Purchasing or bringing a vehicle into Jordan is entirely possible for foreign nationals, though the process involves working through a complex web of customs duties and tax obligations that can push the total cost well above a vehicle’s sticker price. Jordan is a right-hand traffic country that permits only left-hand drive vehicles for permanent import, and any vehicle more than five years old is barred from permanent importation. Holding a valid residency permit is a practical necessity for most stages of the process.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Driving side | Right-hand side (left-hand drive vehicles only for permanent import) |
| Maximum vehicle age for permanent import | 5 years from manufacture (as of 2025) |
| Import duty on passenger vehicles (general) | Approximately 5% of CIF value, plus special sales tax (as of 2025 — verify with Jordan Customs) |
| Special sales tax — passenger cars | Reduced from end of June 2025; previously up to 56% for conventional cars — check current rates with Jordan Customs |
| Jordanian driving licence fee (exchange, no test) | Approximately 250 JOD for a 10-year licence (as of 2025 — verify with the Department of Motor Vehicles) |
| Foreign licence fine (Jordanian-plate car) | 250 JOD fine for driving a Jordanian-plate car without a Jordanian licence (as of 2025) |
How do I buy a new car in Jordan as a foreigner?
Jordan’s dealership network is well-developed, with Amman serving as the main hub and most major global brands having a local presence. For foreign nationals, the mechanics of purchasing from a dealership are largely familiar — you select a model, agree on a price, and complete the necessary paperwork — though having a valid residency permit makes the process considerably smoother, particularly when it comes to vehicle financing and registration.
Dealerships will typically ask buyers to produce a valid passport, a valid Jordanian residency permit (referred to locally as the iqama), evidence of a Jordan-based address, and a Jordanian tax number. Since a Jordanian Tax Number is a standard requirement across purchase and import transactions, it is advisable to obtain one from the Income and Sales Tax Department (ISTD) before you begin the purchasing process.
Finance options are available through Jordanian banks, and some dealerships also offer their own financing packages. In practice, however, expats who have not yet built up a banking track record in Jordan may find it more straightforward to pay in cash or secure a personal loan independently. Most Jordanian banks provide personal loans that can cover vehicle purchases, with rates that differ between lenders — comparing several offers is worthwhile. Foreign nationals on short-term visas or without residency will generally be required to pay the full purchase price upfront.
All new vehicles sold through authorised dealerships will already conform to local standards and be configured for left-hand drive. The dealership typically manages the initial registration and arranges for Jordanian licence plates to be issued. Always request a complete invoice detailing the vehicle price and all taxes included. For up-to-date requirements, refer to the Jordan Customs Department and the Ministry of Transport.
How do I buy a used car in Jordan?
Jordan’s used car market is busy and broad in scope. Vehicles are available through specialist second-hand dealerships as well as through private listings on platforms such as OpenSooq and Hatla2ee. Private transactions can yield more competitive prices, but place greater responsibility on the buyer to carry out thorough checks, since consumer protections are less robust than those offered by established dealers.
Before finalising any used car purchase, you should thoroughly verify the vehicle’s legal standing. The key checks to carry out include:
- Outstanding traffic fines or unpaid fees associated with the vehicle
- Whether any bank loans or liens are registered against the vehicle
- Accident history and structural soundness — arrange an independent mechanical inspection
- That the name on the vehicle registration matches the identity document presented by the seller
- That the vehicle’s registration, including road tax, is current and valid
Used vehicles in Jordan must be transported to the Zarqa Free Zone to undergo testing by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to establish eligibility to enter the country in accordance with Jordanian specifications. The vehicle must pass this assessment, after which Interpol approval is obtained. Even for vehicles already within Jordan, a roadworthiness check forms part of the ownership transfer procedure. The Public Security Directorate – Traffic Department can be used to verify a vehicle’s registration details and any outstanding liabilities.
At the point of sale, the seller must provide the original vehicle registration document (istimara), a copy of their national ID or passport, and a signed sale agreement. Both parties then attend the Traffic Department — either in person or via an authorised agent — to formally record the transfer of ownership. Until this transfer is officially logged, the seller retains legal responsibility for any incidents involving the vehicle. The buyer must ensure valid insurance is in place from the moment possession is taken.
