Do I need an international driver's license in Israel?

Although it is not required to have an International Driver’s License, also known as International Driving Permit (IDP) in this foreign country, it is highly recommended by many tourists. It also doesn’t matter whether your IDP is in English or not, you’ll need an IDP to support and translate your document into 12 of the widely used languages worldwide, including Arab.

With an IDP, you don’t need to apply for an Israeli driver’s license like a domestic driver. You only need to carry your valid driver’s license and IDP if you intend to drive there for less than three months according to the United Nations during the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.

To apply for one follow these steps:

1. Click “Apply for IDP.”
2. Prepare your valid driver’s licence from your country of origin, passport-size photo, and credit card.
3. Fill up your application form. This should match whatever is written on your valid driving licence.

Does Israel accept US driver's license?

If you want to drive or rent a motor vehicle from local car rental companies in Israel, it does accept a US driver’s license as long as you have an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to support it. However, having an IDP doesn’t say that you should ignore road safety rules.

Our IDP is recognized in 165+ countries worldwide including the following:

• Cyprus
• Egypt
• Japan
• Jordan
• Switzerland
• Finland
• Iran
• Malta
• Norway
• and other countries.

However, if you’re driving in the country for more than three months, you are advised to take a driving test and get your Israeli driver’s license.

Israel is home to some of the finest tourist attractions located on the southeastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. If you are in for some exciting driving holiday adventure, then you should definitely try to visit some of its most sought-after destinations. With an International Driving License in Israel, you can easily traverse through its overlooking synagogues and mosques while simultaneously sifting through its rich religious influences.

Nazareth

For most tourists, one of the first places that come into mind when visiting Israel is Nazareth. Located in the lower part of the Galilean region, Nazareth has become a holy landmark for pilgrimages and other visiting religious groups. The place has also been widely recognized for its rich cultural and historical stories that have accentuated the experiences of the people. In addition to its religious influences, the place has been widely recognized for its unique architectural elegance.

There are a lot of things to do in Nazareth aside from taking pictures of its famous landmarks. You can plan ahead and visit Mensa Christi Church or St. Gabriel's Church and Mary's Well where vibrant frescoes are inscribed in the ceiling. Whatever it is that suits your preference, there are a lot of things to do in Nazareth.

The best time to visit Nazareth would be between August and June, where the weather is favorable for sightseeing explorations. Correspondingly, it is advised not to go during January and February where the temperature is at its lowest average so that traversal would not be much of a concern.

Golan Heights

The Golan Heights has been famously known for its mountainous terrain and uniquely fascinating landscapes. Moreover, the formation of its natural reserves has captured the essence of its picturesque orientation. It is about 67km (42 miles) from north to south and 25km (15 miles) from east to west and extends to Lebanon and Syria’s borders. If you are into skiing, you should try to visit Hermon Mountain during the winter session to experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

The Golan Heights is located in the northernmost region of the country. It is best to visit the place from December up until March to get the most out of its ski resorts. Subsequently, if you are looking for an exceptional sight of green foliage, then you can visit Golan Heights during the springtime of June. What makes the location an ideal tourist destination? It has prevailing naturally flowing hot mineral springs, frequented by millions of visitors per year.

Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is generally one of the best places to visit in Israel. Packed with resplendent beaches and world-class museums, the capital is particularly one of the highlighted features of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among these things, Tel Aviv is vividly appreciated for the plethora of restaurants that can be found in the central parts. If you want to taste a variety of cuisines and want to have a first-class dining experience, then you should try to visit this place at least once in your travels!

It is best advised to visit Tel Aviv during March through April and September through November. The pleasant temperature and weather conditions compliment beach activities and are mostly favored by visiting tourists who want to have a tan. So, if you are planning to visit Israel, include Tel Aviv in your itinerary and experience the fun-filled activities that the place has to offer!

Dead Sea

With over 430 meters (1,412 feet) below sea level, the Dead sea is one of the endorheic lakes that offers pure outdoor relaxation. With a distinctly captivating view, the place has been one of the first stop destinations for curious travelers and for religious groups. Enjoy the magnificent view of the Dead sea via a road trip.

Aside from sightseeing, you can also dive through the lake and experience the floating fun! Just a reminder, do not stick your head underwater if you don’t want to experience eye redness. Generally, it is best advised to visit the location during the hottest months of August and July. It is at this time of the year that most tourists visit the place.

Jerusalem

The capital has been famously recognized as one of the holiest cities in the world. It has become a landmark of Christianity and Judaism. The grand wall surrounding the old city capital is rich with religious history that has been invariably associated with the holocaust. The city is also divided into four quarters, which comprises the Muslim Quarter, the Armenian Quarter, the Christian Quarter, and the Jewish quarter.

If you are planning to send your relative or friend a letter while you are in Jerusalem, it is important for you to know the zip code in the capital: 9103401. You can check on this information by looking at updates online.

If you are the type of person who is thrilled to know more about a place’s history, you should try to visit Jerusalem. A variety of shops, restaurants, museums, and bars could elaborate on the thriving metropolis. More notably, it is best advised to visit the place during the hottest months of August and June.

Most Important Driving Rules

If you're planning a land trip to explore the various tourist sites in Israel, it's essential that you familiarize yourself with Israel's driving rules. There may be some regulations and restrictions that are different from what you're used to, so taking the time to understand Israel driving rules will prevent any unwanted hitches during your journey. One of the primary driving rules in Israel to note is that driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Additionally, you need to be at least 17 years old to be eligible to drive. By equipping yourself with the knowledge of Israel driving rules, you're paving the way for a smooth, enjoyable exploration of the country's sights.

Know the speed limits

A driver should know that the speed limit for driving in Israel is generally 50 kph inside the city capital. If you are on the interurban roadways, the speed limit is up to 80 kph. Consequently, if you intend to use the freeways, the speed limit could be up to 100kph.

Limit the number of passengers permitted in a vehicle

The number of passengers allowed to be in a car must be completed according to the driver’s license level. For those who have a level 02 Israeli driver's license permit, the number of passengers permitted is up to 8. For those with a level 03 Israeli driver's license, the allowed number of passengers is up to 11 passengers. If you are a tourist, the same concept still applies, assuming that it does not exceed 11 passengers.

Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol

As a foreign driver, you should conform to the said country’s driving rules and regulations. Given this, any tourists who are caught driving under the influence of alcohol will be heavily penalized. The Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) must not exceed 50 micrograms of alcohol in a liter of exhaled breath or 10 mg of alcohol in every 100 ml of blood.

Police officers are given the equal right to request a roadside breath test if they suspect you of driving under the influence of alcohol. If you refuse, you could be imprisoned for up to a year or charged with a fine of 10,000 Shekel. When found guilty of driving under the influence of alcohol, your license can be revoked or suspended for 30 days to 2 years.

Always have a light-reflecting vest with you

The light-reflecting vest serves as your primary protection whenever you encounter some inconvenience. If you happen to have your car broken while driving, you can use the light reflecting vest when exiting the vehicle. Most importantly, this high-visibility warning clothing serves as a signal for drivers, so they may also be aware of your situation. It eliminates the potential threats to health and safety.