Driver’s License

Eligibility

• Is within 5 years of their Aliyah date (as per their teudat oleh)
• Hold a valid full-validity foreign driver’s license
• Can prove 5 consecutive years of driving history on a full-validity driver’s license before Aliyah date (as per teudat oleh)
• Is under 75 years old

Process

Step One – Complete a Tofes Yarok

The tofes yarok is a medical questionnaire required in order to obtain a driver’s license in Israel.  

It can be completed online here.  The form can be filled out in English. 

Note

If one answered “yes” to any of the medical questions, upload a letter from a doctor stating you are “fit to drive/כשיר לנהוג”. If there is no response within two weeks, email support@chaimvchessed.com for further assistance.

Tip

If you do not have internet access, many opticians (see step 2) can complete the online form for a small fee.

Step Two – Visit a licensed optician

Go to an optician approved by Misrad Harishui. Bring your teudat zehut. The optometrist will photograph the applicant and conduct an eye exam.  There is a fee for the eye exam.

For a list of optometrists throughout Israel who are approved by Misrad Harishui, see here. 

It is recommended to call ahead to confirm the optometrist is in.

Tip

The following locations are near the offices of Misrad Harishui in Jerusalem:

·   Merkaz HaOptica, Yad Haruzim 18, Achim Yisrael Mall, Talpiot: 02-6416656

·   Optica Halperin, Malcha Mall, 02-6306402

Step Three – Visit Misrad Harishui

An appointment must be made in advance online on govisit.gov.il or by calling *4515.

Bring originals plus a printed copy of each item:

• Teudat zehut
• Teudat Oleh
• Valid foreign driver’s license, plus a copy of both the front and back
• Driving abstract (record) showing at least 5 consecutive years of full-validity driving experience, prior to date of Aliyah as appears on teudat oleh.  One can present old licenses in lieu of a driving abstract. If your present valid license shows five years validity before Aliyah, a driving abstract is not needed at all.

Receiving your license

Misrad Harishui will issue a temporary license on the spot which is NOT valid until paid for. 

Pay online, at a licensing kiosk (see www.gov.il for a list of locations) or by calling *5678.

The fee is determined based on the length of validity of the license, approximately 40 NIS per year. 

Once paid, one may drive with any valid photo ID. One is not required to hold the actual license card in order to drive in Israel.

The permanent plastic license will be mailed to the address on file in The Population Authority (Misrad Hapnim) within 4-6 weeks.  If not received within 45 days, call 077-998-5095 .  If more than 45 days passed since date of payment, see below for details on obtaining a replacement card.

Eligibility

• Is within 5 years of entry to Israel, after having been abroad for six consecutive months
• Hold a valid full-validity foreign driver’s license
• Can prove 5 consecutive years of driving history on a full-validity driver’s license before entry date
• Is under 75 years old

Process

Step One – Complete a Tofes Yarok

The tofes yarok is a medical questionnaire required in order to obtain a driver’s license in Israel.  

It can be completed online here.  The form can be filled out in English. 

Note

If one answered “yes” to any of the medical questions, upload a letter from a doctor stating you are “fit to drive/כשיר לנהוג”. If there is no response within two weeks, email support@chaimvchessed.com for further assistance.

Tip

If you do not have internet access, many opticians (see step 2) can complete the online form for a small fee.

Step Two – Visit a licensed optician

Go to an optician approved by Misrad Harishui. Bring your teudat zehut. The optometrist will photograph the applicant and conduct an eye exam.  There is a fee for the eye exam.

For a list of optometrists throughout Israel who are approved by Misrad Harishui, see here. 

It is recommended to call ahead to confirm the optometrist is in.

Tip

The following locations are near the offices of Misrad Harishui in Jerusalem:

·   Merkaz HaOptica, Yad Haruzim 18, Achim Yisrael Mall, Talpiot: 02-6416656

·   Optica Halperin, Malcha Mall, 02-6306402

Step Three – Visit Misrad Harishui

An appointment must be made in advance online on govisit.gov.il or by calling *4515.