Can I import a vehicle into Jordan, and how does the process work?
Importing a vehicle into Jordan is permitted, but the rules governing vehicle age, type, and drive configuration are strict. Familiarising yourself with these requirements before arranging shipping can prevent costly mistakes.
The principal restrictions are as follows:
- Vehicles over five years old may not be imported; right-hand drive vehicles are prohibited; and diesel-powered passenger cars are not permitted.
- Electric vehicles more than three years old — calculated to include the year of customs clearance — are no longer eligible for importation, a measure intended to ensure that only newer, more dependable models enter the market.
- Vehicles that have sustained fire or flood damage, or that have been deemed beyond repair in their country of origin, are barred from importation — a restriction designed to safeguard buyers from unsafe or substandard cars.
Where the consignee is a taxed foreign national importing a vehicle in their own name, the car may be brought in under a temporary entry arrangement for up to six months, with renewal available every three months. Once that temporary period expires, the vehicle must either be taken out of the country or the owner must pay full customs duties to retain it.
For permanent importation with Jordanian licence plates, the vehicle must pass through the Zarqa Free Zone. Used vehicles imported into Jordan must be transported there for DMV testing to confirm eligibility; upon passing, Interpol approval is secured, duties are assessed and paid based on the customs-determined value, and registration can be completed at the free zone before the vehicle is released.
The step-by-step permanent import process is as follows:
- Confirm the vehicle satisfies Jordan’s eligibility criteria covering age, drive configuration, fuel type, and condition.
- Ship the vehicle to Aqaba Port (the primary sea freight entry point) or arrange air freight to Queen Alia International Airport in Amman.
- Engage a licensed customs clearance agent in Jordan — the customs declaration must be submitted electronically, and only an authorised forwarding agent based in Jordan is permitted to process this filing.
- Assemble the required documents: bill of lading (for sea shipments) or airway bill (for air shipments), the original vehicle title or ownership certificate, a valid motor car licence from the country of origin, a valid driving licence, a passport copy, and a Jordanian tax number.
- Transport the vehicle to the Zarqa Free Zone for technical inspection and Interpol clearance.
- Receive the customs duty assessment from the Jordan Customs Department and settle all applicable duties and taxes.
- Carry out any modifications required to bring the vehicle into compliance with local standards, such as lighting adjustments or safety equipment upgrades.
- Register the vehicle with the Traffic Department and obtain Jordanian licence plates.
The Jordan Customs Department handles duties and import procedures, while the Traffic Department (Public Security Directorate) oversees registration and vehicle inspection. Jordan Customs operates the Customs Integrated Tariff System (CITS), which importers can use to look up commodity tariffs, import conditions, trade agreements, applicable regulations, and other requirements.
Unlike certain countries that extend a duty-free personal effects concession to cover a vehicle brought in by someone relocating, Jordan does not generally provide this type of blanket exemption for privately owned cars. Exemption from customs duties on motor vehicles is only available where the transferee’s organisation holds a special agreement with a governmental body. Diplomats represent a notable exception — where the consignee qualifies as duty-exempt, such as a diplomat, the vehicle will likewise be tax-exempt. Always confirm your eligibility for any exemption directly with the Jordan Customs Department before shipping.
What are the costs involved in importing a car to Jordan?
The overall cost of importing a vehicle into Jordan can far exceed the vehicle’s purchase price, owing to the combination of import duty, special sales tax, and associated fees. Plan your budget carefully and always confirm current rates through official sources, as these figures are subject to change.
