Israeli Driver`s License Classifications

Many people think, by mistake, that the Israeli driver`s license is like the driver`s license in the United States. Be careful, that is not true. In the United States, the simplest driver`s license allows driving even Recreational Vehicles (RV buses).

The Israeli driver`s license splits the license in several categories.

For example: class 02 (or B in the past) is the kind of license to drive vehicles deemed as “private or light commercial” and the maximum amount of passengers that this type of driver can transport is 7 (8 including himself) and not more than that.

For each type of vehicle, like a motorcycle, tractor, bus, etc., there is a different driver`s license.

If a class 02 driver wishes to drive 10 passengers, s/he will have to obtain a new driver`s license and obtain what in the past was called GIMEL.

Before the year 2000, a class 02 driver was prohibited from driving a vehicle with 11 seats, such as the Ford Transit or a Chevrolet Savanna and until this day the law has not been amended. In 2000, when our office obtained a court order, things became simpler. Today, a class 02 driver can drive a vehicle that has more than 8 seats, but only if they are not transporting more than the number of people allowed by their driver`s license, i.e., a total of 8 people. The difference is huge for those who have 6 children and buy big vehicles that fit more than 8 people for cargo purposes. Now they can drive these vehicles.

Unfortunately, not every traffic police officer is aware of this detail. If it happens, do not argue, try to explain, and if it doesn`t work, let him fine you, and after that, in court, request the cancellation of the fine and payment of damages (a lost day and a headache).

If you have any questions, it is always better to consult and follow the law!
 

Have a nice trip!
 

Tzvi Szajnbrum, Attorney at Law