Bring originals plus a printed copy of each item:

• Teudat zehut
• Valid foreign driver’s license, plus a copy of both the front and back
• Daf knisot viyitziot from The Population Authority (Misrad Hapnim)
• Driving abstract (record) showing at least 5 consecutive years of full-validity driving experience, prior to date of entry to Israel.  One can present old licenses in lieu of a driving abstract. If your present valid license shows five years validity before entry, a driving abstract is not needed at all.

Receiving your license

Misrad Harishui will issue a temporary license on the spot which is NOT valid until paid for. 

Pay online, at a licensing kiosk (see www.gov.il for a list of locations) or by calling *5678.

The fee is determined based on the length of validity of the license, approximately 40 NIS per year. 

Once paid, one may drive with any valid photo ID. One is not required to hold the actual license card in order to drive in Israel.

The permanent plastic license will be mailed to the address on file in The Population Authority (Misrad Hapnim) within 4-6 weeks.  If not received within 45 days, call 077-998-5095 .  If more than 45 days passed since date of payment, See below for details on obtaining a replacement card.

Eligibility

• The driver holds an A-category visa, and is within 5 years of entry to Israel, after having been abroad for six consecutive months
• The driver holds a valid full-validity foreign driver’s license
• The driver can prove 5 consecutive years of driving history on a full-validity driver’s license before entry date
• The driver Is under 75 years old

Process

Step One – Obtaining an ID number (89) 

Foreign residents who do not possess a teudat zehut number must obtain an ID number from Misrad Harishui. This number will start with 89 and will be required in all dealings with Misrad Hatachbura, including driver’s licenses and car purchase.

Visit a branch of Misrad Harishui , no appointment needed, and request an 89 ID number. 

Present the clerk with your foreign passport and visa.  You will be given a paper with your 89 number.

Note

Be sure the document containing your 89 ID number bears an official stamp from the Misrad Harishui.

See here to find the Misrad Harishui nearest to you. 

Step Two- Complete a Tofes Yarok

The tofes yarok is a medical questionnaire required in order to obtain a driver’s license in Israel.  

It can be completed online here.  The form can be filled out in English.  Foreigners should use the number they received from Misrad Harishui (beginning with 89) as their ID number on the form.

Note

If one answered “yes” to any of the medical questions, upload a letter from a doctor stating you are “fit to drive/כשיר לנהוג”. If there is no response within two weeks, email support@chaimvchessed.com for further assistance.

Tip

If you do not have internet access, many opticians (see step 2) can complete the online form for a small fee.

Step Three – Visit a licensed optician

Go to an optician approved by Misrad Harishui. Bring your foreign passport and  89 number. The optometrist will photograph the applicant and conduct an eye exam.  There is a fee for the eye exam.

For a list of optometrists throughout Israel who are approved by Misrad Harishui, see here. 

It is recommended to call ahead to confirm the optometrist is in.

Tip

The following locations are near the offices of Misrad Harishui in Jerusalem:

·   Merkaz HaOptica, Yad Haruzim 18, Achim Yisrael Mall, Talpiot: 02-6416656

·   Optica Halperin, Malcha Mall, 02-6306402

Step Four – Visit Misrad Harishui

An appointment must be made in advance online on govisit.gov.il or by calling *4515.

Bring originals plus a printed copy of each item:

• Passport and valid visa
• Valid foreign driver’s license, plus a copy of both the front and back
• Daf knisot viyitziot from The Population Authority (Misrad Hapnim)
• Driving abstract (record) showing at least 5 consecutive years of full-validity driving experience, prior to date of entry to Israel.  One can present old licenses in lieu of a driving abstract. If your present valid license shows five years validity before entry, a driving abstract is not needed at all.

Receiving your license

Misrad Harishui will issue a temporary license on the spot which is NOT valid until paid for. 

Bring the temporary license to any post office to pay the fee (appointment required) or call *5678 to pay by credit card.

The fee is determined based on the length of validity of the license, approximately 40 NIS per year. 

Once paid, one may drive with any valid photo ID (foreign passport) and 89 number. One is not required to hold the actual license card in order to drive in Israel.

The permanent plastic license will be mailed to the address on file within 4-6 weeks.  If not received within 45 days, call 077-998-5095 .  If more than 45 days passed since date of payment, see below for details on obtaining a replacement card.

Visa holders usually are issued a license valid for five years.

