For many foreign nationals considering a move to Jordan, one of the first questions that arises is whether they can legally drive in the country using their driver’s license from home. Driving is often essential for daily life, especially for those who plan to live or work in Jordan. While Jordan does permit some flexibility for foreigners regarding driver’s licenses, there are important factors to consider, including license types, the duration of stay, and requirements for conversions or replacements. This article provides a comprehensive overview of whether foreigners can drive in Jordan with their home country’s driver’s license, and if they need to obtain a Jordanian driver’s license to remain compliant with local laws.
Driving in Jordan as a Tourist or Short-Term Visitor
For tourists and short-term visitors, Jordan is quite accommodating regarding foreign driver’s licenses. Foreign nationals visiting Jordan for a short period are allowed to drive with their valid driver’s license from their home country. Additionally, an International Driving Permit (IDP) can be beneficial, especially if the foreign license is not in English or Arabic.
The IDP, issued by the licensing authority in the visitor’s home country, serves as a translation of the home country license and is accepted in most parts of Jordan. Tourists are generally allowed to use their foreign licenses and IDPs for the duration of their stay, as long as it falls within the visitor visa’s timeframe, which is usually 30 to 90 days depending on the country of origin and the type of visa issued.
Requirements for Foreign Residents
For those planning to reside in Jordan longer-term, the rules differ. Once a foreign national obtains residency status, they are expected to either convert their foreign driver’s license to a Jordanian license or obtain a Jordanian license through the standard local application process. Here’s how these requirements typically work for various scenarios:
1. Driver’s License Conversion for Foreign Residents
Foreigners from certain countries may be eligible to directly convert their home country license to a Jordanian driver’s license without taking a local driving test. However, this option is limited to specific nationalities and depends on bilateral agreements between Jordan and the foreign national’s home country.
If a direct conversion is allowed, the foreign resident will need to present their valid driver’s license, residency permit, and complete an application at the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Department in Jordan. Once approved, the foreign driver will receive a Jordanian driver’s license, allowing them to drive in Jordan without restrictions.
2. Obtaining a New Jordanian Driver’s License
For foreign nationals who are not eligible for license conversion, obtaining a new Jordanian driver’s license will be necessary. This process involves several steps similar to those required for Jordanian citizens, including passing a theory test and a practical driving test. The steps to acquire a Jordanian driver’s license are as follows:
- Submit Required Documents: Foreign residents must submit their residency permit, identification, and a health certificate to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Department.
- Complete Theory and Practical Tests: Just like new drivers in Jordan, foreign nationals are required to pass both a written theory test and a practical driving test. The written test is available in Arabic, and English options may be available for non-Arabic speakers.
- Driving Lessons (if required): If a foreign resident fails the practical test, they may be required to take driving lessons before reattempting the test.
- Payment of Fees: Acquiring a Jordanian driver’s license comes with some fees for registration, testing, and issuance. These fees vary but are generally affordable and are paid at the licensing department.
Once a foreign national completes these steps successfully, they are granted a Jordanian driver’s license that is valid throughout the country.
Age and License Restrictions for Foreign Drivers
It’s important to note that Jordan enforces age requirements for drivers. For a private car license, the minimum driving age is 18, while for heavy vehicles or professional licenses, the minimum age may be higher. Foreign drivers are subject to these age restrictions just as Jordanian drivers are, regardless of the age limits in their home country.
Additionally, foreign residents should be aware of Jordan’s strict traffic laws, as well as the need to carry car insurance. Jordan has a point system for traffic violations, and foreign drivers can face fines, license suspensions, or even deportation for repeated serious violations. Adhering to local traffic regulations is crucial to maintain a clean driving record in Jordan.
Driving Requirements for Expats and Foreign Workers
For expats and foreign workers moving to Jordan under employment contracts, it is essential to understand the driving requirements to avoid legal complications. Many companies assist their foreign employees in obtaining a Jordanian driver’s license by helping with paperwork and guiding them through the necessary procedures.
In cases where an expat holds a driver’s license from a country with which Jordan has a conversion agreement, companies may expedite the conversion process to ensure compliance with local laws. For those whose licenses cannot be converted, expats can follow the process to obtain a new Jordanian license or drive with an IDP temporarily until the local license is secured.
Special Circumstances: Students and Long-Term Visitors
International students and long-term visitors in Jordan also have options for driving. In general, students with valid visas who are not permanent residents may be allowed to use their home country’s driver’s license or an IDP for the duration of their studies, provided they do not engage in employment that requires residency status. However, students who decide to stay beyond the period permitted by their visas should explore the process for obtaining a Jordanian driver’s license if they intend to drive regularly.
Benefits of Holding a Jordanian Driver’s License for Foreign Residents
There are multiple benefits to obtaining a Jordanian driver’s license for foreigners who plan to stay in the country long-term:
- Legal Compliance: Driving with a Jordanian license ensures full compliance with local laws and prevents any legal issues that could arise from using a foreign license improperly.
- Insurance Coverage: Many car insurance providers in Jordan may require a Jordanian license for comprehensive coverage, especially for long-term residents.
- Convenience: Having a local driver’s license can simplify vehicle rentals, purchases, and leasing agreements, as most agencies in Jordan prefer local licenses for legal and insurance purposes.
- Avoidance of Potential Fines or Penalties: Foreign residents caught driving with expired IDPs or without proper licensing may face fines or penalties, including the possibility of deportation.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, foreigners visiting Jordan as tourists can generally drive with their home country’s driver’s license or an International Driving Permit without any issues. However, foreign nationals who intend to stay in Jordan longer-term are advised to either convert their driver’s license to a Jordanian one (if eligible) or obtain a new Jordanian driver’s license to avoid legal complications. While the process may vary depending on the foreigner’s nationality, complying with local licensing laws ensures a smoother experience for expatriates, expats, and students alike.
Whether you’re in Jordan for work, study, or residence, understanding and following the country’s driving regulations can help you enjoy your time on Jordanian roads while avoiding potential issues with local authorities.
M. Rami Maki,
Business Consultant