Driving in Iran: Rules, Road Conditions and Safety Tips

Before you go: many governments currently advise against all or all but essential travel to Iran, and the situation can change quickly. Check your own government's latest travel advice, your travel insurance (which may be invalid if you travel against official advice) and entry requirements before making any plans.

Iran's distances are huge and its landscapes remarkable – deserts, mountains, caravanserais and historic cities such as Isfahan, Shiraz and Yazd – so a road trip can seem an appealing way to explore. But driving there comes with real challenges: dense, fast-moving city traffic, unwritten local driving habits and limited signage outside major routes. This guide explains the rules, conditions and practical precautions, and when hiring a local driver is the better choice.

Paperwork

1. Licence and permits

Visitors normally need their national driving licence plus an International Driving Permit. If you bring your own car, you'll need additional customs documents. Rental companies and the requirements they set vary, so confirm everything in writing in advance.

2. Insurance

Make sure the car has valid local insurance, and check whether your travel insurance covers driving in Iran – many policies don't if your government advises against travel.

Know the traffic rules

3. Signs and signals

Iran uses standard international road signs, with major routes also signposted in English. Traffic lights and road markings exist, but many drivers treat them flexibly – stay alert at junctions, lane changes and roundabouts.

4. Speed limits and seat belts

Speed limits are typically lower in cities and higher on motorways; cameras and police checks enforce them. Seat belts are compulsory for the driver and front passenger, and it's sensible for everyone to wear one.

5. Right of way

In theory, traffic on main roads has priority; in practice, larger and more assertive vehicles often take it. Drive defensively and assume others may not give way.

City driving

6. Tehran and other big cities

Tehran's traffic is famously intense, with heavy congestion at rush hours, motorbikes weaving between cars and pedestrians crossing anywhere. Parts of central Tehran have restricted traffic zones that require permits. Many visitors choose not to drive in Tehran at all and use taxis, ride-hailing apps or the metro instead.

7. Parking

Parking in historic centres can be very difficult. Use hotel parking or paid car parks, and walk or take taxis within cities.

Highways and rural roads

8. Main highways

Major routes between cities are generally in decent condition, with service areas and fuel stations. Long, straight desert roads can be tiring – take regular breaks and avoid driving at night, when unlit vehicles, animals and fatigue increase the risk.

9. Mountain and rural roads

Mountain roads can be narrow and winding, and conditions vary with the season – snow is common in the mountains in winter. Allow plenty of time and check the weather.

10. Fuel

Fuel is inexpensive, but the system for buying it can be complicated for visitors, sometimes requiring fuel cards. Ask your rental company or driver how it works before you set off, and fill up whenever you can on long routes.

Safety measures

• Carry documents: keep your passport, licence, permit and car papers with you – police checkpoints are common.
• Avoid sensitive areas: never photograph military or government sites, and stay away from border regions.
• Keep calm: if you're stopped, be polite and patient.
• Plan routes in advance and download offline maps.
• Stay in touch: tell someone your route and expected arrival times.

Consider hiring a driver

For most visitors, a car with a licensed local driver – or a driver-guide – is the safer and more relaxing choice. They know the roads, the rules and the checkpoints, can help with language and fuel, and let you enjoy the scenery. Domestic flights, long-distance buses and trains are also widely used between major cities.

For general advice on getting around abroad, see our guide to avoiding overpaying for taxis. Crossing the border from the Caucasus? See our guide to the ultimate trip to Baku.