25 Essential Tips for Driving in Jordan (I Did It!)

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There’s nothing quite like the open road and the freedom driving in Jordan provides. 

I spent 3.5 weeks driving SOLO through Jordan’s diverse landscapes. I discovered hidden gems that most tourists never see—places off the beaten path yet teeming with charm and history. 

My love for travel has led me across 60 countries worldwide, with 12 of those adventures involving renting cars (or motorbikes) and taking control of my own journey. 

Even after such extensive travels, I still feel anxiety when driving in foreign countries. But guess what? That anxiety can be transformed into confidence with adequate preparation.

Most days, driving through Jordan’s sweeping landscapes was a breeze, with surprise speedbumps being the only challenge. However, one unnerving incident still lingers in my memory – falling prey to an unexpected scam in the middle of the desert.

So buckle up as we embark on this journey together! I’ll equip you with essential tips and insights from personal experience to make your Jordanian road trip successful and enjoyable. You’re in good hands; let’s hit the road!

👉 I love how easy it is to compare the major car rental companies to find the best price with this tool.

1. Should You Drive in Jordan?

Driving in Jordan is predominantly safe, convenient, and cost-effective.

Yet, if your plans involve going directly from Amman to the Dead Sea or Petra and back or prefer guided tours over self-driving, exploring Jordan’s hotspots without a car is also entirely feasible.

• Pros of driving in Jordan: Limited public transportation available, allows you the freedom to go anywhere at your own pace, can go off-the-beaten path, affordable

• Cons of driving in Jordan: Sometimes stressful, expensive for budget travelers, unnecessary for tourist hotspots like Petra

The highways are well-maintained, offering smooth rides through some of the most breathtaking landscapes you’ll ever witness – think vast desert plains and historic sites that seem to leap straight from the pages of ancient folklore.

However, be prepared for the occasional speedbump or pesky pothole, and be cautious around all the big trucks that like to change lanes unexpectedly on the highways.

I held my breath while driving in Amman – it’s a different beast altogether. The capital city’s heavy traffic and local drivers’ aggressive approach to road rules make for a challenging experience if you’re not used to it. So unless you have nerves of steel and quick reflexes or find yourself craving a dash of adrenaline, don’t drive in Amman.

🇯🇴 Check out this 5-star-rated, 7-night Jordan tour. It includes all the highlights: Amman, Jerash, the Dead Sea, Petra, Wadi Rum, and Aqaba. Enjoy a perfectly curated experience that lets you soak in Jordan’s beauty without the stress. 🐫

2. Minimum Qualifications to Drive in Jordan

• The legal driving age in Jordan is 18, but you must be 25 to rent a car. Some car rental companies may allow you to rent a car if you are younger than 25, but you will likely have to pay an extra fee.
  
• Valid driver’s license held for at least 1 year.
  
• Valid passport.
  
• A valid International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally required (obtained from your home country), but the rental car company won’t ask for it.
  
• Most car rental companies require a credit card.

How to Get an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) 

Travelers can get an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) by applying for one in their home country. 

The US application process includes filling out a form and submitting it — in person or via mail — along with two identical two-inch by two-inch, passport-sized photos, a copy of the traveler’s valid U.S. driver’s license, and a fee of $20.

The traveler can download the application from AAA or pick one up at a AAA branch office and bring it to their nearest AAA branch office.

🚙 I recommend using Discover Cars to compare costs and get the best deal.

3. Best Place to Rent a Car in Jordan

You’ll find the best prices if renting your Jordan car at the Queen Alia Airport (AMM) in Amman or the Aqaba Airport (AQJ). 

Since I arrived in Jordan via the Israel-Jordan land border near Aqaba, I rented a car in Aqaba and paid a little extra to drop it off in Amman. A lot of travelers plan their Jordan itinerary this way to save time.

Use an aggregator site like DiscoverCars to quickly compare costs and reserve your Jordan car rental.

Book in advance, especially if renting a car in Jordan from March to May or September to November.

Always double-check the rental company’s reviews on Google before booking.

