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World Driving Permit

🇮🇱 Do you need an IDP to drive in Israel?

Depends on your licence· 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 17 Jun 2026

Short answer

It depends on the country that issued your licence — Israel accepts some foreign licences directly while others require an International Driving Permit (IDP). Confirm the rule for your specific licence before you travel.

Driving in Israel: the rule explained

Tourists may legally drive in Israel on a valid foreign national licence for up to one year from their last entry, provided they entered legally and the licence category matches the vehicle. Holders of licences from 1968 Vienna Convention signatory countries (which Israel recognises) do not need an IDP; drivers from non-signatory countries generally need an IDP. An IDP or certified English/Hebrew translation is strongly recommended whenever the licence is not in English.

Exemption: Tourists may drive on their foreign licence for up to one year from entry; an IDP is waived for 1968 Vienna Convention licence holders, others typically need an IDP.

Renting a car in Israel

Rental companies require a licence legible in English (with a photo), held for at least 2 years; if the licence is not in English they require an IDP alongside it, and many request an IDP regardless.

Motorcycles & scooters: Tourists may ride motorcycles (categories A1/A2/A) on a matching foreign licence under the same one-year rule.

What to carry when driving in Israel

  • Original driving license (physical card)
  • Passport with valid visa/entry stamp
  • Translation companion or certified translation of your license
  • Proof of insurance covering the destination
  • Passport showing legal entry stamp/visa to prove the one-year window
  • Credit card in the main driver's name for the rental deposit

Check your exact trip

Get a tailored answer for your licence country, dates and vehicle.

Translation companion

A certified, multi-language translation of your licence to carry alongside it. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Israel: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Israel?
It depends on the country that issued your licence — Israel accepts some foreign licences directly while others require an International Driving Permit (IDP). Confirm the rule for your specific licence before you travel. Tourists may legally drive in Israel on a valid foreign national licence for up to one year from their last entry, provided they entered legally and the licence category matches the vehicle. Holders of licences from 1968 Vienna Convention signatory countries (which Israel recognises) do not need an IDP; drivers from non-signatory countries generally need an IDP. An IDP or certified English/Hebrew translation is strongly recommended whenever the licence is not in English.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Israel?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Israel read your licence, but it does not replace an IDP where one is legally required. Always carry your original national licence with it.
What do I need to rent a car in Israel?
Rental companies require a licence legible in English (with a photo), held for at least 2 years; if the licence is not in English they require an IDP alongside it, and many request an IDP regardless.
Which IDP convention does Israel use?
Israel recognises IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Make sure your IDP is issued by your own country's authorised issuer under the matching convention.

Official sources

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? See how to get an IDP from an authorised issuer.

Requirements for other countries