Just made Aliyah and want to drive legally in Israel?
Good news — Olim benefit from a simplified process to convert a foreign driving licence into an Israeli one (called Teudat Nehiga).
This thread explains:
Who qualifies
How the process works
What to bring
Time limits and tips
As an Oleh, you can convert your foreign licence without retaking driving lessons or tests — if you meet the following:
You had a valid foreign licence for at least 5 years prior to Aliyah
You apply within 5 years of making Aliyah
Your foreign licence is still valid at time of application
If you had your licence for less than 5 years, you may need to take a practical driving test (but not theory).
You must begin the conversion within 5 years of your Aliyah date
BUT — you can only drive in Israel on your foreign licence for 1 year after Aliyah
Don’t delay — appointments and paperwork take time!
Go to an approved optometrist (bring your Teudat Zehut)
They will fill out a Form 18 (Tofes Yarok) and update it digitally in the system.
Get a simple medical check (usually from your Kupat Cholim or family doctor)
This is also part of the Form 18 process
Book an appointment via gov.il or MyVisit app
Bring:
Pay the licence issuance fee online or at the post office.
Keep your payment receipt — you’ll need it for the final step.
Once approved, you’ll receive a temporary licence — and your permanent plastic card will arrive by mail within a few weeks.
If your foreign licence is less than 5 years old, or the Ministry requires it, you’ll be asked to take a one-time practical driving test (no theory test required).
You’ll need to:
“Book your Misrad HaRishui appointment early — they fill up fast.”
“My optometrist submitted Form 18 online, I didn’t have to bring it myself.”
“I brought copies of everything just in case.”
“Even if your licence is in English, bring a translation if the clerk can’t read it.”
Easy Aliyah can assist with: Booking appointments
Translation of foreign licences
Step-by-step concierge support
Help navigating the driving school process (if needed)
More info: EasyAliyah.com
Have questions about converting your licence, taking a test, or driving as an Oleh?
Drop your question here — just don’t post personal documents or ID numbers.
Good news — Olim benefit from a simplified process to convert a foreign driving licence into an Israeli one (called Teudat Nehiga).
This thread explains:
Who qualifies How the process works What to bring Time limits and tips
Who Can Convert Their Licence?
As an Oleh, you can convert your foreign licence without retaking driving lessons or tests — if you meet the following: You had a valid foreign licence for at least 5 years prior to Aliyah You apply within 5 years of making Aliyah Your foreign licence is still valid at time of applicationIf you had your licence for less than 5 years, you may need to take a practical driving test (but not theory).
Time Limits
You must begin the conversion within 5 years of your Aliyah date BUT — you can only drive in Israel on your foreign licence for 1 year after AliyahDon’t delay — appointments and paperwork take time!
Step-by-Step Guide to Converting Your Licence
Get an Eye Test
Go to an approved optometrist (bring your Teudat Zehut)They will fill out a Form 18 (Tofes Yarok) and update it digitally in the system.
Medical Form
Get a simple medical check (usually from your Kupat Cholim or family doctor)This is also part of the Form 18 process
Visit a Misrad HaRishui (Licensing Office)
Book an appointment via gov.il or MyVisit app Bring:- Teudat Zehut
- Teudat Oleh
- Foreign driving licence (original + photocopy)
- Valid passport
- 2 passport photos
- Completed Form 18 (digitally submitted from optometrist/doctor)
Pay the Conversion Fee
Pay the licence issuance fee online or at the post office.Keep your payment receipt — you’ll need it for the final step.
Get Your Israeli Licence!
Once approved, you’ll receive a temporary licence — and your permanent plastic card will arrive by mail within a few weeks.
Need to Take a Driving Test?
If your foreign licence is less than 5 years old, or the Ministry requires it, you’ll be asked to take a one-time practical driving test (no theory test required).You’ll need to:
- Register with a driving school
- Take 1–2 lessons
- Schedule the “test-only” appointment
Tips from Fellow Olim
“Book your Misrad HaRishui appointment early — they fill up fast.” “My optometrist submitted Form 18 online, I didn’t have to bring it myself.” “I brought copies of everything just in case.” “Even if your licence is in English, bring a translation if the clerk can’t read it.”
Need Help?
Easy Aliyah can assist with: Booking appointments Translation of foreign licences Step-by-step concierge support Help navigating the driving school process (if needed)More info: EasyAliyah.com
Ask Below
Have questions about converting your licence, taking a test, or driving as an Oleh?Drop your question here — just don’t post personal documents or ID numbers.