Eligibility

• Is within 5 years of their Aliyah date, as per their teudat oleh
• Holds a valid full validity foreign driver’s license
• Has proof of between 2-5 consecutive years of driving on a full-validity driver’s license before Aliyah date, as indicated on their teudat oleh. 
• The driver is older than 16 years and 9 months and under 75 years old* and has failed a practical conversion test no more than once in the past  

Process

Step One – Complete a Tofes Yarok

The tofes yarok is a medical questionnaire required in order to obtain a driver’s license in Israel.  

It can be completed online here.  The form can be filled out in English. 

Note

If one answered “yes” to any of the medical questions, upload a letter from a doctor stating you are “fit to drive/כשיר לנהוג”. If there is no response within two weeks, email support@chaimvchessed.com for further assistance.

Tip

If you do not have internet access, many opticians (see step 2) can complete the online form for a small fee.

Step 2

Visit a licensed optician

Go to an optician approved by Misrad Harishui. Bring your teudat zehut. The optometrist will photograph the applicant and conduct an eye exam. There is a fee for the eye exam.

For a list of optometrists throughout Israel who are approved by Misrad Harishui, see here. 

It is recommended to call ahead to confirm the optometrist is in.

Tip

The following locations are near the offices of Misrad Harishui in Jerusalem:

·   Merkaz HaOptica, Yad Haruzim 18, Achim Yisrael Mall, Talpiot: 02-6416656

·   Optica Halperin, Malcha Mall, 02-6306402

Step Three – Visit Misrad Harishui

An appointment for the nearest Misrad Harishui must be made in advance online on govisit.gov.il or by calling *4515.

Bring along all required documents, originals and printed copies:

• Teudat zehut
• Teudat Oleh
• Valid full validity foreign license, plus a copy of both the front and back
• Driving abstract (record) showing between 2-5 consecutive years of full-validity driving experience, prior to date of Aliyah as appears on the teudat oleh.  One can present old licenses in lieu of a driving abstract. If your present valid license shows between 2-5 years validity before Aliyah, a driving abstract is not needed at all.

The clerk will determine your specific requirements for converting your foreign license.  This should include at least one driving lesson and a practical driving test.

• Driving Lessons – One is required to take a minimum of one lesson with a certified driving instructor before taking a driving test. Contact an instructor to schedule a lesson and specify whether you drive an automatic or manual shift car.

At the lesson, present your teudat zehut or foreign passport, visa and temporary ID number. The instructor will guide you through any additional forms. After the lesson, the teacher may recommend further lessons. 

• Driving Test – The driving instructor will schedule a driving test (mivchan shlita / mivchan ma’asi) which is taken in the instructor’s car. A lesson is typically scheduled just prior to the test.

Two fees must be paid beforehand: one for the test (agrat mivchan, payable online) and one for use of the instructor’s car. The instructor will provide all necessary forms and payment information in advance.

After the test, one will be notified by phone the same day whether they passed. 

If one fails, they may continue lessons until the instructor deems them ready for a retest. 

Receiving your license

Israeli citizens will either receive their temporary license by email or can print it at an Automated Licensing Machine.

Pay online, at a licensing kiosk (see www.gov.il for a list of locations) or by calling *5678.

The fee is determined based on the length of validity of the license, approximately 40 NIS per year. 

Once paid, one may drive with any valid photo ID. One is not required to hold the actual license card in order to drive in Israel.

The permanent plastic license will be mailed to the address on file in The Population Authority (Misrad Hapnim) within 4-6 weeks.  If not received within 45 days, call 077-998-5095 .  If more than 45 days passed since date of payment, see below for details on obtaining a replacement card.

Eligibility

• A toshav chozer – within 5 years of entry to Israel
• The driver holds a valid full validity foreign driver’s license
• The driver has proof of between 2-5 consecutive years of driving on a full-validity driver’s license before last entry to Israel, after having been abroad for six consecutive months or more.
• The driver is older than 16 years and 9 months and under 75 years old* and has failed a practical conversion test no more than once in the past  

Process

Step One – Tofes Yarok

The tofes yarok is a medical questionnaire required in order to obtain a driver’s license in Israel.  

It can be completed online here.  The form can be filled out in English. 