Jordan’s Top-Rated Car Rental Companies (You Can Filter on DiscoverCars):

• Alanan Rental Cars
• Arabesque Rent a Car
• AutoNation Car Rental
• Direct Rent A Car
• Discount Rent A Car
• Enterprise
• Fun Way Rental Car
• Green Motion 
• Gulf Car Rental
• Hamdi Rent A Car
• Hertz
• Highway
• Monte Carlo Rent A Car
• Rama Car Rental
• Reliable Rent A Car
• Rozana Car Rental
• Sixt
• Thrifty

How Much Driving in Jordan Costs

Jordan rental car prices usually range from $20-40 USD per day, and it’s easy to compare rental car costs with Discover Cars. 

The cost to rent a car in Jordan will depend on where you pick up and drop off, what kind of car you get, and what insurance coverage you add.

4. Driving in Amman (Rental Car Pick-up/Drop-Off)

Driving in Amman is very stressful and challenging.

For starters, traffic in the city is often congested, making it difficult to get around quickly. Additionally, drivers in the city tend to drive aggressively and recklessly, making navigating the roads a nerve-racking experience.

Since I planned to spend a few days in Amman, I dropped off my rental when I arrived and used Uber to get around town and to the airport. It was so much less stressful than attempting to drive in Amman.

Picking up your car in one city and dropping it off in another is also possible if you want to save time and fly in or out of the Aqaba Airport instead of driving back to Amman. I started my Jordan trip in Aqaba and finished in Amman.

👉 My Top Picks for Accommodations in Amman: Carob Hostel (budget), Nu Fifty Two (mid-range), or Amman International Hotel (luxury)

5. Check Car for Damages Before You Go

Always thoroughly inspect your car for any existing damage. 

My go-to method is to capture a video while walking around the vehicle, ensuring every dent, scratch, or imperfection is documented and acknowledged on my rental agreement. This simple action has saved me from unjust charges. 

Another snapshot I always take is of the fuel gauge so I know how much to refill the tank before returning the car (if returning a full tank isn’t required).

Check if there’s a spare tire, too. I learned many rental cars no longer have a spare when driving in Scotland.

⛑️ My number one safety tip for travelers, no matter where you’re going or how long your trip is, is to buy SafetyWing insurance to protect your trip.

6. Jordan Rental Car Insurance

• Third-Party Liability Insurance is compulsory by law in Jordan – this usually comes standard with your car rental and covers damages to third parties in case of an accident. It does not cover damages to your rental car.

• Extra coverage covering damages to your rental car is always a good idea because you never know what will happen! I scratched my rental car when I was driving in the Balkans.

• Many credit cards automatically offer extra insurance coverage when you pay for your rental on the card, so check with your card company to know what’s covered. This often saves me money.

👉 My pick for the best small group tour to Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea is this 2-day small group tour with a guide, with over 800 5-star reviews! You’ll see Jordan’s top sights in 2 days, including a night in a Bedouin tent in the desert!

7. Prepare for Emergencies

Before driving in Jordan, you must be well-prepared for any surprises. 

Start by snagging a local SIM card – this is one of the first things I do when I arrive in a new country.

The emergency number in Jordan is 911, the same as back home in the US! 

You should save the car rental company’s number on your phone.

When I rented a car in Jordan, I asked for the rental car agent’s cell phone number in case of an emergency, and he happily provided it to me. This made me feel better, as I was doing this Jordan road trip solo and knew I had at least one person to call if something went wrong.

What to do if You’re in a Car Accident While Driving in Jordan

• Call the police (911) immediately to report the accident.
  
• Seek medical help immediately if necessary by calling an ambulance (911).
  
• Take down the other driver’s license and license plate information and pictures of damage (or lack thereof) on both cars.
  
• Call your rental car company immediately to report the accident and confirm their policies and process. I skipped this step once while driving in Albania, resulting in paying out of pocket for the damage – learn from my mistake!

👉 This popular 5-star overnight tour from Amman makes exploring Petra and the Wadi Rum desert easy. Travelers give the guides rave reviews!

