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Embarking on a journey across Israel is thrilling but requires careful preparation. For visitors from Germany, there are specific considerations to ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable driving experience.
  • Can I drive in Israel with my German license?
  • What car rental policies should I be aware of?
  • What types of insurance are available for travelers?
  • How can I find the best deals on car rentals?
  • Are there unique driving rules or cultural practices in Israel?

This guide provides comprehensive answers to these questions, equipping you with practical tips and essential references for a seamless car rental experience in Israel. By the end, you'll be prepared to explore the country's diverse landscapes with confidence.

Can German Citizens Drive in Israel?

Yes, German travelers can legally drive in Israel with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

  • Form of ID:

    A valid passport is required.

  • Driving licence:

    Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    • Original South Korea Driving Lisense (English version)

    Notes: Please note that an International Driving Permit(IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter. An English translation must be provided on the back of the driver's license.
  • Accepted cards:

    Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, and AMEX.

  • Age requirements:

    Drivers must be between 18 and 99 years old. Young drivers aged 18-23 will incur a fee of US$ 14.00 per day.

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

Check Rates

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Choose from trusted global chains or innovative local alternatives. Each offers different advantages for travelers from DE to IL.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

  • Hertz

    global
    8.5

    Locations:

    41

    Prices:

    $$$

    Key Advantages

    • Largest fleet in USA
    • Premium vehicle selection
    • Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
    • Express rental counters

    Best for

    Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
  • Hertz

    global
    8.5

    Locations:

    79

    Prices:

    $$$

    Key Advantages

    • Largest fleet in USA
    • Premium vehicle selection
    • Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
    • Express rental counters

    Best for

    Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
  • Europcar

    global
    8.5

    Locations:

    60

    Prices:

    $$

    Key Advantages

    • Strong presence in Europe
    • Commitment to sustainability
    • Loyalty program with rewards
    • 24/7 roadside assistance

    Best for

    Leisure travelers and business professionals
  • Alamo

    global
    8.5

    Locations:

    12

    Prices:

    $$

    Key Advantages

    • Wide selection of vehicles
    • No hidden fees
    • 24/7 roadside assistance
    • Loyalty rewards program

    Best for

    Budget-conscious travelers and families
  • SIXT

    global
    8.5

    Locations:

    106

    Prices:

    $$

    Key Advantages

    • Wide selection of vehicles
    • Competitive pricing
    • Easy online booking
    • 24/7 customer service

    Best for

    Travelers looking for quality and flexibility
  • Autounion

    local
    8.5

    Locations:

    5

    Prices:

    $$

    Key Advantages

    • Competitive pricing
    • Personalized customer service
    • Flexible rental terms
    • Wide range of vehicles

    Best for

    Budget-conscious travelers and local residents
Recommendations for Travelers from DE to IL
Choose Global Chains If:
  • First time renting in IL
  • Need reliable statewide coverage
  • Require 24/7 customer support
  • Business or crucial travel
Choose Local Brands If:
  • Looking for cost-effective options
  • Staying within major cities
  • Interested in unique vehicle options
  • Comfortable with app-based services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your trip more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Consider your travel group, the destinations you plan to visit in Illinois, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare various car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

  • Seating and Luggage

    Consider your travel group size and luggage needs.

    • Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
      Perfect for city driving and short trips.

    • Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
      Good balance of space and fuel efficiency.

    • Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
      Comfortable for longer distances.

    • Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
      Ideal for families and group travel.

  • Transmission Type

    Choose between automatic and manual transmission.

    • Automatic transmission
      Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in the USA.

    • Manual transmission
      Often cheaper, better fuel economy, and provides more control.

    • Most drivers prefer automatic for USA road trips.

    • Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars.

  • Insurance Included

    Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental.

    • Basic liability
      Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included.

    • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
      Covers damage to your rental car, often optional.

    • Theft protection
      Protects against car theft, may be included or additional.

    • Personal insurance
      Check if your German insurance or travel insurance covers rentals.

  • Cancellation Policy

    Understand booking flexibility and fees.

    • Free cancellation
      Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup.

    • Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
      Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible.

    • Change fees
      Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type.

    • Travel insurance
      Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays.

  • Mileage Policy

    Check distance restrictions and additional charges.

    • Unlimited mileage
      Best for long road trips and cross-country travel.

    • Limited mileage
      Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles.

    • Consider your planned route distance and potential detours.

    • Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices.

  • Fuel Policy

    Understand fuel requirements and costs.

    • Full-to-Full
      Return with the same fuel level; most economical option.

    • Full-to-Empty
      Pay upfront for a full tank; convenient but often more expensive.

    • Same-to-Same
      Return with the same level as pickup; fair pricing.

    • Pre-purchase fuel options
      Compare costs with local gas station prices.

Quick Decision Guide

  • City Travel

    Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy.

    Chicago, Springfield, Peoria
  • Road Trip

    Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation.

    cross-country trips covering Illinois and neighboring states.
  • Vacation

    Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option.

    Lake Michigan, Starved Rock State Park, Galena

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.
  • Compare all car rental deals
  • No hidden fees
  • Real customer reviews
Check Rates

What Are the Popular Destinations in Israel?