Note

If one answered “yes” to any of the medical questions, upload a letter from a doctor stating you are “fit to drive/כשיר לנהוג”. If there is no response within two weeks, email support@chaimvchessed.com for further assistance.

Tip

If you do not have internet access, many opticians (see step 2) can complete the online form for a small fee.

Step 2 – Visit a licensed optician

Go to an optician approved by Misrad Harishui. Bring your teudat zehut. The optometrist will photograph the applicant and conduct an eye exam. There is a fee for the eye exam.

For a list of optometrists throughout Israel who are approved by Misrad Harishui, see here. 

It is recommended to call ahead to confirm the optometrist is in.

Tip

The following locations are near the offices of Misrad Harishui in Jerusalem:

·   Merkaz HaOptica, Yad Haruzim 18, Achim Yisrael Mall, Talpiot: 02-6416656

·   Optica Halperin, Malcha Mall, 02-6306402

Step Three – Visit Misrad Harishui

An appointment for the nearest Misrad Harishui must be made in advance online on govisit.gov.il or by calling *4515. 

Bring along all necessary documents (originals and printed copies):

• Teudat zehut
• Valid foreign driver’s license, plus a copy of both the front and back
• Daf knisot viyitziot from The Population Authority (Misrad Hapnim)
• Driving abstract (record) showing between 2-5 consecutive years of full-validity driving experience, prior to date of entry to Israel.  One can present old licenses in lieu of a driving abstract. If your present valid license shows at least two years validity before entry, a driving abstract is not needed at all.

The clerk will determine your specific requirements for converting your foreign license.  This should include the following:

1. Driving Lessons – One is required to take a minimum of one lesson with a certified driving instructor before taking a driving test. Contact an instructor to schedule a lesson and specify whether you drive an automatic or manual shift car.

At the lesson, present your teudat zehut. The instructor will guide you through any additional forms. After the lesson, the teacher may recommend further lessons.  

Tip

Each country has unique driving expectations, so even skilled drivers benefit from a local lesson to understand Israeli standards.

2. Driving Test – The driving instructor will schedule a driving test (mivchan shlita / mivchan ma’asi) which is taken in the instructor’s car. A lesson is typically scheduled just prior to the test.

Two fees must be paid beforehand: one for the test (agrat mivchan, payable online) and one for use of the instructor’s car. The instructor will provide all necessary forms and payment information in advance.

After the test, one will be notified by phone the same day whether they passed. 

If one fails, they may continue lessons until the instructor deems them ready for a retest. 

Receiving Your License

Israeli citizens will either receive their temporary license by email or can print it at an Automated Licensing Machine.

Pay online, on an automated licensing machine (see here for a list of locations) or by calling *5678.

The fee is based on the license validity period and is approximately 40 NIS per year. 

The temporary license only becomes valid after payment. 

Note

Once paid, one does not need the actual license card to drive in Israel, provided they carry valid photo ID. 

The permanent license will be mailed to the address listed with The Population Authority (Misrad Hapnim) within 4-6 weeks.  If not received within 45 days, call 077-998-5095.  If more than 45 days passed since date of payment, see below for details on obtaining a replacement card.  

*Individuals over 75 years old, will need to undergo an eye exam and doctor’s exam, see here. 

Eligibility

• The driver holds an A-category visa holder – within 5 years of entry to Israel
• The driver holds a valid full validity foreign driver’s license
• The driver has proof of between 2-5 consecutive years of driving on a full-validity driver’s license before entry date. These years must be prior to their last entry to Israel, after having been abroad for six consecutive months or more.
• The driver is older than 16 years and 9 months and under 75 years old* and has failed a practical conversion test no more than once in the past  

Process

Step One – Obtaining an ID number (89) 

Foreign residents who do not possess a teudat zehut number must obtain an ID number from Misrad Harishui. This number will start with 89 and will be required in all dealings with Misrad Hatachbura, including driver’s licenses and car purchase.

Visit a branch of Misrad Harishui , no appointment needed, and request an 89 ID number. 

Present the clerk with your foreign passport and visa.  You will be given a paper with your 89 number.

Note

Be sure the document containing your 89 ID number bears an official stamp from the Misrad Harishui.

See here to find the Misrad Harishui nearest to you. 