8. Automatic vs Manual

My fellow Americans will be pleased to know that most rental cars in Jordan are automatics. 

This was a relief because I never learned how to drive a manual car – a constant worry whenever I rent a vehicle. 

However, if you have the knack for it and prefer an engaging drive, you can find manual cars available, too, although they come at a slightly higher price point. 

Stick shift isn’t necessary in Jordan – the automatic vehicles on offer can handle the country’s varied terrains and traffic conditions.

🐴 I loved this horseback riding tour of the High Place of Sacrifice in Petra – it was a fun way to spend my second morning in Petra.

9. Drive on the Right Side, Wear a Seatbelt, Use Headlights

• In Jordan, driving is done on the right side of the road. 
  
• Passengers in the front seat must wear seatbelts (although many Jordan drivers don’t). 
  
• Headlights must be used at night and when there is low visibility, like when it’s raining.

Highways and other two-lane roads follow a straightforward system: the right lane is predominantly used for regular driving, while the left lane is generally reserved for passing. 

However, it’s important to note that Jordan drivers don’t always stay in their lane. Remain vigilant and maintain focus on your surroundings. 
Pass slower vehicles and large trucks with caution. Prepare yourself to be overtaken frequently – it’s a common occurrence here.

🚙 I recommend using Discover Cars to compare costs and get the best deal.

10. Jordan Speed Limits 

Speed limits in Jordan vary from urban areas 50-60kph (30-35 mph) to rural areas 80-90kph (50-55 mph) and highways 100-120kph (65-75 mph) in Jordan.

It’s essential to pay attention to speed limits while driving, as the police and police cameras strictly enforce them. And you never know when a speed bump or pothole will surprise you.

To stay safe while driving in Jordan, stick to the posted speed limit and take it slow on unfamiliar roads.

👉 Book this top-rated sunset Jeep tour to explore the gorgeous natural rock formations and bridges of Wadi Rum and learn the history of the Bedouins who live there.

11. Watch Out for Potholes and Speedbumps

Even though Jordan’s roads are generally in good condition, the occasional pothole or speed bump might catch you off guard. 

I unintentionally hit these unexpected road obstacles harder than I would have liked due to their sudden appearance (and maybe I was going a few miles over the speed limit). 

When you notice the car in front of you slowing down, it often indicates an upcoming speed bump.

12. Use GPS & Download Offline Maps

Google Maps worked well for driving in Jordan, but I recommend downloading offline maps just in case. 

Google Maps will continue navigating without cell service if you start the navigation before you lose service or with offline maps.

Local SIM cards are cheap and keep you connected – but I lost connection a few times in the desert.

There were a couple of times when the Google route could have been more direct, so always pay attention to road signs (usually in Arabic and English) and ask locals when you need help.

I got lost on the way to Petra, thanks to Google taking me on a weird route. Thankfully, a local guy was kind enough to help me back to the main highway (just one example of how welcoming and kind the people of Jordan are).

Popular Jordan Routes With Distances

• Amman to Jerash: 1 hour / 52 km
  
• Jerash to Ajloun: 30 min / 18 km
  
• Amman to Dead Sea: 1 hour / 54 km
  
• Petra to Wadi Rum: 2.5 hours / 112 km
  
• Aqaba to Petra: 2.5 hours / 130 km
  
• Amman to Petra: 3.5 hours / 230 km
  
• Madaba to Wadi Mujib: 1 hour / 60 km
  
• Amman to Wadi Mujib: 1 hour / 82 km
  
• Amman to Queen Alia International Airport: 30 minutes / 36km

Speeds and distances in Jordan are all in the metric system. This takes some getting used to for Americans, but after a little while, you’ll adjust.

13. Always Allocate Additional Travel Time

Driving in Jordan, I quickly learned the importance of factoring in extra time for every trip. Whatever Google’s estimated time might suggest, adding 30-60 minutes to your planned travel duration is wise. 

The reality was that journeys consistently took longer than initially anticipated. Unforeseen circumstances can easily extend your travel schedule, whether due to unexpected traffic congestion, getting lost, or an unplanned detour. 

