Car Rental in Jordan (2026) - Driving Guide & Best Rates
Rent a car in Jordan and explore ancient wonders and sweeping deserts at your own pace. Find the best deals on reliable vehicles for hassle-free travel across.
Driving Requirements
Foreign visitors may legally drive in Jordan using their national license. An International Driving Permit (IDP), while not a strict legal requirement for many nationalities, is strongly recommended because rental companies will typically require it and police may request it during traffic stops.
The legal minimum age to drive in Jordan is 18. However, rental company policies vary significantly, with many imposing higher minimum ages such as 21, 23, or 25. There is often a surcharge for drivers under a certain age, such as 25.
Third-party liability insurance is a legal requirement and is included in all rental contracts. Rental companies offer additional Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Theft Protection as optional but highly recommended supplements. Note that standard CDW often has a high excess/deductible, which can be reduced by purchasing additional coverage.
A security deposit hold on a major credit card is a standard requirement for all rentals. The amount varies by company and vehicle category. Cash rentals are generally not accepted; a credit card in the primary driver's name is required.
Driving is on the right side of the road. Local driving norms can be assertive. Extra caution is advised at roundabouts and intersections. Right turns on red are generally not permitted unless a specific signal allows it.
Helpful Tips
For airport convenience versus city center savings, consider that rentals at Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) offer immediate vehicle access but may have premium pricing, while downtown Amman offices often have economy rates but require a taxi transfer.
During the pre-drive inspection, thoroughly photograph any existing damage and insist it is noted on the rental agreement. For insurance, a local Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is strongly recommended due to Jordan's unique road conditions, though specific deductibles and coverage vary by rental company.
For navigation, Google Maps works reliably for major highways and cities in Jordan. But always download offline map regions via apps like Maps.me or Google Maps before traveling to remote areas like Wadi Rum or the King's Highway where cellular service is absent.
Most rental cars in Jordan use unleaded 90 or 95 octane fuel ("benzine"); stations are frequent on major routes but sparse in desert regions, and the standard practice is a 'full-to-full' fuel return policy, though some companies may offer a prepaid fuel option.
Parking is generally easy and free in suburban areas and at tourist sites. But can be very challenging in downtown Amman where paid zones exist. For overnight parking, always use secured, well-lit hotel parking or guarded lots, in cities.
Driving Warnings
Turning right on a red light is illegal in Jordan unless a specific green arrow signal permits it, and police enforce this with fines at intersections like those along Queen Rania Al Abdullah Street in Amman.
Expect sudden, severe sandstorms reducing visibility to near zero on open highways like the Desert Highway (Route 15); pulling completely off the road with hazard lights on is the required safety procedure.
Traffic congestion is extreme during evening rush hours (4-7 PM) on key arteries like the 7th Circle area in Amman, where lane discipline often breaks down and aggressive merging is common.
Police frequently operate speed camera traps and random checkpoints on major routes like the Airport Road. You must always carry your physical driver's license, passport, and vehicle registration for inspection.