Step Two – Complete a Tofes Yarok

The tofes yarok is a medical questionnaire required in order to obtain a driver’s license in Israel.  

It can be completed online here.  The form can be filled out in English.  Foreigners should use the number they received from Misrad Harishui (beginning with 89) as their ID number on the form.

Note

If one answered “yes” to any of the medical questions, upload a letter from a doctor stating you are “fit to drive/כשיר לנהוג”. If there is no response within two weeks, email support@chaimvchessed.com for further assistance.

Tip

If you do not have internet access, many opticians (see step 2) can complete the online form for a small fee.

Step Three – Visit a licensed optician

Go to an optician approved by Misrad Harishui. Bring your teudat zehut or foreign passport and 89 number. The optometrist will photograph the applicant and conduct an eye exam.  There is a fee for the eye exam.

For a list of optometrists throughout Israel who are approved by Misrad Harishui, see here. 

It is recommended to call ahead to confirm the optometrist is in.

Tip

The following locations are near the offices of Misrad Harishui in Jerusalem:

·   Merkaz HaOptica, Yad Haruzim 18, Achim Yisrael Mall, Talpiot: 02-6416656

·   Optica Halperin, Malcha Mall, 02-6306402

Step Four – Visit Misrad Harishui

An appointment must be made in advance online on govisit.gov.il or by calling *4515. Book using your 89 number as your ID number.

Bring originals plus a printed copy of each item:

• Passport and valid visa (printed copy)
• Valid foreign driver’s license, plus a copy of both the front and back
• Daf knisot viyitziot from The Population Authority (Misrad Hapnim)
• Driving abstract (record) showing at least 5 consecutive years of full-validity driving experience, prior to date of entry to Israel.  One can present old licenses in lieu of a driving abstract. If your present valid license shows five years validity before entry, a driving abstract is not needed at all.

The clerk will determine your specific requirements for converting your foreign license. This should include the following:

1. Driving Lessons – One is required to take a minimum of one lesson with a certified driving instructor before taking a driving test. Contact an instructor to schedule a lesson and specify whether you drive an automatic or manual shift car.

At the lesson, present your foreign passport, visa and temporary ID number. The instructor will guide you through any additional forms. After the lesson, the teacher may recommend further lessons.  

Tip

Each country has unique driving expectations, so even skilled drivers benefit from a local lesson to understand Israeli standards.

2. Driving Test – The driving instructor will schedule a driving test (mivchan shlita / mivchan ma’asi) which is taken in the instructor’s car. A lesson is typically scheduled just prior to the test.

Two fees must be paid beforehand: one for the test (agrat mivchan, payable online) and one for use of the instructor’s car. The instructor will provide all necessary forms and payment information in advance.

After the test, one will be notified by phone the same day whether they passed. 

If one fails, they may continue lessons until the instructor deems them ready for a retest. 

Receiving your license

Misrad Harishui will issue a temporary license on the spot which is NOT valid until paid for. 

Bring the temporary license to any post office to pay the fee (appointment required) or call *5678.

The fee is determined based on the length of validity of the license, approximately 40 NIS per year. 

Once paid, one may drive with any valid photo ID (foreign passport) and 89 number. One is not required to hold the actual license card in order to drive in Israel.

The permanent plastic license will be mailed to the address on file within 4-6 weeks.  If not received within 45 days, call 077-998-5095 .  If more than 45 days passed since date of payment, see below for details on obtaining a replacement card.

Visa holders usually are issued a license valid for five years.

Eligibility

• An Oleh who has a valid full-validity license but more than 5 years have passed since their Aliyah date, or who made Aliyah within 5 years but has less than two years of driving history on a full-validity license.

Process

Step One – Complete a Tofes Yarok

The tofes yarok is a medical questionnaire required in order to obtain a driver’s license in Israel.  

It can be completed online here.  The form can be filled out in English. 

Note

If one answered “yes” to any of the medical questions, upload a letter from a doctor stating you are “fit to drive/כשיר לנהוג”. If there is no response within two weeks, email support@chaimvchessed.com for further assistance.

Tip

If you do not have internet access, many opticians (see step 2) can complete the online form for a small fee.

