Women’s Driving

Question:

Is it permissible for women to drive a car/vehicle in Britain? Can safety or fear of personal security be taken into account in this situation?
(Aminur Rashid, U.K.)

Ans:

Driving is in itself permissible for both men and women. However, since it necessarily entails going outside the house, therefore there are additional conditions for women. These are as follows: a) It should only be in those situations of genuine need where a woman is allowed to leave the house without her Mahram. b) There is no one else (husband or other Mahram) available to drive the car. c) The woman makes sure she is covered completely according to Shar’i requirements. d) She does not wear perfume or jingling jewelry, or otherwise attract attention to herself. If a woman acts in accordance with these conditions, it is permissible for her to drive.

Rabi-ul-Awal-1426