THINKING OF RENTING A CAR IN JORDAN? HERE IS EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW.
Are you planning a road trip in Jordan and are wondering whether renting a car in Jordan is a good idea? I can assure you: Yes, it is a great idea to rent a car in Jordan and explore this beautiful country on four wheels.
Hiring a car in Jordan gives you the freedom and flexibility to discover all of the amazing sights and sounds at your own pace – especially because the public transportation in Jordan is not the most extensive.
When I visited Jordan as a solo female traveler I was so happy to discover the country on “my own four wheels” and not have to rely on guided tours or public transportation. A road trip is a fantastic way to see the many attractions – from the Dead Sea (the lowest point in the world) to the desert or the coast (yes, Jordan also has a bit of coast).
When it comes to rental cars in Jordan, I will guide you in this post on how to find the perfect rental car in Jordan for your trip. So, let´s talk about rental cars in Jordan and everything you need to know.
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RENT A CAR IN JORDAN: FAQs
Here are some FAQs about renting cars in Jordan.
SHOULD I RENT A CAR IN JORDAN?
Renting a car in Jordan can be a great way to explore the country at your own pace and discover hidden gems that may not be easily accessible by public transportation.
While there are some public transportation options available, such as buses and taxis, they can be limited and in more remote areas they may not always be reliable. I would say, yes! Yes, you should rent a car in Jordan and hit the roads.
However, it’s important to be aware that driving in Jordan can be challenging in some areas, especially in urban areas where traffic can be heavy and chaotic. The roads can be narrow and winding, and there may be unexpected obstacles such as animals or pedestrians on the road.
Driving in Jordan can be an adventure in itself, with narrow roads, bustling city streets, and the occasional camel crossing. However, with a little caution and preparation, renting a car in Jordan can be fun and a memorable experience.
If you’re comfortable with driving in foreign countries and want the freedom to explore Jordan on your own terms, renting a car can be a great option.
Ultimately, whether you should hire a car in Jordan depends on your travel style and plans. It’s important to consider factors such as your itinerary, budget, and comfort level with driving in a foreign country before making a decision.
With the lack of good public transportation in Jordan, renting a car can be a practical and enjoyable way to see this amazing country.
CAN FOREIGNERS RENT A CAR IN JORDAN?
Yes, foreigners can rent a car in Jordan. In fact, renting a car is a popular option if you want to explore the country on your own terms.
It’s important to note that driving in Jordan can be different from what you’re used to, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local traffic laws and customs before hitting the road. The roads in Jordan can be narrow and winding, and there may be different driving customs and practices than what you’re used to at home.
With a little preparation and caution, renting a car in Jordan as a foreigner can be a fun and memorable experience.
WHAT DO I NEED TO RENT A CAR IN JORDAN? RULES AND REGULATIONS
To hire a car in Jordan, you will need:
- A valid driver’s license from your home country: Your driver’s license should be valid and current, and you must have held it for at least one year. Some car rental companies may require an international driver’s license (international driving permit), so it’s a good idea to check with the company in advance.
- A passport or ID: You will need to provide a valid passport or ID as proof of identity.
- A credit card: You will need a credit card in your name to make the rental reservation and provide a deposit for the rental. Some car rental companies may also accept a debit card, but a credit card is generally preferred.
- Age requirement: The minimum age requirement to rent a car in Jordan is usually 21 years old. However, some car rental companies may require drivers to be 25 years old or older.
- Additional requirements: Some car rental companies in Jordan may require additional documentation or identification, such as proof of insurance or a return airline ticket.
- Insurance: It’s important to have insurance coverage for your rental car in Jordan. Some car rental companies may offer insurance as part of the rental agreement, while others may require you to purchase insurance separately. Be sure to ask about insurance options when you book your rental car.
It’s important to note that requirements may vary depending on the car rental company and the type of vehicle you are renting. It’s always a good idea to check with the company in advance to ensure you have all the necessary documents and information before you arrive.
WHAT ELSE DO I NEED FOR MY RENTAL CAR IN JORDAN?
- GPS or navigation system: If you’re planning to explore Jordan by car, a GPS or navigation system can be very helpful for navigating unfamiliar roads and finding your way to your destination. Some car rental companies may offer GPS or navigation systems as an add-on option for an additional fee.
- Child seats: If you’re traveling with young children, you may need a child seat for your rental car. Some car rental companies may offer child seats as an add-on option for an additional fee.
- Fuel: Make sure to clarify with the car rental company whether you are responsible for refueling the car before returning it or whether they will refill it for you and charge you for the fuel.
IS IT EASY TO DRIVE IN JORDAN?
Yes, talking from my own experience with driving in Jordan, I would say, driving in Jordan is easy. With a little preparation and awareness, you can safely and confidently navigate the roads in Jordan and enjoy all the country has to offer.
Just keep a few things in mind: In Amman, the capital city, driving can be challenging due to heavy traffic, narrow roads, and aggressive driving behaviors. However, outside of the city, driving can be much more enjoyable and straightforward.