Step Two – Visit a licensed optician

Go to an optician approved by Misrad Harishui. Bring your teudat zehut. The optometrist will photograph the applicant and conduct an eye exam.  There is a fee for the eye exam.

For a list of optometrists throughout Israel who are approved by Misrad Harishui, see here. 

Tip

The following locations are near the offices of Misrad Harishui in Jerusalem:

·   Merkaz HaOptica, Yad Haruzim 18, Achim Yisrael Mall, Talpiot: 02-6416656

·   Optica Halperin, Malcha Mall, 02-6306402

Tip

It is recommended to call ahead to confirm the optometrist is in.

Step Three – Visit Misrad Harishui

Book an appointment for the nearest Misrad Harishui online on govisit.gov.il or by calling *4515.

Bring along all necessary documents (originals and copies):

• Teudat Zehut
• Teudat Oleh, if applicable
• Valid full validity foreign license, plus a copy of both the front and back

The clerk will determine your specific requirements for converting your foreign license.  This should include the following:

1. Written Theory Test – You must pass a written test on traffic regulations in Israel before beginning driving lessons.
   1. Study online: isradrive.com in English or m.noeg.co.il and testil.com in Hebrew. Books are also available in bookstores or libraries.
   2. Register and pay at theorytest.org.il. 

The testing location in Jerusalem is located at Yad Harutsim 18 (in the Achim Israel Mall), Talpiot. Opening hours:

Tip

The test may be taken in English, but the translation is often poor. Hebrew may be a better option for those proficient in the language.

After passing, one will receive a certificate. 

Tip

Ask the clerk to note that this is a conversion, not a new license. This may allow for an easier driving test.

2. Driving Lessons – One is required to take a minimum of one lesson with a certified driving instructor before taking a driving test. Contact an instructor to set up a lesson and specify whether you drive an automatic or manual shift car.

At the lesson, the applicant should present their teudat zehut. After the lesson, the teacher may suggest further lessons if they feel it is needed.  

Tip

Each country has unique driving expectations, so even skilled drivers benefit from a local lesson to understand Israeli standards.

3. Driving Test – The driving instructor will schedule an appointment for a driving test (mivchan shlita / mivchan ma’asi), which is taken in the instructor’s car. A lesson is typically scheduled just prior to the test.

Two fees must be paid beforehand: one for the test (agrat mivchan, payable online) and one for use of the instructor’s car. The instructor will provide all necessary forms and payment information in advance.

After the test, one will be notified by phone the same day whether they passed.

If one fails, they may continue lessons until the instructor deems them ready for a retest.

Receiving your license

Israeli citizens will either receive their temporary license by email or can print it out from an automated licensing machine.

Pay online, on an automated licensing machine (see here) or call *5678 to find the location nearest to you.

The fee depends on the license validity period and is approximately 40 NIS per year.

The temporary license only becomes valid after payment. 

Note

Once paid, one does not need the actual license card to drive in Israel, provided they carry photo ID.

The permanent license will be mailed to the address listed with The Population Authority (Misrad Hapnim) within 4-6 weeks.  If not received within 45 days, call 077-998-5095.  If more than 45 days passed since date of payment, see below for details on obtaining a replacement card.

*Individuals over 75 years old, will need to undergo an eye exam and doctor’s exam, see here. 

Eligibility

• A toshav chozer who has a valid full-validity license but has been in Israel more than five years, or has under five years in Israel but less than two years of driving experience on a full validity license.

Process

Step One – Complete a Tofes Yarok

The tofes yarok is a medical questionnaire required in order to obtain a driver’s license in Israel.  

It can be completed online here.  The form can be filled out in English. 

Note

If one answered “yes” to any of the medical questions, upload a letter from a doctor stating you are “fit to drive/כשיר לנהוג”. If there is no response within two weeks, email support@chaimvchessed.com for further assistance.

Tip

If you do not have internet access, many opticians (see step 2) can complete the online form for a small fee.

Step Two – Visit a licensed optician

Go to an optician approved by Misrad Harishui. Bring your teudat zehut. The optometrist will photograph the applicant and conduct an eye exam. There is a fee for the eye exam.

For a list of optometrists throughout Israel who are approved by Misrad Harishui, see here. 

It is recommended to call ahead to confirm the optometrist is in.

