Car Rental in Irbid

Where to drive

• Umm Qais (Gadara): Drive approximately 40 km (50 minutes) northwest from Irbid to explore the impressive Roman ruins of ancient Gadara, offering panoramic views of the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights.
• Jerash (Gerasa): Head south for about 50 km (1 hour) to the remarkably preserved Roman city of Jerash, often called the 'Pompeii of the East,' with its grand colonnaded streets and theaters.
• Ajloun Castle: A scenic drive of roughly 30 km (45 minutes) southwest will take you to Ajloun Castle, a 12th-century Muslim castle built to protect iron mines and deter Crusader incursions.
• Jordan Valley: Explore the lush agricultural landscapes of the Jordan Valley, just a short drive west from Irbid, offering a different perspective of Jordan's diverse geography.
• Pella (Tabqat Fahl): Travel about 35 km (45 minutes) west to the archaeological site of Pella, one of the oldest settlements in the region, with continuous occupation for over 6,000 years.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Jordan, you typically need a valid passport, a national driving license held for at least one year, and an International Driving Permit (IDP). The minimum age for renting is usually 21, though some companies may require drivers to be 23 or 25, especially for certain car categories. Drivers under 25 might incur a young driver surcharge.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Irbid generally start from around 20-30 USD per day for an economy car, while SUVs and premium vehicles can range from approximately 50-100+ USD per day. Prices tend to be higher during the peak tourist seasons of spring and autumn.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Jordan, driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are generally around 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on highways. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is effectively zero (0.00%). Headlights should be used in tunnels and during adverse weather. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under a certain age or height, though availability can vary with rental companies.

Parking

In Irbid, parking in the city center can be challenging but is often available in designated street spots or paid lots. Many residential areas and attractions outside the immediate city center offer free parking. Always check for signs and avoid parking in prohibited areas to prevent fines or towing.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available in Irbid and along major routes. Unleaded petrol is the standard fuel type. Prices are regulated by the government and are generally consistent across stations, typically paid in Jordanian Dinars (JOD) with cash or credit card. It is advisable to fill up before long journeys, especially when heading to more remote areas.

Which car to choose

For navigating Irbid's city streets and visiting nearby archaeological sites, a compact or economy car is usually sufficient and easier to park. If you plan to venture into more rural or hilly terrain, or if you prefer more comfort for longer drives, an SUV or a mid-size sedan would be a good choice. Automatic transmissions are widely available and recommended for ease of driving.

Frequently asked questions