Story perspectives

Iran Grants Women Motorcycle Licenses After Protests

2/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Iran has authorized women to obtain motorcycle licenses, ending years of ambiguity.
First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref signed a February 3 resolution requiring traffic police to provide training and conduct supervised exams for female applicants.
Previously, authorities refused to issue licenses to women, leaving them vulnerable in accidents.
The policy change followed protests over economic issues and the 2022 death of Mahsa Amini that fueled demands for greater freedoms.

History

Historical Context

In June 2018, Saudi Arabia lifted its ban on women driving, a significant reform initiated by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as part of the Vision 2030 initiative aimed at enhancing women's rights. This followed decades of activism, including protests dating back to 1990. Iran's recent decision to allow women to obtain motorcycle licenses reflects a broader regional trend towards gender equality, highlighting the growing demand for women's rights in the Middle East.

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Story summary

Iran has authorized women to obtain motorcycle licenses, ending years of ambiguity.
First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref signed a February 3 resolution requiring traffic police to provide training and conduct supervised exams for female applicants.
Previously, authorities refused to issue licenses to women, leaving them vulnerable in accidents.
The policy change followed protests over economic issues and the 2022 death of Mahsa Amini that fueled demands for greater freedoms.

1 / 2