Tip

The following locations are near the offices of Misrad Harishui in Jerusalem:

·   Merkaz HaOptica, Yad Haruzim 18, Achim Yisrael Mall, Talpiot: 02-6416656

·   Optica Halperin, Malcha Mall, 02-6306402

Step Three – Visit Misrad Harishui

Book an appointment for the nearest Misrad Harishui online on govisit.gov.il or by calling *5678.

Bring along all necessary documents (originals and copies):

• Teudat Zehut
• Daf knisot viyitziot from The Population Authority (Misrad Hapnim)
• Valid full validity foreign license, plus a copy of both the front and back
• Driving abstract (record) showing time spent on a full-validity driving experience, prior to date of entry to Israel.  One can present old licenses in lieu of a driving abstract. If your present license was valid before entry, a driving abstract is not needed at all.

The clerk will determine your specific requirements for converting your foreign license.  This should include the following:

1. Written Theory Test – You must pass a written test on traffic regulations in Israel before beginning driving lessons.
   1. Study online: isradrive.com in English or m.noeg.co.il and testil.com in Hebrew. Books are also available in bookstores or libraries.
   2. Register and pay at theorytest.org.il. 

Tip

The test may be taken in English, but the translation is often poor. Hebrew may be a better option for those proficient in the language.

After passing, one will receive a certificate. 

Tip

Ask the clerk to note that this is a conversion, not a new license. This may allow for an easier driving test.

2. Driving Lessons – One is required to take a minimum of one lesson with a certified driving instructor before taking a driving test. Contact an instructor to set up a lesson and specify whether you drive an automatic or manual shift car.

At the lesson, the applicant should present their teudat zehut or foreign passport, visa and temporary ID number. After the lesson, the teacher may suggest further lessons if they feel it is needed.  

Tip

Each country has unique driving expectations, so even skilled drivers benefit from a local lesson to understand Israeli standards.

3. Driving Test – The driving instructor will schedule an appointment for a driving test (mivchan shlita / mivchan ma’asi), which is taken in the instructor’s car. A lesson is typically scheduled just prior to the test.

Two fees must be paid beforehand: one for the test (agrat mivchan, payable online) and one for use of the instructor’s car. The instructor will provide all necessary forms and payment information in advance.

After the test, one will be notified by phone the same day whether they passed.

If one fails, they may continue lessons until the instructor deems them ready for a retest.

Receiving your license

Israeli citizens will either receive their temporary license by email or can print it out from an automated licensing machine.

Pay online, on an automated licensing machine (see here) or call *5678 to find the location nearest to you.

The fee depends on the license validity period and is approximately 40 NIS per year.

The temporary license only becomes valid after payment. 

Note

Once paid, one does not need the actual license card to drive in Israel, provided they carry photo ID.

The permanent license will be mailed to the address listed with The Population Authority (Misrad Hapnim) within 4-6 weeks.  If not received within 45 days, call 077-998-5095.  If more than 45 days passed since date of payment, call *5678 to track your license.

*Individuals over 75 years old, will need to undergo an eye exam and doctor’s exam, see here. 

Eligibility

• An A-category visa holder who has a valid full-validity license but has been in Israel more than five years, or has under five years in Israel but less than two years of driving experience on a full validity license.

Process

Step One – Obtaining an ID Number (89)

Foreign residents who do not possess a teudat zehut number must obtain an ID number from Misrad Harishui. This number will start with 89 and will be required in all dealings with Misrad Hatachbura, including driver’s licenses and car purchase.

Visit a branch of Misrad Harishui , no appointment needed, and request an 89 ID number. 

Present the clerk with your foreign passport and visa.  You will be given a paper with your 89 number.

Note

Be sure the document containing your 89 ID number bears an official stamp from the Misrad Harishui.

See here to find the Misrad Harishui nearest to you. 

Step Two – Complete a Tofes Yarok

The tofes yarok is a medical questionnaire required in order to obtain a driver’s license in Israel.  

It can be completed online here.  The form can be filled out in English.  Foreigners should use the number they received from Misrad Harishui (beginning with 89) as their ID number on the form.

Note

If one answered “yes” to any of the medical questions, upload a letter from a doctor stating you are “fit to drive/כשיר לנהוג”. If there is no response within two weeks, email support@chaimvchessed.com for further assistance.

