Jordan Requires a Triangle, Not a Vest, for 2026 Cars

Jordan’s mandatory kit list runs to a warning triangle, fire extinguisher and first-aid box, but stops short of requiring a reflective vest or spare bulbs. The blood-alcohol limit is 0.08%, and the motorway speed cap tops out at 110 km/h, dropping to 40 km/h in towns. Drivers need to be at least 18.

Speed limits are 40 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 110 km/h on motorways. The blood alcohol limit is 0.08% BAC. You must be at least 18 to drive.

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Emergency Numbers in Jordan

General Emergency: 911 | Police: 911 | Ambulance: 911 | Fire: 911

Save these numbers before you start driving. In Jordan, emergency calls are free from any phone.

Speed Limits in Jordan

The default speed limits for passenger cars in Jordan are 40 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 110 km/h on motorways.

Trucks and vehicles over 3.5 tonnes have lower limits: 40 km/h urban, 70 km/h rural, and 90 km/h on motorways.

For comparison, motorway limits in nearby countries: Saudi Arabia (120 km/h), Iraq (120 km/h).

Important: Posted signs always override default limits. Watch for temporary restrictions in construction zones, near schools, and in residential areas.

Speeding Fines and Penalties

Speeding fines in Jordan vary based on how much you exceed the posted limit. Fines increase sharply for higher violations and may include licence points or driving bans for serious offences.

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Drive on the right side of the road. Overtake on the left. At roundabouts, enter counter-clockwise and yield to traffic already circulating.

Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Children must use appropriate restraint systems based on their age and height.

Using a hand-held phone while driving is prohibited. Hands-free systems are permitted.

Use headlights in poor visibility, tunnels, and at night. Some areas require headlights at all times.

At unmarked intersections, traffic from the right generally has priority unless signs indicate otherwise.

Drink-Driving Laws and Alcohol Limits

The legal blood alcohol limit in Jordan is 0.08% BAC. This is higher than Israel (0.05% BAC). Exceeding this limit results in fines, licence suspension, and possible criminal charges. For novice drivers and professional drivers, stricter limits may apply.

The safest approach is to not drink at all if you will be driving. Alcohol affects reaction time and judgement regardless of the legal limit.

Tyre Requirements and Regulations

Winter tyres are not required in Jordan. Standard tyres are sufficient for normal driving conditions.

The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm.

Studded tyres: restricted.

For detailed tyre law information, see our Tyre Laws in Jordan guide.

Mandatory Vehicle Equipment

Vehicles in Jordan must carry the following:

Required:

• Warning triangle
• First aid kit
• Fire extinguisher

Keep all equipment accessible — not buried under luggage. Police may check during routine stops.

Driving License Requirements

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for foreign drivers in Jordan. Always carry your original driving licence — photocopies are not accepted. Your foreign licence is valid for up to 3 months.

The minimum driving age is 18 years.

Foreign licence valid for tourists. IDP recommended.

Parking and Fuel

Parking in major cities can be limited and expensive. Shopping centres and commercial areas usually have dedicated car parks. Read signs carefully to avoid towing.

We do not hold a verified, dated fuel price for Jordan, so check a local price app or the board at the station before you budget.

Most fuel stations accept major credit and debit cards. In rural areas, keep your tank above half — stations may be far apart.

Seasonal Driving Conditions

Jordan has arid to semi-arid conditions. Extreme heat can affect both driver and vehicle — carry water, monitor tyre pressure (heat increases pressure), and watch for sand or dust on road surfaces.

Night driving in desert areas requires extra caution due to limited lighting and potential wildlife crossings.

Useful Driving Phrases in Arabic

Knowing a few phrases in Arabic helps at fuel stations, toll booths, and during police checks:

Download the Arabic language pack in your translation app for offline use.

Practical Driving Tips for Jordan

• Download offline maps of Jordan before your trip — mobile signal can be unreliable on rural roads.
• Take a break every 2 hours on long drives. Fatigue is a leading cause of road accidents.
• Use our interactive tools on this page — compare rules with your home country and calculate potential fines before you set off.