Driving in Israel
Israel Rent-A-Car
Car Rental Israel
Car Rental Israel is one of the most practical ways to explore the country at your own pace — from the coastal roads of Tel Aviv to the quiet landscapes of the Negev and Galilee. Over the years, many of my guests have asked for clear, honest advice about renting a car: where to book, what insurance is needed, and what to expect when driving here. As your licensed Israel Tour Guide, I’ve gathered the most reliable, experience-based information to help you plan confidently. This page explains everything you need to know about Israel Car Rental — airport pickup, local regulations, fuel costs, and travel tips — so you can make smart decisions, avoid surprises, and enjoy a smooth journey across Israel.
INTRODUCTION
Car Rental Israel is one of the most practical ways to explore the country at your own pace — from Tel Aviv’s beaches to the highlands of the Galilee and the open roads of the Negev Desert. Over the years, many of my guests have asked for honest advice about renting a car here: which companies to trust, what insurance to choose, and what it’s like to drive in Israel. As your licensed Israel Tour Guide, I’ve gathered the most reliable information to help you plan confidently. This guide covers everything you need to know about Israel Car Rental — airport pickup, local regulations, fuel costs, and travel tips — so you can make smart choices, avoid surprises, and enjoy a safe, stress-free journey across Israel.
WHY RENT A CAR IN ISRAEL
Renting a car in Israel gives you flexibility that trains and buses can’t. Many of the country’s highlights — Masada, the Dead Sea, the Galilee churches, or desert craters — are easiest reached by car. For Private Israel Tours, a rental vehicle lets you explore smaller towns and scenic detours on your own schedule, stopping for viewpoints or short hikes along the way. Public transportation works well between major cities, but outside Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, schedules can be limited — especially on weekends or holidays. Having your own car means freedom to travel early, stay late, and visit places most tourists miss.
WHERE TO RENT — AIRPORTS & CITIES
Most travelers pick up their car at Ben Gurion Airport, where major companies such as Eldan, Avis, Hertz, Europcar and Sixt operate 24 hours a day. You can also rent from branches in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, Eilat, and other large cities. Airport rentals are convenient for arrivals but sometimes slightly more expensive than city branches. If you’re beginning your journey with a few days in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv, consider renting later — it’s easier to explore big cities on foot or by public transport.
DOCUMENTS & ELIGIBILITY
To rent a car in Israel, you’ll need:
- A valid driver’s license from your home country (in English letters or with an International Driving Permit).
- A passport and major credit card for the deposit.
- Most companies require drivers to be over 21, with at least one year of driving experience; higher-category vehicles may require age 25 or above.
If you’re arriving from North America or Europe, your regular license is usually accepted for stays under one year.
INSURANCE & DEPOSITS
Understanding insurance is essential before signing any agreement. Base rental prices often exclude the mandatory Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP) — these must be added or covered by your credit card’s travel insurance.
Ask clearly about:
- Deductible amount (the maximum you’d pay if something happens).
- Third-party liability — should always be included.
- Tire & windshield coverage — optional but useful for desert driving.
Credit cards like Visa Platinum or Mastercard World Elite sometimes include car-rental insurance, but you must decline the local CDW and provide proof of coverage.
Always confirm details in writing before pickup.
DRIVING IN ISRAEL
Driving standards in Israel are modern and generally safe. Roads are well-paved, signs are in Hebrew, Arabic, and English, and GPS apps (like Waze, developed in Israel) work perfectly. Speed limits: 50 km/h in cities, 80–90 km/h on intercity roads, and 110–120 km/h on highways. Seatbelts are mandatory, and mobile phone use without hands-free is prohibited. Avoid driving into Area A (Palestinian-administered zones) unless your rental contract explicitly allows it. Parking can be tight in city centers — look for blue-and-white lines (paid parking via EasyPark or Pango app) and avoid red-and-white curbs (no parking).
FUEL, COSTS & TOLLS
Fuel prices are similar to Europe — higher than North America — so consider compact or hybrid cars for efficiency.
Gas stations accept cards and cash; attendants usually fill the tank for you.
Israel has a few toll roads:
- Highway 6 (Cross-Israel Tollway) uses automatic billing through your license plate.
- Highway 1 Fast Lane near Tel Aviv offers optional express access.
Charges are billed directly to the rental company and added to your account.
CAR TYPES & TIPS
Compact sedans (Toyota Corolla, Hyundai i25) work well for most itineraries. If you’re touring the Golan Heights or Negev Desert, consider a small SUV for comfort on uneven terrain. Automatic transmission is standard in Israel, though manual cars are slightly cheaper. Book early during Jewish holidays (Passover, Sukkot) or summer weekends — demand surges quickly.
TRAFFIC & SHABBAT CONSIDERATIONS
Traffic around Tel Aviv can be heavy during morning and evening rush hours. Plan longer drives outside those times. On Shabbat (Friday afternoon – Saturday evening), public transportation largely stops, but roads remain open. Some smaller towns close fuel stations and shops; keep your tank topped up and food stocked before the weekend.
CAR RETURN & INSPECTION
Return the car with the same fuel level as when received. Take photos of the vehicle and mileage before handing it over. Late returns are charged per extra hour — so allow time for security and traffic if returning to Ben Gurion Airport. Ask for a printed confirmation showing that no new damage was reported.
PRO TIPS FROM UNCLE OFER
- Book directly with the rental company’s local website to avoid hidden broker fees.
- Check pickup hours carefully — many branches close for holidays or early on Fridays.
- Bring a physical credit card (digital wallets often don’t work for deposits).
- Download Waze and Google Maps offline before long desert drives.
- Ask about child seats or GPS units when reserving — they can’t always be added on short notice.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN YOUR TRIP
Renting a car in Israel is simpler than most travelers expect — once you understand the basics. With a little preparation, it gives you the freedom to explore at your own rhythm, beyond the reach of group tours and bus schedules. As your Israel Tour Guide, I’m always happy to share personal tips from years on the road — where to stop, what routes are scenic, and how to make driving here part of the adventure itself. Drive safe, stay curious, and enjoy the journey.
Ready To
Hit The Road?
Exploring Israel by car gives you the freedom to travel at your own rhythm — from the desert roads of the Negev to the quiet hills of the Galilee. If you’d like personal advice on routes, scenic stops, or how to make driving part of your Private Israel Tour, I’d be happy to help. Click “Get In Touch” to start planning your journey with confidence and the insider tips of your licensed Israel Tour Guide, Uncle Ofer.