Get your International Driving Permit for Jordan in 8 minutes

Planning an international trip and thinking of driving? If you hold a Jordanian driver's license (رخصة القيادة الأردنية), an International Driving Permit (IDP) is an essential travel document that can make your journey smoother and legally compliant in many countries. This guide is designed for Jordanian citizens and expatriates in Jordan who are looking to navigate foreign roads with confidence.

Whether you're renting a car for a holiday or driving your own vehicle across borders, understanding the IDP – often referred to in Arabic as رخصة القيادة الدولية (rukhṣat al-qiyādah ad-dawliyah) or تصريح القيادة الدولي (taṣrīḥ al-qiyādah ad-dawlī) – is crucial.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is an official document, sanctioned under United Nations agreements, that serves as a standardized translation of your valid Jordanian national driving license. It's recognized in over 150 countries and allows you to drive a private motor vehicle in any jurisdiction that accepts the document.

Key Functions of an IDP:

• Translation: It translates your license details into multiple languages (including English, French, Spanish, Russian), helping local authorities in foreign countries understand your driving credentials. This is particularly important if your Jordanian license is primarily in Arabic.
• Certification: The IDP certifies that you hold a valid driving license in Jordan, issued by the competent authorities.
• Vehicle Categories: It clearly indicates the types of vehicles you are permitted to drive, mirroring your Jordanian license.

Important Note: An IDP is not a standalone license. It must always be carried and presented alongside your original, valid Jordanian driving license. It is also not valid for driving within Jordan itself.

Jordan is a signatory to the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic, which forms the basis for the IDPs it issues.

While your Jordanian license is valid in Jordan, its acceptance abroad can vary. Here’s why an IDP is highly recommended, and often mandatory:

• Overcoming Language Barriers: Your Jordanian license is primarily in Arabic. An IDP provides an official translation, making it easier for foreign police or car rental agencies to verify your details.
• Legal Requirement: Many countries legally require foreign drivers to have an IDP in addition to their national license, especially if the national license is not in English or a commonly understood language in that country. Driving without one where it's required can lead to fines or other penalties.
• Car Rentals: Most car rental companies worldwide require an IDP to rent a vehicle, particularly if your license is not in the Roman alphabet.

Road Safety & Verification: It helps authorities quickly verify that you are a legitimately licensed driver, contributing to overall road safety.

If you hold a valid Jordanian driving license, you can apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive legally in many foreign countries. There are local offline options as well as online alternatives available depending on your travel situation.

A. Local Provider in Jordan: Royal Automobile Club of Jordan (RACJ)

(مزود محلي: النادي الملكي للسيارات الأردن)

The Royal Automobile Club of Jordan (RACJ) is a well-known local provider of IDPs for Jordanian citizens and residents. Applications can be submitted in person at their Amman office.

📍 Address:
26 Princess Tharwat Street, P.O. Box 920, 11118 Amman, Jordan
📞 Phone: +962-6-5850626 Ext. 336
✉️ Email: dtcm@racj.com
🌐 Website: www.racj.com

🛵 Some delivery options may be available via Aramex, with potential IDP delivery in approximately 3 business days.

B. Eligibility (الأهلية)

• Must hold a valid Jordanian national driving license
• Must be at least 18 years old

C. Required Documents (المستندات المطلوبة)

To apply through RACJ, prepare the following:

• Valid Jordanian driving license
• Completed application form (in English; name must match your passport)
• One recent passport-sized photo
• Application fee based on RACJ membership status

D. IDP Fees in Jordan (رسوم رخصة القيادة الدولية في الأردن)

Applicant TypeFee (JOD)

• Non-RACJ Members20 JD
• RACJ Members15 JD

E. Processing Time

• Applications are usually processed at RACJ’s office
• IDPs may be ready within a few business days
• Delivery via Aramex is sometimes available—confirm with RACJ for current options

F. Online Alternative: International Drivers Association (IDA)

If you're already abroad, in a hurry, or prefer digital convenience, the International Drivers Association (IDA) offers a fast and globally accessible online IDP application:

• Based on the 1949 Geneva Convention, valid in 150+ countries
• Works as a translation of your Jordanian license in multiple languages
• Application takes just 8–20 minutes
• Choose digital delivery, printed booklet, or both—shipped worldwide

Understanding the validity and conditions of use for your IDP is crucial:

• Validity Period (صلاحية رخصة القيادة الدولية الأردن):
  • An IDP issued by the RACJ, under the 1949 Geneva Convention, is valid for a maximum of one year from its date of issue.
  • Crucially, if your Jordanian national driving license expires before the IDP's one-year term, the IDP also becomes invalid at that point. Always ensure your national license is valid for your entire trip.
• Conditions of Use:
  • The IDP is not valid for driving within Jordan. You must use your Jordanian license for driving domestically.

Requirements can vary significantly from one country to another. Always research the specific rules for your destination before you travel.

General Advice for International Driving:

• Carry Documents: Always have your valid Jordanian license, IDP, passport, and car rental/insurance documents.
• Research Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws, speed limits, road signs, and driving customs (e.g., driving on the left or right).
• Insurance: Ensure you have adequate international car insurance (see section below).