Israel presents a blend of historical landmarks, vibrant cities, and scenic landscapes. Travelers can explore iconic routes, such as the coastal drive from Tel Aviv to Haifa or the desert journey to Eilat, perfectly suited for immersive experiences.

What Insurance Do I Need?

You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in IL, but for peace of mind on your trip, additional coverage is strongly recommended. Insurance regulations and inclusions can vary by state, so make sure to verify what's covered in your rental agreement.

Types of Insurance Coverage
  • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)

    Covers damage to the rental car resulting from collisions or theft.

    €14-23/day
    Essential
  • Theft Waiver (TP)

    Protects against the theft of the rental vehicle.

    €4-7/day
    Essential
  • Liability Insurance

    Covers injury or damage caused to others and their property.

    Typically included
    Included
  • Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)

    Provides coverage for medical expenses for you and your passengers in case of an accident.

    €4-9/day
    Optional
QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Israel. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Coverage Feature
QEEQ Full Coverage
Basic Rental Company
Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

$420.00 - $1,144.40
Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$420.00 - $1,144.40
Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered
Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered
Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered
Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Israel?

For travelers from Germany heading to Israel, planning ahead and understanding local rental policies can significantly cut costs on car rentals.

Booking Tips for lower Prices
  • Book in Advance
    Secure your car rental at least 3-5 weeks before your trip to get access to the best rates and availability.
    Save up to 35%
  • Use Price Comparison Websites
    Platforms like Rentalcars.com or QEEQ allow you to compare prices across providers to find the most competitive deals.
    Save up to 20%
  • Opt for a Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
    This policy ensures you only pay for the gas you use, and you can refill at local, less expensive stations before returning the car.
    Save €15-30
  • Avoid Renting at Airports
    Rental offices located outside major airports often have lower fees and a wider selection.
    Save €10-25 per day
  • Share the Cost
    If traveling with companions, consider splitting the rental and fuel costs for greater savings.
    Potentially halve your costs
QEEQ's Money-Saving Features
  • Diamond Membership
    Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
    View Details
  • Price Drop Protector
    If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
    View Details
  • One-Dollar Freeze
    Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
    View Details
  • Flexible Payments
    Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
    View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Essential tips and considerations for German travelers renting a car in Israel.

  • Driving Regulations
    Be aware of specific driving laws and road signs in Israel.
    • Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
    • Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
    • Mobile phone use is prohibited while driving unless hands-free.
    • Observe speed limits (50 km/h in cities, 90-120 km/h on highways).
    • Traffic signs are usually in Hebrew, Arabic, and English.
  • Costs and Fees
    Understand the cost components of car rentals.
    • Rental costs typically range from $30-$70 per day.
    • Additional charges may apply for GPS devices or child seats.
    • Fuel prices in Israel are relatively high compared to Germany.
    • Pay attention to VAT charges for non-residents.
  • Insurance Coverage
    Check the insurance options available and their coverage.
    • Basic insurance is often included, but check for deductibles.
    • Consider additional coverage for theft and damage.
    • Verify if your travel or credit card insurance covers car rentals in Israel.
  • Restricted Areas
    Be informed about areas where rental cars are not allowed.
    • Driving in the West Bank may require specific permissions.
    • Avoid driving in Gaza, as it is restricted for tourists.
  • Car Condition
    Inspect your rental car thoroughly before driving away.
    • Check for any scratches or dents and document them.
    • Ensure that the car has a valid registration and insurance document.
    • Verify the fuel level and return policy.
  • Timely Pickup and Return
    Timing can affect your rental experience.
    • Ensure you pick up and drop off the car during the rental office's operating hours.
    • Late returns might incur additional charges.
    • Early returns may not be eligible for refunds.
Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

What Are The Difference Between US and Polish Traffic Rules

US and Polish traffic rules differ mainly in speed limits, signage units (miles vs. kilometers), alcohol tolerance (higher in the US), and right-on-red turns (more common in the US).

  • Right Turn on Red

    IL

    Allowed after full stop (unless prohibited by sign)

    DE

    Not allowed at red lights

  • School Buses

    IL

    Must stop when school bus has flashing red lights

    DE

    No special school bus rules

  • Highway Passing

    IL

    Pass on the left, slower traffic keeps right

    DE

    Similar, but passing on right sometimes allowed

  • Blood Alcohol Limit

    IL

    0.08% BAC (varies by state)

    DE

    0.02% BAC (much stricter)

  • Mobile Phone Use

    IL

    Hands-free only in most states

    DE

    Hands-free only

  • Seatbelt Laws

    IL

    Mandatory for all occupants in most states

    DE

    Mandatory for all occupants

  • Parking Rules

    IL

    Park in direction of traffic, colored curbs have meanings

    DE

    Can park against traffic on one-way streets

  • Remember
    • • Traffic rules vary by state - check local laws
    • • Police stops are more common - stay calm and polite
    • • Keep hands visible during police interactions
    • • Always carry your license and rental agreement
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