| Cost component | Details |
|---|---|
| Customs duty | Approximately 5% of CIF (cost, insurance, freight) value — verify current rate with Jordan Customs |
| Special sales tax (conventional petrol cars) | Previously up to 56% of value; reduced from June 2025 — confirm current rate with Jordan Customs / ISTD |
| Special sales tax (hybrids ≤2500cc) | Reduced rate applicable — previously 12.5%; confirm current rate with ISTD |
| Electric vehicle special tax | Fixed flat rate introduced mid-2025, replacing a tiered structure — check current rate with ISTD |
| VAT (general goods/services) | 16% standard VAT rate in Jordan — confirm applicability to your vehicle type with ISTD |
| Shipping (sea freight to Aqaba) | Varies by origin country and vehicle size; budget several hundred to several thousand USD |
| Port handling and customs broker fees | Variable; typically a fixed fee plus percentage — obtain quotes from licensed agents |
| Zarqa Free Zone inspection fee | Variable — confirm with the Free Zone authority |
| Vehicle modifications (if required) | Cost depends on specification differences (e.g. headlight adjustment, safety equipment) |
| Registration fee | Variable by vehicle category — confirm with the Traffic Department |
Jordan applies the CIF method when calculating import duties and taxes, meaning the taxable base incorporates not just the vehicle’s value but also the cost of shipping and insurance. As a result, a high shipping cost from a distant origin country directly inflates the tax liability. This differs from some other import regimes — such as the EU’s approach, which calculates duty and VAT on the transaction value — meaning Jordan’s CIF-based system can generate considerably larger tax bills for vehicles shipped from far afield.
The Jordanian government approved a comprehensive overhaul of the tax structure governing imported vehicles, substantially cutting the total tax burden on petrol, hybrid, and electric cars, with the changes taking effect at the end of June 2025. Given the scale of this reform, it is essential to verify the precise current rates directly with the Jordan Customs Department and the Income and Sales Tax Department (ISTD) before committing to any expenditure.
Vehicles imported with specifications that do not match Jordanian standards may require modifications such as headlight realignment, front fog light installation, or enhanced cooling systems. The vehicle must then pass a technical inspection to confirm compliance with Jordan’s safety and emissions standards. These compliance costs should be included in your overall budget from the outset.
How do I register a vehicle in Jordan?
Vehicle registration in Jordan falls under the responsibility of the Traffic Department, which operates within the Public Security Directorate of the Ministry of Interior. Every vehicle used on public roads must carry valid Jordanian registration, and the registration certificate (the istimara) must be kept in the vehicle at all times.
For a brand-new vehicle purchased through a dealership, the registration process is typically handled by the dealer on the buyer’s behalf, including the issuance of licence plates. For a used vehicle acquired privately or through a second-hand dealer, the buyer must attend the Traffic Department in person — usually at the nearest regional office — to complete the ownership transfer and receive updated registration documents.
For an imported vehicle, the concluding step involves registering the vehicle and confirming it meets Jordan’s roadworthiness requirements. Modifications such as headlight adjustment or front fog light installation may be necessary, and the car must pass a technical inspection confirming adherence to Jordan’s safety and emissions standards. Once it passes, the vehicle can be registered with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Jordanian licence plates obtained.
Documents typically required for registration include:
- Valid passport and residency permit
- Vehicle ownership title or bill of sale
- Customs clearance certificate (for imported vehicles)
- Valid third-party insurance certificate
- Roadworthiness inspection certificate (for used/imported vehicles)
- Jordanian tax number
For a straightforward locally purchased vehicle with all paperwork in order, the registration process can generally be completed within a single day. Imported vehicles require additional time owing to the Zarqa Free Zone inspection stage. For the latest procedural guidance, visit the Traffic Department website or your nearest Traffic Department office.
What insurance do I need to drive legally in Jordan?
Third-party liability insurance is a legal requirement for all vehicles operated on public roads in Jordan. It represents the minimum cover required by law and must be obtained before a vehicle can be registered. Driving without valid insurance carries serious legal and financial repercussions, and being involved in a collision while uninsured compounds these consequences significantly.
Jordan’s motor insurance sector is made up of private insurers regulated by the Insurance Commission of Jordan (ICD). In contrast to some countries where motor insurance is handled by a state-run provider, Jordan operates a competitive private market with multiple companies offering both third-party and comprehensive policies. The structure is broadly comparable to insurance markets across much of Europe and the Middle East, though premiums and policy terms vary between providers.
Any vehicle on Jordanian roads — whether permanently registered or on temporary import status — must hold local insurance covering Jordanian territories throughout the period it is being used. Foreign no-claims histories are not formally recognised through a standardised system in Jordan, which means expats are typically quoted as new customers regardless of their record elsewhere. Nevertheless, it is worth presenting documentation of your claims history to insurers, as some may informally take this into account when setting premiums.