Here’s a look at some popular destinations for Jordanian travelers:

• United States of America (USA) (القيادة في أمريكا):
  • Most U.S. states permit tourists to drive using their valid foreign license (like your Jordanian one) accompanied by an IDP, typically for up to six months. An IDP is highly recommended, and often required by specific states or car rental agencies, especially since your Jordanian license is in Arabic. Regulations are state-specific (e.g., New York may allow up to 12 months, California typically three months for tourists). If you become a resident, you'll need a state-issued license.
• United Kingdom (UK) (القيادة في بريطانيا):
  • You can drive in the UK with your valid Jordanian license for up to 12 months from the date you become a resident. An IDP (1949 version, which Jordan issues) is recommended as an official translation. After 12 months of residency, you must pass UK driving tests to get a UK license; Jordan is not on the list of 'designated countries' for direct license exchange.
• United Arab Emirates (UAE) (القيادة في الإمارات):
  • It is a legal requirement for visitors, including Jordanians, to have a valid IDP to rent a car and drive in the UAE. You must obtain this IDP before traveling to the UAE. Your Jordanian-issued IDP (1949 Convention) should be accepted.
• Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) (القيادة في السعودية):
  • Foreigners with a valid IDP can generally drive for up to one year. An IDP is strongly recommended with your Arabic Jordanian license and must be carried with it. Some rental companies may specifically require it. A printed IDP is likely necessary. If staying over a year, a Saudi license is mandatory.
• Republic of Turkey (القيادة في تركيا):
  • You can drive with your Jordanian license for up to six months. Since your license is in Arabic (a non-Latin alphabet), you must carry either a notarized Turkish translation of your license OR a valid IDP. An IDP is highly recommended generally, and rental companies may insist on it. A Turkish license is needed for stays longer than six months.
• Federal Republic of Germany (القيادة في ألمانيا):
  • For temporary stays, you can drive if you hold a valid domestic license OR an IDP. A German translation of your domestic license is mandatory if it wasn't issued in an EU/EEA state, is not in German, AND doesn't comply with the 1968 Vienna Convention (Annex 6). Since Jordan is not EU/EEA, its licenses are in Arabic, and it adheres to the 1949 Geneva Convention, a Jordanian driver in Germany would need their Jordanian license along with a valid IDP. This is valid for six months after establishing residency, then a German license is required.
• Other Countries Recognizing Jordanian IDPs:
  • As Jordan adheres to the 1949 Geneva Convention, IDPs issued by the RACJ are recognized by other signatory countries. Always verify specific requirements for your destination.

Your IDP and Jordanian license grant you the legal right to drive, but they do not provide any car insurance coverage. This is a critical distinction.

• Domestic vs. International Insurance: Your standard Jordanian car insurance policy is generally not valid for driving outside Jordan (except possibly some immediate neighboring countries under specific agreements, which are not widely documented). You need a separate international car insurance policy.
• Why It's Essential: International car insurance protects you financially against accidents, theft, and third-party liability in the foreign country you're driving in. Requirements vary by country.
• Types of Coverage to Consider:
  • Liability Coverage: Covers injury to others and damage to their property. Often a legal minimum.
  • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) / Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): Crucial for rental cars, limiting your financial responsibility for damage to the rental.
  • Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers.
• How to Obtain Coverage:
  • Rental Cars: Usually available directly through the car rental agency at your destination. Some credit cards offer rental insurance, but verify coverage details and country applicability thoroughly.

You might see online vendors offering "digital International Driving Licenses (IDLs)" or "digital IDPs". However, caution is advised:

• Official Stance: Established IDP issuers like the American Automobile Association (AAA) state that digital versions of IDPs are not officially available or considered valid. IDPs are traditionally physical, printed booklets.
• Jordan's Sanad App (تطبيق سند): Jordan has made significant advancements with its Sanad app for domestic digital identity and accessing government services. However, the Sanad app does not currently function as an International Driving Permit for use abroad.

Recommendation: Stick to the physical IDP issued by the Royal Automobile Club of Jordan (RACJ) to ensure international recognition and avoid potential legal issues.

• Always Carry Both: Your valid Jordanian license AND your official IDP.
• Obey Local Laws: Traffic rules, speed limits, parking – everything. Ignorance is not an excuse.
• Drive Defensively: Be aware of different driving styles, road conditions, and potential hazards like stray animals, especially in rural or less developed areas. Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar rural areas if possible.
• Long-Term Stays: If you plan to reside in a foreign country long-term, you will likely need to obtain a local driver's license within a specified period. Your IDP and Jordanian license are typically for temporary visitor status.
• Zero Tolerance: Many countries, including Jordan itself, have zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Penalties are severe.
• Mobile Phones: Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal in many places, including Jordan. Use hands-free if permitted and absolutely necessary.

• For IDP Issuance and Specifics:
  • Royal Automobile Club of Jordan (RACJ)
    • Address: 26 Princess Tharwat Street, P.O. Box 920, 11118 Amman, Jordan
    • Phone: +962-6-5850626 Ext.336
    • Email: dtcm@racj.com
    • Website: Check the official RACJ website for the most current information.
• For General Travel Advice (قد يكون محدودًا بشأن تفاصيل رخصة القيادة الدولية):
  • Jordanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates (وزارة الخارجية وشؤون المغتربين الأردنية): While they may not have detailed IDP specifics, they can be a source for general travel advisories. Their travel guide section might offer some insights for Jordanians traveling abroad.

Driving in a new country can be an exciting part of your international adventure. By preparing in advance, obtaining your official International Driving Permit from the RACJ, securing the right insurance, and familiarizing yourself with local rules, you'll be well on your way to a safe and enjoyable experience on the road.

Safe travels! (سفر آمن!)

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Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only. Always verify current regulations and requirements with official government sources, embassies, and car rental agencies before traveling.