In more rural areas of Jordan, the roads tend to be less congested, with fewer vehicles on the road. The scenery is breathtaking, with wide-open spaces and stunning natural landscapes.
Some roads in Jordan can be narrow, winding, and steep, especially in mountainous areas. These roads can be challenging for inexperienced drivers, so it’s important to exercise caution and drive defensively, so it’s important to exercise caution and drive defensively.
It’s also important to be aware of the presence of animals and people on the streets, especially in rural areas. It’s not uncommon to encounter herds of sheep or goats crossing the road or to see people walking along the side of the road. It’s important to be patient and allow them to pass safely, as well as to watch out for any unexpected obstacles on the road.
Be aware of the local customs and driving behaviors, such as the tendency for drivers to pass on both the left and the right.
WHERE SHOULD I GET MY RENTAL CAR IN JORDAN?
Rental locations in Jordan:
You can choose from several rental locations in Jordan:
Amman Airport (Queen Alia International Airport) is a popular place to rent a car in Jordan as it is the main international airport in the country and has several car rental companies located within the airport terminal.
You can also book your rental car at other places, but I suggest either getting it from Amman City (though I would not use the rental car to actually do sightseeing in the city by car) or at the airport.
CHECK OUT RENTAL CARS AT QUEEN ALIA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT HERE
CHECK OUT RENTAL CARS AT DIFFERENT LOCATIONS IN THE CITY OF AMMAN HERE
CHECK OUT RENTAL CARS AT AQABA HERE
CHECK OUT RENTAL CARS AT THE DEAD SEA HERE
To get the best deals, I recommend you book your rental car in advance to ensure availability and to get the best rates. Especially during the peak season, booking early might be the best way to go!
WHAT KIND OF CAR SHOULD I RENT IN JORDAN?
The type of car you should rent in Jordan depends on your individual travel plans and preferences. However, there are a few things to consider when choosing a rental car in Jordan:
- Roads: Consider the types of roads you will be driving on. If you plan to explore mountainous areas, a 2-wheel drive car may be sufficient, but if you plan to venture off-road or into remote areas or do your own desert safari in Wadi Rum, a 4-wheel drive car may be necessary.
- Size: Think about the size of the car you need. A smaller car may be easier to navigate on narrow roads, but a larger car may be more comfortable for longer trips or for carrying luggage and gear.
- Comfort: Consider the level of comfort you need in your rental car. Do you need a luxury car or is a simple car enough for a road trip?
- If you plan to spend a lot of time on the road, a more comfortable car with air conditioning and other amenities may be worth the extra cost.
- Budget: Finally, consider your budget. Rental car prices in Jordan can vary widely depending on the type of car and the rental company, so be sure to shop around and compare prices to find the best deal.
Overall, a 2-wheel drive car should be fine for most driving in Jordan, but if you plan to explore more remote or mountainous areas, you may want to consider a 4-wheel drive car.
HOW MUCH DOES RENTING A CAR COST IN JORDAN?
The cost of renting a car in Jordan can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of car you choose, the rental duration, the rental company, and the time of year.
Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from 25 JOD (35 USD) per day for a small economy car to 70 JOD (99 USD) or more per day for a larger, more luxurious vehicle. Prices may be higher during peak travel seasons, such as summer or major holidays.
In addition to the daily rental fee, you may also need to pay additional fees, such as insurance, fuel, and taxes.
Some car rental companies may also require a security deposit or hold on your credit card.
Make sure to read the fine print carefully to understand all the fees associated with your rental.
DO I NEED CAR INSURANCE WHEN DRIVING IN JORDAN?
Yes, you will need car insurance when driving in Jordan. It’s important to have insurance coverage for your rental car to protect yourself in case of accidents or other unexpected events.
Some car rental companies in Jordan may offer insurance as part of the rental agreement, while others may require you to purchase insurance separately. Make sure to ask about insurance options when you book your rental car.
It’s important to clarify what kind of coverage is included in your insurance policy, such as collision damage waiver (CDW) or theft protection. You may also want to consider additional insurance coverage, such as personal liability insurance or medical coverage, especially if you plan to travel in more remote or rural areas.
As a fellow German, I know how important it is to have full coverage when renting a car, especially when traveling abroad.
While renting a car in Jordan can be a great way to explore the country at your own pace, it’s important to have adequate insurance coverage to protect yourself in case of any unexpected incidents on the road. Full coverage can provide you with peace of mind and help you avoid any potential trouble later on.
HOW MUCH IS JORDAN FULL CAR RENTAL INSURANCE?
The cost of full car rental insurance in Jordan varies depending on several factors, such as the type of car you’re renting, the length of the rental, and the rental company you’re using.
Generally speaking, full car rental insurance in Jordan can cost anywhere from 10 to 30 JOD (14 to 42 USD) per day, depending on the level of coverage and the rental company. Some car rental companies may offer different levels of coverage, such as basic insurance or comprehensive insurance, with different prices for each.
It’s important to note that some car rental companies in Jordan may require you to purchase full car rental insurance as a condition of renting the car, while others may allow you to decline the coverage or provide your own insurance.
Make sure to ask about insurance options when you book your rental car and read the fine print carefully to understand all the fees associated with your rental.