Comprehensive cover (known locally as ta’meen shamil) is available and is strongly advisable for expats, especially those with higher-value or imported vehicles. When purchasing a used car, verify that the previous owner’s policy has been cancelled and arrange a new policy in your own name effective from the date you take ownership. The Insurance Commission of Jordan maintains a list of licensed insurers and provides guidance on minimum cover requirements.
What driving licence do I need in Jordan as an expat?
Driving in Jordan is overseen by the Ministry of Transport, which establishes the rules for obtaining and using driving licences. The applicable requirements differ depending on whether you are in Jordan as a temporary visitor or as a resident, and the distinction has meaningful practical and legal implications — particularly in terms of insurance coverage.
Short-term visitors and tourists can generally drive using a foreign driving licence, and carrying an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside it is strongly advisable. Driving safely and legally in Jordan requires an IDP — a document that renders your home-country licence into multiple languages and is recognised by Jordanian authorities and car rental companies alike. IDPs are typically valid for one year from the date of issue and must be used in conjunction with the original national licence; they are not valid as standalone documents.
For residents holding a Jordanian residency permit, the rules are more demanding. A 250 JOD fine applies to anyone who drives a Jordanian-plate vehicle without holding a Jordanian driving licence. Beyond the financial penalty, the more significant practical problem is that no insurance provider will pay out if you are involved in an accident while driving without a valid Jordanian licence. This makes converting your licence a matter of priority once residency is established.
A valid Jordanian residency card is a prerequisite for exchanging a non-Jordanian licence for a Jordanian one, and not all foreign licences qualify for a straight exchange without a test. Those who are eligible can obtain a 10-year Jordanian licence without sitting a driving test for approximately 250 JOD, by attending the Marka Department of Motor Vehicles Licensing Department with the required documentation, including both the original and a copy of the non-Jordanian licence, which must remain valid in the issuing country.
For foreign nationals seeking a Jordanian driving licence, the documents required include a valid foreign driving licence, a valid annual residence permit, and approval from the security intelligence service. The fee is 203.70 JOD and the licence is valid for 10 years. Always confirm the current fee and exact document requirements with the Traffic Department before attending, as these details may be updated.
How do I sell a car in Jordan?
Selling a vehicle in Jordan requires the formal transfer of ownership to be recorded at the Traffic Department. It is important to note that until this official transfer is completed, the seller continues to bear legal responsibility for any traffic violations, accidents, or incidents connected to the vehicle — making it essential that all documentation is finalised before handing over the keys.
Before advertising a vehicle for sale, the seller should:
- Clear all outstanding traffic fines and fees linked to the vehicle
- Confirm that the vehicle’s registration (istimara) is current and has not lapsed
- Verify that no bank loans or liens remain registered against the vehicle
- Compile all original documentation: registration certificate, purchase invoices, and any service history
When the sale is agreed, the seller and buyer should ideally attend the Traffic Department together, although some transactions are completed through an authorised agent. The ownership transfer is formally entered into the Traffic Department’s register, following which a revised istimara is issued in the buyer’s name. Until this entry is made, the seller remains the recorded legal owner of the vehicle.
There is no capital gains tax applicable to private vehicle sales in Jordan in the conventional sense — such transactions are treated as private sales rather than investment disposals. However, if the vehicle was originally imported under a customs exemption arrangement — for instance, under a diplomatic exemption — specific conditions and restrictions govern any subsequent sale, and transferring the vehicle before the specified period may give rise to a duty liability. If your vehicle was imported under any preferential arrangement, seek guidance from the Jordan Customs Department and a local tax adviser before proceeding.
Once ownership has been formally transferred, inform your insurer and arrange for the policy to be cancelled or reassigned. Retain a copy of the signed sale agreement and confirmation of the transfer registration for your own records.
Are there any ongoing costs or obligations for vehicle ownership in Jordan?
Vehicle ownership in Jordan brings with it a range of recurring costs and compliance obligations that apply to all drivers, including expats. These are broadly comparable to the annual requirements found in many other countries, though there are some Jordan-specific aspects worth being aware of.
Annual vehicle registration renewal: Registration must be renewed each year through the Traffic Department. The renewal fee is determined by vehicle type, engine capacity, and age. Crucially, renewal cannot proceed while outstanding traffic fines remain attached to the vehicle, so it is advisable to check and settle any penalties before the renewal falls due.
