The Ruling on a Woman Riding with a Driver

Q: A woman asks: We are a large family, and we have a driver who takes us to schools, markets, and relatives. What is the ruling on our riding with him inside the city and outside of it, given that there are no men with us in the car?

A: There is no harm in that with the driver if there are two or more women present, and there is no suspicion. So there is nothing wrong with going out with him to school or elsewhere for a need, in a manner that involves no suspicion. If it is possible for a man to be with them, that is better and more correct, but it is not obligatory. Rather, what suffices to remove seclusion is the presence of a second woman or more, or another man besides the driver, provided there is no suspicion. This is because the presence of a mahram (a relative one may not marry) may not be feasible for everyone at all times. However, if the distance is considered travel, it is not permissible for her to travel without a mahram. This is based on the saying of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him): It is agreed upon that it is authentic.
And it is necessary to observe hijab (the covering prescribed for women) and to stay away from the causes of fitnah (trial, discord or temptation) so that no evil occurs between her and him.