by car. A rental gives you freedom to visit Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, and Jerash at your own pace.
Required Documents
A valid IDP, your original driver's license, passport, and a credit card for the deposit. Minimum age is 21 at most agencies. Some require at least 1 year of driving experience.
Typical Costs
Compact cars from JOD 20–35/day ($28–50 USD). SUVs from $50–80/day. Full insurance is recommended. Fuel is relatively inexpensive compared to Europe.
Top Rental Companies
Hertz Jordan — Office at Queen Alia Airport. Avis — Reliable fleet with good insurance. Rent-A-Reliable-Car — Popular local agency with competitive rates and Amman delivery.
“We drove the Kings Highway from Amman to Petra, stopping at Dana Nature Reserve along the way. The road is stunning but winding. Our RoadSeal IDP was checked at a checkpoint near Karak Castle. Jordan is perfect for a self-drive adventure.”
Get Your IDP for Jordan — From $29
Delivered digitally in as little as 2 hours. Physical copy shipped worldwide. Valid for 1 year.
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Jordan IDP FAQ
Yes. Jordan requires all foreign drivers to carry a valid International Driving Permit alongside their home license. Police checkpoints are common on the Kings Highway and Desert Highway routes.
No. Rental agencies in Jordan require a valid IDP at the counter. Major providers including Hertz, Avis, and local companies will refuse to release a vehicle without one.
Desert driving in Jordan requires preparation. The route from Amman to Wadi Rum crosses long stretches with no services. Carry extra water, fuel, and a charged phone. Sand can drift across roads and temperatures exceed 45 degrees Celsius in summer.