Driving in Israel

Overview: Is It Hard to Drive in Israel?

Driving in Israel is generally manageable for international tourists, though it does come with some unique characteristics. Israeli drivers tend to be assertive and drive with purpose, which can initially feel overwhelming to visitors from countries with more relaxed driving cultures. However, with proper preparation and awareness, most tourists find driving in Israel to be a rewarding way to explore the country.

The good news is that Israel has well-maintained roads, clear signage in multiple languages, and excellent GPS coverage. Most rental cars come with automatic transmission, making the experience familiar for American tourists. The key is understanding local driving customs and being prepared for the occasional aggressive driver or complex intersection.

What to Expect

• Road Quality: Generally excellent highways and main roads, with some narrow streets in historic city centers
• Driver Behavior: Assertive but predictable; expect honking as communication rather than aggression
• Language: Road signs appear in Hebrew, Arabic, and English, making navigation straightforward for English speakers

Can Tourists Drive in Israel?

Yes, tourists can absolutely drive in Israel, but you'll need the proper documentation and should understand the requirements before arriving.

License Requirements

To drive legally in Israel as a tourist, you need:

• A valid driver's license from your home country
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) - This is mandatory and must be obtained before traveling
• Minimum age of 21 (some rental companies require 23-25)
• At least one year of driving experience

The International Driving Permit serves as an official translation of your home license. You can obtain one from AAA in the United States or the equivalent automobile association in your country. Processing typically takes 2-6 weeks, so plan ahead.

Insurance Requirements

Car insurance is mandatory in Israel. When you rent from a reputable company like Tamir Rental, basic insurance is typically included, but consider these options:

• Third-party liability: Mandatory and usually included
• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Highly recommended to limit your liability
• Theft protection: Worth considering given urban parking situations
• Personal accident insurance: May be covered by your travel insurance

Documents to Carry

Always keep these documents with you while driving:

• Your original driver's license
• International Driving Permit
• Passport or ID
• Rental agreement and insurance documents
• Emergency contact numbers

Renting a Car in Israel

Choosing Your Vehicle

Most tourists prefer automatic transmission vehicles, which are widely available though slightly more expensive than manual cars. For Israel's diverse terrain, consider:

• Compact cars: Perfect for city driving and parking
• Mid-size vehicles: Good balance for comfort and maneuverability
• SUVs: Useful if planning desert excursions or carrying lots of luggage

Rental Companies and Booking Tips

Israel has both international chains and local companies. Tamir Rental, a family-owned business operating since 1972, offers several advantages for tourists:

• Personal customer service with multilingual staff
• Pickup and return from anywhere in Israel, including Ben Gurion Airport
• Large selection of well-maintained vehicles
• 24/7 roadside assistance with their own towing truck
• Free cancellation policies

Booking Tips:

• Reserve in advance, especially during Jewish holidays and summer months
• Compare total costs including insurance, not just base rates
• Confirm pickup location and any additional fees
• Check fuel policy (full-to-full is standard)

Driving vs. Public Transport

While Israel has decent public transportation, a rental car offers significant advantages:

• Flexibility: Explore remote areas like the Dead Sea or Golan Heights
• Convenience: No need to coordinate with bus schedules
• Comfort: Air conditioning and private space during hot summers
• Efficiency: Direct routes without multiple transfers

However, consider public transport for:

• Central Tel Aviv and Jerusalem exploration
• Shabbat travel (when rental cars sit idle)
• Airport transfers if staying in one city

Driving Rules in Israel

Understanding Israeli traffic laws will keep you safe and avoid fines.

Basic Rules

• Drive on the right side of the road
• Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers
• Headlights must be on at all times, even during daylight
• No right turn on red unless specifically indicated by a sign
• Yield to traffic coming from the right at unmarked intersections

Speed Limits

Israeli speed limits are strictly enforced with cameras:

• Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
• Rural roads: 80-90 km/h (50-56 mph)
• Highways: 110 km/h (68 mph) on most sections, 120 km/h (75 mph) on some newer highways

Speed cameras are common, and fines can be substantial. GPS apps like Waze (which originated in Israel) provide excellent speed camera alerts.

Cell Phone and Alcohol Rules

• Hands-free only: Cell phone use while driving requires a hands-free device
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.05% (lower than many countries)
• Zero tolerance: For drivers under 24 or with less than 5 years experience

Navigation, Road Signs, and GPS

Languages and Signage

Israeli road signs display information in three languages: Hebrew, Arabic, and English. Major destinations and highway signs always include English, making navigation straightforward for English-speaking tourists. However, some local street signs in older neighborhoods might only show Hebrew and Arabic.