When planning your route and considering arrival times, include this buffer. This will keep stress levels low and allow you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking journey through Jordan’s picturesque landscapes without feeling rushed.

💧 Thirsty? Always have clean drinking water on hand and save money with this reusable water bottle! It works great, turning tap water into safe-to-drink water that tastes good.

14. Police & Military Checkpoints

Jordan driving means you’ll likely encounter several police and military checkpoints.

While these can be intimidating, they are standard in the region and nothing to worry about.

The officers usually ask for your passport and may look into your trunk, but otherwise, it is a quick process with no major hassles.

15. Drive the King’s Highway

Jordan has 3 Main Highways: Desert Highway, King’s Highway, Dead Sea Highway – and you’ll probably drive on all of them.

The legendary King’s Highway in Jordan passes through some of the oldest and most incredible sites in the Middle East; from Wadi Musa to Shobak Castle and Dana Nature Reserve, you can take in all the beauty and history that makes this part of the world so extraordinary.

The King’s Highway is a great way to explore all Jordan has to offer – the country’s varied landscapes, culture, history, and even its friendly people.

👉 One of my favorite nights in Jordan was at the famous Memories Aicha Luxury Resort in Wadi Rum. I didn’t book far enough in advance for the famous bubble tents, but the luxury tent was worth the splurge!

16. Watch Out for Camels

When driving in Jordan, it’s not just the other Jordan drivers you need to be aware of – camels and other livestock can unexpectedly cross your path – I loved this about my Jordan road trip! 

Come on, it doesn’t get any more authentic than CAMELS!

It’s also important to watch for pedestrians who may be jaywalking or walking on the highway. This is especially true in rural areas, as people may not look both ways before crossing the street.

17. Avoid Driving at Night

Camels are just one of the reasons to avoid driving in Jordan at night.

Driving at night in Jordan can be challenging, as many roads are not well-lit. Potholes and speed bumps are difficult to spot in the dark, making it more likely that you’ll end up with a flat tire or worse.

If you’re planning on driving in Jordan, it’s best to plan to arrive at your destination before sunset. Enjoy Jordan’s beautiful landscape without worrying about navigating dark roads.

I always follow this rule when traveling, especially when I’m solo.

18. Parking in Jordan

Parking in Jordan is generally easy, with parking available at most accommodations and attractions. 

My Airbnb in Amman, for example, had a parking garage right beneath my building. You’ll also find ample parking in Petra and many other towns nationwide.

If you’re driving around Jordan, it’s best to familiarize yourself with where you can park before you set off. This is especially important in urban areas, as certain designated parking spots or fees may be associated with leaving your car overnight.

19. Getting Gas in Jordan

There are a lot of gas stations on the highways in Jordan, so finding fueling up should always be easy. 

I recommend never going below a quarter tank of gas during your Jordan road trip, and on days when you’ll be more off the beaten path, stay above a third of a tank to be safe.

In many countries, travelers pump their own gas at stations; however, in Jordan, gas attendants pump it for you.

Pull up to an attendant, roll down your window, turn off the car, and hand them your cash or credit card. Tell them how much fuel you want to purchase (I always say “full”).

If you use a credit card, the attendant may ask you to go inside and pay at the counter. 

There is no need to tip the attendant, as this service is included with the cost of the gas. 

Once the attendant is done pumping, you can continue your road trip.

20. Don’t Rely on Public Bathrooms

While some rest stops and bathroom facilities exist in larger towns and cities, you may need help finding them in more rural areas.

You may come across some “squat” toilets in less-touristy areas. 

It’s best to carry wet wipes or toilet paper for emergencies.

21. Don’t Drive in Wadi Rum

Driving in the Wadi Rum Desert is not a good idea. Chances are, unless you have a car built explicitly for off-roading in the sand and are an experienced desert driver, you’ll get stuck.

Instead, leave your car in the parking lot outside of town and arrange for your accommodation to pick you up from there.

Pick-up and drop-off at the parking lot in the town outside Wadi Rum is often included with lodging at Wadi Rum camps like Memories Aicha Luxury Camp, where I stayed, which offers jeeps and trucks that are built to handle the sand of the desert.

