According to new instructions issued by Israel’s Ministry of Transportation, Israeli drivers who are planning to drive while abroad will require an international license. Sources within the Ministry told Israeli media outlets that the new changes are being implemented due to pressure from numerous international bodies that want to see a higher level of security for travelers.
Until now, Israeli drivers were able to drive on their regular Israeli license in numerous countries such as the United States as well as the European Union. From now on, that luxury will cost Israelis 20 NIS for obtaining the international license as well as time waiting in line to do so. The Ministry also stated that licenses, like health insurance, will have to be obtained before the person travels abroad and that the government offices such as embassies and consulates abroad will not be able to issue the licenses, whereas until now, they were.
The good news is that the new international licenses will be accepted in 175 countries.
(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)
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One Response
Surely it is the government of the country or State the Israeli is going to drive in that decides whether an International driving permit [IDP] is needed, not the Israelis. For example as of now [per the NY State Dept of Motor Vehicles website] “You can drive in New York State with a valid driver license from another state or country. You don’t need to apply for a New York State driver license unless you become a New York State resident. If you have a driver license from another country you do not need to have an International Driving Permit”. Similarly as per gov.uk “Driving in Great Britain on a non-GB licence”. A visitor “can drive any small vehicle (eg car or motorcycle) listed on your full and valid licence for 12 months from when you last entered Great Britain (GB)”. The same applies in most of the EU countries [Italy being a notable exception where an IDP is needed] and most Eastern European countries. Who are the Israelis trying to kid here “From now on….”.