GPS and Navigation Apps

Waze is the preferred navigation app in Israel (it was invented there). It provides:

• Real-time traffic updates
• Speed camera alerts
• User-reported hazards and police presence
• Alternative routes during congestion

Google Maps also works well and may be more familiar to some tourists. Both apps work offline if you download maps in advance.

Common Road Signs to Know

• Blue signs indicate highways and major routes
• Green signs show local destinations
• Brown signs point to tourist attractions and historical sites
• Yellow signs indicate temporary construction or detours

Roundabouts, Traffic Lights, and Intersections

Roundabouts

Israeli roundabouts follow European conventions:

• Yield to traffic already in the roundabout
• Enter when safe and maintain your lane
• Signal when exiting
• Be extra cautious as some Israeli drivers don't always signal properly

Traffic Light Behavior

Israeli traffic lights have some unique characteristics:

• Flashing yellow lights: Common at night, treat as a yield sign
• Green arrow with red light: You may proceed in the direction of the arrow
• Pedestrian signals: Often have countdown timers

Intersection Etiquette

Israelis tend to be assertive at intersections. Key tips:

• Don't hesitate once you've committed to a turn
• Be prepared for drivers to squeeze into small gaps
• Watch for motorcycles and scooters filtering between cars

Toll Roads and Highway Rules

Israel has several toll roads that can significantly speed up your journey.

Major Toll Roads

• Highway 6 (Cross-Israel Highway): Runs north-south through central Israel
• Highway 1 (Jerusalem-Tel Aviv): Certain sections near Jerusalem
• Carmel Tunnels: In Haifa area

How Tolls Work

Israel uses an electronic toll collection system:

• No toll booths: Cameras photograph license plates automatically
• Rental car billing: Most rental companies handle toll payments and add them to your final bill
• Visitor passes: Some rental companies provide unlimited toll passes for a flat daily fee

Tolls typically range from 5-15 NIS (about $1.50-$4.50) per segment, and can save significant time during peak hours.

Parking in Israel

Understanding Israel's parking system is crucial for stress-free city exploration.

Parking Zone Colors

Israeli curbs are painted in different colors to indicate parking rules:

Blue and White Zones:

• Paid parking required during specific hours (usually 8 AM - 7 PM, Sunday-Thursday)
• Free parking at night, Fridays after 2 PM, and Saturdays
• Maximum stay typically 2-3 hours

Red and White Zones:

• No parking at any time
• Immediate towing risk

Yellow Curbs:

• Loading zones or bus stops
• No parking for private vehicles

Gray Zones:

• Free parking with time limits (usually 15 minutes to 1 hour)

Payment Methods

Two main apps dominate Israeli parking payments:

• Pango: Most popular, available in English
• Cellopark: Alternative option

Both apps require:

• Download and registration
• Credit card linking
• License plate number entry
• Zone number input (displayed on nearby signs)

Cash payments are possible at some older parking meters, but apps are more convenient and often slightly cheaper.

Shabbat Parking

From Friday evening to Saturday evening, most paid parking becomes free. However, be cautious about parking in religious neighborhoods where driving itself may be frowned upon during Shabbat.

Where You Should and Shouldn't Drive

Areas to Avoid

While most of Israel is safe for tourist driving, some areas require extra caution or should be avoided entirely:

Border Areas:

• Gaza Strip border: Restricted access, military zones
• Lebanese border: Some roads require military permits
• Syrian border (Golan Heights): Stick to main tourist routes

West Bank Considerations:

• Area A: Palestinian Authority control, generally off-limits to Israeli rental cars
• Area B and C: Check with your rental company about coverage
• Major sites like Bethlehem: Often accessible but verify insurance coverage

Military Zones and Checkpoints

You may encounter military checkpoints, especially near borders or sensitive areas. When approaching:

• Have your passport and rental documents ready
• Be patient and polite
• Don't photograph military personnel or installations
• Follow all instructions from security personnel

Jerusalem Driving Tips

Jerusalem presents unique challenges:

• Old City: Mostly pedestrian-only, park outside and walk
• Narrow streets: Historic neighborhoods have very tight roads
• Religious considerations: Be respectful during Shabbat and holidays
• Parking: Extremely limited, use public lots and walk to destinations

Cyclists, E-scooters, and Pedestrians

Israeli cities, particularly Tel Aviv, have growing cycling and e-scooter populations.

