Iran formally allows women to ride motorcycles
Iran has formally allowed women to obtain licences to ride motorcycles, marking a significant shift after years of legal uncertainty surrounding female riders, local media reported on Wednesday.
Although Iran’s traffic laws had never explicitly banned women from riding motorcycles or scooters, authorities had routinely declined to issue licences to female applicants. This left many women exposed to legal risks, as they were often held liable in accidents even when they were victims.
READ ALSO: Iranian President confirms talks with U.S., insists on “fair, equitable negotiations”
The development follows the signing of a new resolution by Iran’s First Vice President, Mohammad Reza Aref, on Tuesday. The measure, approved by the Iranian cabinet in late January, aims to clarify the country’s traffic regulations, according to the Ilna news agency.
Under the resolution, traffic police are now required to provide practical riding training for women, conduct examinations under direct police supervision, and issue motorcycle driver’s licences to successful female applicants.
The decision comes against the backdrop of widespread protests in Iran, which initially began over economic concerns before escalating into nationwide anti-government demonstrations in recent months. Tehran has acknowledged that more than 3,000 people died during the unrest, while maintaining that most of the victims were security personnel and bystanders.
READ ALSO: Iran, Beware the Fangs of January, the Scourge of February, the Ides of March (2), by Hassan Gimba
Since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Iranian women have faced numerous social and legal restrictions, including strict dress codes that complicate motorcycle riding. Women are required to cover their hair with headscarves and wear modest, loose-fitting clothing in public.
Despite these limitations, the number of women riding motorcycles has risen sharply in recent years, particularly after the 2022 death of Mahsa Amini, who died in custody after being arrested for allegedly violating dress code rules. Her death sparked nationwide protests led largely by women demanding greater personal freedoms.
READ ALSO: Iran’s top military body condemns EU move against IRGC
The new licensing policy is seen as a step toward addressing long-standing inequalities faced by women in Iran’s public spaces.
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp:
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com