👉 My Top Picks for Accommodations in Wadi Rum: Magic Milky Way Camp (budget), Wadi Rum Star Wars Camp (mid-range), or Memories Aicha (luxury)

22. Jordan Roadtrip Essentials

Be sure to include these items on your Jordan road trip packing list.

• Charging cable for your phone – most cars have a plug to charge your phone with your USB cable, and if you’re navigating, you’ll need the juice!
  
• A phone holder (this wireless charging one is perfect for road trips)
  
• Water – you’re driving through the desert, and if you experience car trouble, you’ll need water
  
• Snacks – all good road trips need snacks
  
• Toilet paper or wet wipes
  
• Passport and driver’s license handy for checkpoints
  
• And don’t forget to download some good tunes and podcasts for the long drives!

23. Be Aware of Scams (I was a Victim of a Scam in Jordan)

Unfortunately, I was the victim of a scam in Jordan, and I don’t want that to happen to you.

Driving in Jordan is generally safe, so don’t let my story you! Long story short, a local told me my tire was flat (it wasn’t), changed it for me, and asked for money. I was alone in the middle of nowhere and paid him about $10 USD before driving off.

One common scam is a gas station trying to upcharge you by not resetting the pump to zero before filling your tank.

Another is taxi drivers attempting to overcharge you or claiming their meter is broken. This one happens regularly all around the world.

Some people try to charge an extra fee for taking you to Wadi Rum or bringing you to a fake Wadi Rum.

To avoid these common scams, it’s best to stick with reputable gas stations and tour companies, negotiate prices with taxi drivers before getting in the cab, use Uber in Amman, and pay attention when filling up at gas stations. 

And note that Jordan has no toll roads (so don’t pay for one)!

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25. Plan, But Leave Room for Spontaneity

Driving in Jordan means you can explore at your own pace – so while having a plan is smart (especially during peak season), you should be flexible, too. 

Local families invited me not once but twice to celebrate the end of Ramadan with them – an authentic cultural experience that was nowhere on my original agenda! These impromptu invitations were some of the most memorable parts of my trip.

On another day, I spontaneously added canyoning in Wadi Mujib to my itinerary. This last-minute addition became one of the highlights of my journey.

Getting Around Jordan Without a Car

Getting around Jordan is a little trickier without a car, but it is still doable for some major tourist attractions. 

There are three good options to get around Jordan without a car: take an organized tour, hire a private driver, or take a bus.

Jett bus has some good routes to the tourist hot spots, such as between Petra and Wadi Rum. But there is no direct bus between Amman and Wadi Rum.

Hitchhiking is common in Jordan; many locals do it to get around. I’ve never hitchhiked, but I have picked up a hitchhiker in Jordan (a story for another day).

Best Tours from Amman

• 2 Day Tour of Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea
• 3-Day Private Tour from Amman: Petra, Wadi Rum, Dana, Aqaba, and Dead Sea
• Private Petra Day Trip Including Little Petra from Amman
• Amman Petra Full-Day Trip

Driving in Jordan FAQs

Final Thoughts: Driving Jordan

Navigating the roads of an unfamiliar country can seem daunting, and Jordan is no exception. 

Remember to book your rental car in advance during peak season, and arm yourself with an International Driving Permit – better safe than sorry! 

And for all the women out there, don’t let old stereotypes dissuade you; Jordanian roads are just as welcoming for you as they are for anyone else. 

I spent 3.5 weeks exploring Jordan in my rental car – from Petra’s majestic ruins to the otherworldly landscapes of Wadi Rum and the ruins of Jerash – at my own pace, behind the wheel. 

Jordan is a country that beckons exploration beyond what any tour bus can offer. A car gives you that freedom – the ability to pause time in places that captivate your heart and race through those that don’t.

Grab your road trip snacks, remember these tips, and start your engine! Your Jordanian road trip awaits, and trust me, it will be one for the books!

Now that you are ready for the road, it’s time to start planning your Jordan itinerary – there’s SO MUCH to see and do!