Urban Awareness

• Tel Aviv: Extensive bike lanes and numerous e-scooters
• Dedicated lanes: Respect bicycle infrastructure
• Intersection caution: Watch for cyclists running red lights
• Pedestrian crossings: Not all pedestrians wait for signals

Safety Tips

• Check mirrors frequently in urban areas
• Leave extra space when passing cyclists
• Be especially careful during evening hours when visibility is reduced
• Watch for e-scooters emerging from sidewalks

Fuel Stations and Gas Types

Finding Fuel

Israel has numerous fuel stations, with major chains including:

• Paz: Most common, good coverage nationwide
• Delek: Second largest chain
• Sonol: Regional presence
• Ten: Discount chain

Service Options

• Full-service: Attendant fills your tank (small tip expected)
• Self-service: Increasingly common, usually slightly cheaper
• Payment: Credit cards widely accepted, some stations cash-only

Fuel Types

• 95 Octane: Standard unleaded gasoline for most rental cars
• Diesel: Common for larger vehicles, clearly marked
• Premium: Available but rarely necessary for rental cars

Fuel prices in Israel are higher than North America but comparable to European levels.

What to Do in an Emergency

Emergency Numbers

• Police: 100
• Ambulance/Medical: 101
• Fire Department: 102
• General Emergency: 112 (works from any phone)

Roadside Assistance

Most rental companies provide 24/7 roadside assistance. Tamir Rental includes this service and operates their own towing truck, meaning faster response times than companies that outsource this service.

Accident Procedures

If involved in an accident:

1. Ensure safety: Move to a safe location if possible
2. Call police: Required for any accident with injuries or significant damage
3. Document everything: Photos, insurance information, witness contacts
4. Contact rental company: Report the incident immediately
5. Don't admit fault: Let insurance companies and police determine responsibility

Medical Emergencies

Israel has excellent emergency medical services. Tourist health insurance is recommended, but emergency treatment is provided regardless of ability to pay.

Shabbat and Holiday Driving

Shabbat Considerations

From Friday evening to Saturday evening:

• Reduced traffic: Fewer cars on the road
• Closed services: Gas stations, restaurants, and shops mostly closed
• Free parking: Most paid parking zones become free
• Religious areas: Avoid driving through ultra-Orthodox neighborhoods

Jewish Holidays

Major holidays like Yom Kippur see complete cessation of traffic in Jewish areas:

• Plan ahead: Fill up gas tank and stock supplies
• Check calendars: Holiday dates vary each year
• Arab areas: Remain open during Jewish holidays

Navigation Tips

GPS apps account for Shabbat and holiday schedules, adjusting routes and business hours automatically.

Travel Insurance and Car Insurance

Rental Car Insurance

Standard rental packages typically include:

• Third-party liability: Mandatory coverage
• Basic theft protection: Limited coverage
• Collision damage waiver: Reduces but doesn't eliminate liability

Recommended Add-ons

• Super CDW: Eliminates most deductibles
• Personal effects coverage: Protects belongings in the car
• Roadside assistance plus: Enhanced coverage for remote areas

Travel Insurance

Your personal travel insurance may cover:

• Medical expenses while driving
• Trip interruption due to car problems
• Personal liability beyond vehicle coverage

Check your existing coverage before purchasing additional insurance.

Police Checkpoints and Military Areas

What to Expect

Checkpoints are routine in Israel and may occur:

• Near border areas
• During security alerts
• Random highway checks
• Entering certain cities or areas

Proper Behavior

• Approach slowly and follow instructions
• Have documents ready: Passport, license, rental agreement
• Be patient and polite
• Don't photograph checkpoints or personnel
• Answer questions honestly but keep responses brief

ID Requirements

Always carry your passport while driving. Israeli law requires identification at all times, and this is strictly enforced for tourists.

Driving Distances and Travel Times

Israel's compact size makes it perfect for road trips, but traffic and terrain can affect travel times significantly.

