Quick answer
Yes, you can drive from Amman to Jerusalem, but you cannot take a private vehicle across the border. The crossing at King Hussein Bridge (Allenby Bridge) requires switching to authorized shuttle buses that operate between the Jordanian and Israeli terminals. The journey involves three distinct stages: driving to the Jordanian terminal, taking the shuttle across, and arranging onward transport from the Israeli side.
Private vehicles do not cross King Hussein Bridge. The 60-kilometer drive from Amman to the Jordanian terminal takes roughly 45 minutes, but the border itself operates under a system that separates personal cars from passenger transit. Travelers park at the Jordanian facility, complete exit formalities, and board a dedicated shuttle bus that crosses the Jordan Valley to the Israeli terminal. The Allenby Bridge crossing serves as the primary land link between Jordan and the West Bank, handling thousands of daily crossings under joint Jordanian-Israeli administration. Unlike crossings further north or south, this route leads directly into the Palestinian territories rather than Israel proper, adding a layer of administrative complexity. Israeli authorities control entry procedures on the western side, while Jordanian immigration manages the eastern terminal. The 190 ILS departure tax applies to all passengers leaving Israel via this crossing, collected at the Israeli terminal before departure. Timing determines whether the crossing feels manageable or chaotic. The bridge operates with different hours depending on the day of the week, closing earlier on Fridays and Saturdays. Arriving between 08:00 and 12:00 positions travelers ahead of the afternoon surge, when tour groups, commercial traffic, and returning residents converge. The entire process—exiting Jordan, riding the shuttle, clearing Israeli immigration, and securing onward transport—typically requires two to four hours when the terminals are running smoothly. Once through the Israeli terminal, the road to Jerusalem climbs 30 kilometers through the Judean Desert, rising from the valley floor at 250 meters below sea level to the city at 750 meters above. Shared taxis and pre-arranged transfers handle the final leg, as rental cars from Jordan are not permitted to continue. The route passes Jericho before ascending through checkpoints that monitor traffic entering the Jerusalem district, a reminder that this remains one of the world's most scrutinized borders.
“The crossing at King Hussein Bridge requires switching to authorized shuttle buses that operate between terminals, with the entire process typically requiring two to four hours.”
How Can You Drive From Amman To Jerusalem via Allenby Bridge?
It is not possible to drive a private vehicle directly from Amman to Jerusalem across the Allenby Bridge. Travelers must use a combination of pre-arranged transport or shuttle services to complete the crossing.
Amman to King Hussein Bridge (Allenby Bridge)
Jett Bus from Amman to King Hussein Bridge
Cross-border shuttle bus between terminals
Allenby Bridge terminal to Jerusalem
Step-by-Step Procedure: Can You Drive From Amman To Jerusalem?
Driving from Amman to Jerusalem requires crossing the King Hussein Bridge (Allenby Bridge), where you must exit your Jordanian vehicle, complete border formalities on foot, and arrange separate Israeli transport on the other side. The entire crossing typically takes 2-4 hours depending on queue length and document processing speed.
Exit Jordan at the bridge terminal
Arrive at King Hussein Bridge and proceed to the Jordanian departure hall. Pay the exit fee, present your passport, and obtain your exit stamp—keep all receipts as Israeli authorities may request them.
Cross the bridge transit zone
After Jordanian exit procedures, board the shuttle bus that transports passengers across the bridge to the Israeli terminal. Your private vehicle cannot cross; arrange for it to be returned to Amman or left in secure parking on the Jordanian side.
Complete Israeli entry formalities
Present your passport and Jordan exit documentation at Israeli immigration. Answer questions about your visit purpose and duration—be prepared for additional security screening, which can add 30-90 minutes during peak periods.
Arrange onward transport to Jerusalem
Hire a private taxi from the designated stand outside the Israeli terminal, or pre-book a transfer service to meet you. Shared sherut minibuses operate irregularly; confirm availability before relying on them for your onward journey.
Best Time For A Trip: When Can You Drive From Amman To Jerusalem?
The best arrival window is 08:00–12:00 to avoid afternoon border congestion and ensure completion of transit before daily closure. Planning your arrival during these morning hours is essential for a manageable crossing at the King Hussein Bridge (Allenby Bridge).
Weekday mornings
Moderate to low crowds—
Arriving at 08:00 allows you to clear the border before peak midday traffic. This window provides the highest reliability for reaching Jerusalem and Bethlehem as planned.
Spring (April–May)
High seasonal volumeMild, 20°C–25°C
Expect increased traveler numbers during these months, requiring earlier arrival to compensate for potential delays.
Autumn (September–October)
Moderate seasonal volumeWarm, 22°C–28°C
These months offer favorable conditions for transit, though early morning arrivals remain the most efficient strategy.
Summer/Winter
Variable congestionHot or cool extremes
Regardless of the season, maintaining the 08:00–12:00 arrival window is critical to account for varying wait times at the crossing.
Verdict: The most efficient transit window is Tuesday to Thursday, arriving at the border at 08:00 during the months of April or October.
Operating Hours When Planning: Can You Drive From Amman To Jerusalem?
The King Hussein Bridge (Allenby Bridge) operates on a structured weekly schedule. Adhering to these hours is essential for managing your transit between Amman and Jerusalem.
| Monday | 08:00–20:00 | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | 08:00–20:00 | |
| Wednesday | 08:00–20:00 | |
| Thursday | 08:00–20:00 | |
| Friday | 08:00–15:00 | |
| Saturday | 08:00–15:00 | |
| Sunday | 08:00–20:00 |
Combining Your Visit: Nearby Destinations When Traveling To Jerusalem And Bethlehem
Travelers entering through the King Hussein Bridge often incorporate Bethlehem into their itinerary due to its proximity to Jerusalem. These destinations are geographically linked, allowing for a structured regional tour once you have completed your transit.
Bethlehem
Located just south of Jerusalem, this city is a common secondary stop for those interested in the Church of the Nativity. It complements a Jerusalem visit by providing historical and cultural context in a single trip.
Mount of Olives
This site offers a panoramic view of the Old City of Jerusalem and is easily accessible when arriving from the border. It serves as a vantage point to orient yourself before entering the city center.
Jericho
Situated between the border crossing and Jerusalem, Jericho is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Many travelers stop here to explore ancient archaeological sites while en route to their final destination.
Check availability
Frequently asked questions about can you drive from amman to jerusalem
Everything you need to know about can you drive from amman to jerusalem