Tip

If you do not have internet access, many opticians (see step 2) can complete the online form for a small fee.

Step Three – Visit a licensed optician

Go to an optician approved by Misrad Harishui. Bring your teudat zehut or foreign passport and 89 number. The optometrist will photograph the applicant and conduct an eye exam.  There is a fee for the eye exam.

For a list of optometrists throughout Israel who are approved by Misrad Harishui, see here. 

It is recommended to call ahead to confirm the optometrist is in.

Tip

The following locations are near the offices of Misrad Harishui in Jerusalem:

·   Merkaz HaOptica, Yad Haruzim 18, Achim Yisrael Mall, Talpiot: 02-6416656

·   Optica Halperin, Malcha Mall, 02-6306402

Step Four – Visit Misrad Harishui

An appointment must be made in advance online on govisit.gov.il or by calling *5678. Book using your 89 number as your ID number.

Bring originals plus a printed copy of each item:

• Passport and valid visa (printed copy)
• Valid foreign driver’s license, plus a copy of both the front and back
• Daf knisot viyitziot from The Population Authority (Misrad Hapnim)

The clerk will determine your specific requirements for converting your foreign license.  This should include the following:

1. Written Theory Test – You must pass a written test on traffic regulations in Israel before beginning driving lessons.

• Study online: isradrive.com in English or m.noeg.co.il and testil.com in Hebrew. Books are also available in bookstores or libraries.
• Register and pay at theorytest.org.il.  The testing location in Jerusalem is located at Yad Harutsim 18 (in the Achim Israel Mall), Talpiot.  Opening hours:
  • Sunday, Monday, Wednesday  8:30 am – 4:30 pm
  • Tuesday, Thursday 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am – 12:30 pm

Tip

The test may be taken in English, but the translation is often poor. Hebrew may be a better option for those proficient in the language.

After passing, one will receive a certificate. 

Tip

Ask the clerk to note that this is a conversion, not a new license. This may allow for an easier driving test.

2. Driving Lessons – One is required to take a minimum of one lesson with a certified driving instructor before taking a driving test. Contact an instructor to set up a lesson and specify whether you drive an automatic or manual shift car.

At the lesson, the applicant should present their foreign passport, visa and temporary ID number. After the lesson, the teacher may suggest further lessons if they feel it is needed.  

Tip

 Each country has unique driving expectations, so even skilled drivers benefit from a local lesson to understand Israeli standards.

3. Driving Test – The driving instructor will schedule an appointment for a driving test (mivchan shlita / mivchan ma’asi), which is taken in the instructor’s car. A lesson is typically scheduled just prior to the test.

Two fees must be paid beforehand: one for the test (agrat mivchan, payable online) and one for use of the instructor’s car. The instructor will provide all necessary forms and payment information in advance.

After the test, one will be notified by phone the same day whether they passed.

If one fails, they may continue lessons until the instructor deems them ready for a retest.

Receiving Your License 

Foreign citizens must go in person to Misrad Harishui to receive the temporary driver’s license. 

To schedule an appointment call *5678 or go to govisit.gov.il and book with Misrad Hatachbura (the Ministry of Transportation) for הוצאת רישיון נהיגה. Select להמשך זימון התור. Foreigners should use their ID number beginning with 89.

Bring: Passport and visa, foreign license, and 89 number (when applicable). Originals and printed copies of each document are required.

Tip

Bring along a confirmation of the appointment.

Misrad Harishui will issue a temporary license on the spot however it is NOT valid until it is paid for.

Bring the temporary license to the post office and pay the fee, or call *5678 to pay with a phone representative.

The fee depends on the license validity period and is approximately 40 NIS per year.

The temporary license only becomes valid after payment. 

Note

 Once paid, one does not need the actual license card to drive in Israel, provided they carry photo ID and their 89 number from Misrad Harishui.

The permanent license will be mailed to the address listed with The Population Authority (Misrad Hapnim) within 4-6 weeks.  If not received within 45 days, call 077-998-5095.  If more than 45 days passed since date of payment, see below for details on obtaining a replacement card.

*Individuals over 75 years old, will need to undergo an eye exam and doctor’s exam, see here.