Overall, the cost of full car rental insurance in Jordan can add up quickly, so it’s important to factor this cost into your overall budget when planning your trip.
WHERE TO RENT A CAR FOR JORDA ROAD TRIP?
There are many places you can rent a car for your Jordan road trip – I, however, recommend using DiscoverCars for comparing rental car prices. Though I mostly travel in my own car, I do also rent cars in some instances (e.g. in Jordan), and I love this site for several reasons:
- Compare prices: By using this site, you can quickly and easily compare prices from different car rental companies in Jordan and get the best price. This can help you find the best deal for your rental car and potentially save you money.
- Filter options: This site allows you to filter your search results by factors such as car type, rental company, and location. This can help you narrow down your options and find the right rental car for your needs.
- Read reviews: It features customer reviews and ratings for different rental companies. This can help you get a sense of the quality of service and overall experience you can expect from each company.
- Convenience: Using a comparison site like DiscoverCars can save you time and hassle by allowing you to book your rental car directly from the site. You can also often view all your options in one place, which can make the process of choosing a rental car much easier.
TOP 11 TIPS FOR DRIVING IN JORDAN
1 SEAT BELTS
You have to wear a seat belt at all times
2 DO NOT LITTER
You are not allowed to throw things out of a car – and compared to many other countries in the Middle East, it actually is quite clean.
3 HAVE A GPS
GPS – I had Google Maps and Here We Go which both can be used offline. However, sometimes they did not get me where I wanted to go. Since there are some new streets, both apps had problems guiding me. Overall, they worked well, but not perfectly. Make sure to download an offline map before your trip.
4 POLICE STOPS
There are a lot of police stops throughout the country. You could be pulled over at any time, but normally it is fine, and you have to present your papers. Just double-check all the papers when you pick up the car, so you avoid any – unnecessary – problems.
P.S. I was pulled over and, apparently, one paper was missing. The rental company did not give it to me. The police handed out a fine but I did not have to pay on the spot. When I gave that fine to the rental company, they said that it would not be a problem and would pay for it… Apparently, they do not always hand over that particular certificate, and so they accept the consequences.
5 SPEED LIMITS
Speed limits: Many speed signs will tell you the exact speed limit, but in general: 60 km in cities, 80 km in rural areas, and 120 km on highways.
6 SPEED HUMPS
There are speed humps. A lot of them. Many, many of them. They are everywhere. So, always watch out for them because they sometimes even appear out of nowhere – and even if you stick to the speed limit, you very quickly have to sharply reduce your speed if you don’t want your car to be damaged. While speeding in Jordan is less of a problem than in other countries, it sometimes even causes some danger. Anyhow, don’t be surprised by MANY speed humps.
7 WATCH OUT FOR HUMANS…AND ANIMALS
Sometimes, animals are on the street. And sometimes humans are on the street. In the town center near Petra, people sat on the curb (with their legs and feet in the street)… smoking shisha. Some people in groups don’t like to walk behind each other but would rather walk next to each other – even if that means that people walk in the street. So, always watch out.
8 DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE
Don‘t drink and drive. Unfortunately, this isn’t a global rule (some countries do allow drivers to have a few drinks), but you can’t drive in Jordan if you have had a drink.
9 DOUBLE-CHECK YOUR HEADLIGHTS
If you drive at night, double-check your lights as there aren’t many street lights. Also, in Jordan, it’s mandatory to keep your headlights on at all times when driving, even during the daytime.
10 THERE ARE MANY GAS STATION
Jordan boasts a plentiful network of gas stations, ensuring convenient access for drivers. However, my tip is still not to wait until the “last minute” to refill but always have a full tank.
Notably, gas prices remain remarkably stable throughout the day, offering predictability. Though Jordan is a Middle Eastern Country they have to import most of the gas and though the average gas price is about 1.355 Dinar (as of September 2023) which is about $ 1,90.
It’s essential to have cash on hand, as many stations prefer it over cards. Whether you’re exploring historic sites like Petra or navigating the urban streets of Amman, these well-distributed and price-consistent gas stations guarantee a hassle-free refueling experience.
11 TAKE YOUR TIME
Take breaks when needed: If you’re driving long distances, take regular breaks to rest and recharge. There are plenty of rest stops and cafes along the major highways.
CONCLUSION: HOW TO RENT A CAR IN JORDAN
Hiring a car in Jordan can be the easiest way to explore the country’s stunning landscapes and historic sites at your own pace.
When choosing a rental car, consider the type of roads you will be driving on, the size of the car you need, and your budget. It’s important to have insurance coverage for your rental car, which can be offered by the rental company or purchased separately.
Driving in Jordan can be challenging in some areas, especially in urban areas, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with local driving laws and customs and exercise caution on mountain roads. It’s also important to be aware of animals and people on the roads and to take regular breaks and stay hydrated.
But then you have the amazing main highway (King´s Highway), where driving is bliss and rather relaxing and chilled.
Overall, renting a car in Jordan can be a great way to discover the country’s unique beauty and history, and by following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable driving experience.