Public Security Directorate outlines 18 circumstances for vehicle impoundment

According to Jordanian traffic law, there are 18 specific circumstances under which the Public Security Directorate (PSD) may impound a vehicle for committing violations outlined in the law.

The 2023 traffic laws outline that a vehicle may be impounded for no less than 24 hours and no more than 30 days under the following conditions:

1. Unregistered vehicle: If the vehicle is not registered according to the provisions of this law and its regulations.
2. Unlicensed driver: If the driver is not licensed to drive.
3. Unauthorized operation of public passenger transport: If a public passenger transport vehicle operates during the suspension of its permit.
4. Improper use: If the vehicle is used for purposes other than those for which it was licensed.
5. Incorrect license category: If a public vehicle is driven with a license from categories one, two, three, or seven.
6. Reckless or exhibitionist driving: If the vehicle is driven recklessly or in an exhibitionist manner on the road.
7. Unauthorized warning devices: If light or sound warning devices are installed on a vehicle not permitted to have them.
8. Improper license plates: If the vehicle is driven without front or rear license plates, with counterfeit plates, or with illegal plates.
9. Expired vehicle license: If the vehicle's license has expired for three months or more.
10. Wanted vehicle: If the vehicle is subject to a seizure order.
11. Spillage of hazardous materials: If the vehicle leaks or spills oil, petroleum products, hazardous substances, or any environmental pollutants, or lacks clear warning and instructional labels, or does not have a permit to transport such materials.
12. Non-compliance with license specifications: If the vehicle does not match the specifications of its license.
13. Driving without lights: If the vehicle is driven at night without using its front or rear lights, or both.
14. Driving against traffic flow: If the vehicle is driven in the opposite direction on one-way roads.
15. Convoy or excessive passenger movement: If vehicles travel in a convoy that obstructs traffic, or if passengers' bodies protrude from the vehicles during movement, or if they do not adhere to the right lane.
16. Unauthorized use of bus lanes: If non-authorized vehicles use lanes designated for public transportation.
17. Unlicensed public transport: If an unlicensed vehicle is used for public transportation for a fee.
18. Overloading school vehicles: If a school transport vehicle or other educational institution vehicle carries more passengers than permitted according to regulations.