Mandatory roadworthiness inspection: Jordan requires vehicles to undergo periodic technical inspections, which function similarly to an annual MOT-style assessment and form part of the registration renewal process. The inspection covers mechanical condition, lighting, brakes, tyres, and emissions compliance. Older vehicles may face more stringent scrutiny. These checks are conducted at authorised testing centres.
Compulsory third-party insurance: As described above, valid third-party insurance must be maintained continuously. Cover is usually purchased or renewed annually and must be presented as part of the vehicle registration renewal process.
Fuel and running costs: Fuel prices in Jordan are set and periodically reviewed by the government. Petrol prices are broadly moderate by regional comparison, but are subject to fluctuation. Staying informed through official announcements is advisable.
The tax on all imported car parts is estimated at 20%, which may result in higher prices for replacement parts than in the country of origin. This is a particularly noteworthy ongoing consideration for expats who own vehicles built to non-standard specifications, where components may need to be sourced from overseas.
For current fee schedules and inspection requirements, refer to the Traffic Department and the Ministry of Transport. For tax-related questions, consult the Income and Sales Tax Department (ISTD).
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a residency permit to buy a car in Jordan?
Although a foreign national may technically be able to enter into a purchase agreement, a valid Jordanian residency permit (iqama) is a practical necessity for registering a vehicle in your name, obtaining financing, and converting your driving licence. Without residency, you are likely to encounter significant barriers at the registration and licensing stages. Confirm current requirements directly with the Traffic Department and the Ministry of Transport.
Can I import a right-hand drive vehicle into Jordan?
No. The importation of vehicles with right-hand drive configuration is prohibited in Jordan. Only left-hand drive vehicles qualify for permanent importation. This restriction is absolute and does not admit of individual exemptions.
How old can a vehicle be for it to be permanently imported into Jordan?
Vehicles that are more than five years old from the year of manufacture cannot be permanently imported into Jordan. For electric vehicles specifically, those more than three years old — including the year of customs clearance — are no longer eligible for import. Always check the current rule with Jordan Customs before purchasing a vehicle abroad with the intention of importing it.
Are there any tax concessions for importing a car when relocating to Jordan?
Jordan does not extend a general personal effects or removal goods exemption to privately owned vehicles. Exemption from customs duties on motor vehicles is only available where the transferee’s organisation holds a special agreement with a governmental body. Diplomatic personnel may qualify for an exemption. All other individuals permanently importing a vehicle will be liable for the full range of customs duties and applicable taxes. Confirm your eligibility for any concession directly with the Jordan Customs Department.
What happens if I drive a Jordanian-plate car on a foreign licence?
A fine of 250 JOD applies to anyone driving a Jordanian-plate vehicle without holding a valid Jordanian driving licence. Additionally, in the event of an accident, no insurer will provide cover. Converting your licence to a Jordanian one should therefore be treated as a priority as soon as residency is established. Check your eligibility for a direct exchange — without a test — with the Traffic Department.
Can I bring a diesel car into Jordan?
Diesel-powered passenger cars are not permitted for importation into Jordan. This restriction applies to permanent imports. Certain diesel commercial vehicles may be subject to different rules — confirm the position with Jordan Customs for your particular vehicle type.
What documents do I need to transfer ownership of a used car?
Both the seller and the buyer should attend the Traffic Department together, bringing the original vehicle registration document (istimara), passports or national identity cards for both parties, a signed sale and purchase agreement, evidence that all outstanding fines have been cleared, and a valid insurance certificate in the buyer’s name. The Traffic Department will update its records and issue a new istimara in the buyer’s name. Requirements may vary slightly depending on the governorate — confirm the current checklist with your local Traffic Department office before attending.
Are hybrid and electric vehicles treated differently for import taxes in Jordan?
The Jordanian government approved a sweeping reform of the tax framework for imported vehicles — covering petrol, hybrid, and electric models — with the revised structure coming into effect at the end of June 2025, as part of a wider effort to ease the cost of living and broaden the range of affordable vehicle options. The specific rates applying to each vehicle category following this reform should be confirmed directly with the Income and Sales Tax Department (ISTD) and the Jordan Customs Department, as the new structure was actively being implemented at the time of publication.