Common Tourist Routes

Tel Aviv to Jerusalem:

• Distance: 65 km (40 miles)
• Time: 1-1.5 hours (varies greatly with traffic)
• Best route: Highway 1 (toll sections available)

Jerusalem to Dead Sea:

• Distance: 85 km (53 miles) to Ein Gedi
• Time: 1.5 hours
• Route: Highway 1 east, then Highway 90 south

Tel Aviv to Haifa:

• Distance: 95 km (59 miles)
• Time: 1.5 hours
• Route: Highway 2 (coastal route) or Highway 6 (faster, tolls)

Central Israel to Eilat:

• Distance: 350 km (217 miles) from Tel Aviv
• Time: 4-5 hours
• Route: Highway 6 south to Highway 40

Traffic Considerations

• Rush hours: 7-9 AM and 4-7 PM in major cities
• Friday afternoons: Heavy traffic as people leave cities for weekend
• Sunday mornings: Return traffic to cities
• Highway 6: Often faster despite tolls during peak hours

Scenic Stops and Detours

Consider these worthwhile stops:

• Latrun: Tank museum and memorial between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem
• Ein Gedi: Oasis and nature reserve on Dead Sea drive
• Rosh Hanikra: Grottos near Lebanese border
• Banias: Waterfall and nature reserve in Golan Heights

Tips for American and European Drivers

For American Drivers

• Roundabouts: More common than in most US states
• Narrow roads: European-style streets in older areas
• Aggressive style: More assertive than typical American driving
• Metric system: Distances in kilometers, speed in km/h
• Fuel costs: Significantly higher than US prices

For European Drivers

• Familiar systems: Similar road signs and driving conventions
• Parking apps: Different from European systems but same concept
• Traffic density: Higher than most European countries despite smaller size
• Desert driving: Unique challenges if visiting southern Israel

Universal Tips

• Stay alert: Israeli drivers rarely hesitate or second-guess decisions
• Use GPS: Traffic patterns change rapidly with construction and events
• Plan for delays: Buffer extra time for important appointments
• Learn key Hebrew words: "Todah" (thank you) and "Slicha" (excuse me/sorry) go a long way

Driving with Kids in Israel

Car Seat Requirements

Israeli law requires appropriate child restraints:

• Infants (0-1 year): Rear-facing car seats
• Toddlers (1-4 years): Forward-facing car seats with harnesses
• Children (4-8 years): Booster seats
• Age 8+: Regular seatbelts if over 145cm tall

Rental Considerations

Most rental companies provide car seats for an additional fee. Reserve in advance, especially during peak season. Tamir Rental includes child seats as part of their accessory service, preparing your vehicle with requested items before pickup.

Family-Friendly Routes

• Coastal drives: Beautiful scenery with frequent stops
• Dead Sea area: Easy driving with dramatic landscapes
• Galilee region: Rolling hills and historical sites
• Avoid: Complex urban centers with young children

Using Electric Cars in Israel

Israel's electric vehicle infrastructure is expanding rapidly.

Charging Network

• Major cities: Good coverage of charging stations
• Highways: Charging points at service centers
• Rural areas: Limited but growing
• Hotels: Many now offer charging facilities

Rental Availability

Electric vehicles are increasingly available from major rental companies, though selection may be limited. Consider for:

• Urban driving: Excellent for city exploration
• Environmental concerns: Reduced carbon footprint
• Cost savings: Lower fuel costs for longer rentals

Planning Considerations

• Range anxiety: Plan charging stops for longer trips
• Charging time: Factor in 30-60 minutes for fast charging
• Backup plans: Know locations of multiple charging stations

Conclusion

Driving in Israel opens up incredible opportunities to explore this diverse and fascinating country at your own pace. While Israeli driving culture may seem aggressive initially, it's generally predictable once you understand the local customs. With proper preparation, the right rental company, and awareness of local rules and customs, driving in Israel can be both safe and rewarding.

Key takeaways for successful driving in Israel:

• Obtain your International Driving Permit before traveling
• Choose a reputable rental company with good local support
• Download Waze for navigation and traffic updates
• Understand parking systems and payment apps
• Stay alert and drive confidently but defensively
• Respect local customs, especially regarding Shabbat and religious areas
• Keep all required documents with you at all times

Whether you're exploring ancient Jerusalem, relaxing by the Dead Sea, hiking in the Golan Heights, or enjoying Tel Aviv's beaches, having your own transportation provides the freedom to discover Israel's incredible diversity. With companies like Tamir Rental offering personalized service, multilingual support, and reliable vehicles, international tourists can focus on enjoying their Israeli adventure rather than worrying about transportation logistics.

Safe travels, and enjoy discovering the many wonders that Israel has to offer!