Car Rental in Israel for UK Travelers

Embarking on a road trip in Israel offers a unique way to explore its historical sites and diverse landscapes.
If you're traveling from the United Kingdom, common questions often arise:

Can I drive in Israel with my UK license?
What insurance options are available?
What is the average rental cost in Israel?
Are there fees for one-way rentals?
What are important traffic rules I should know?

This guide provides clear and detailed answers to ensure your driving experience in Israel is smooth and enjoyable. We’ve included practical tips and a summary for quick reference at the end.

Can British Citizens Drive in North Macedonia?

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

Form of ID:
A valid passport is required for foreign renters.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original Driver's License in Roman Alphabet
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 21 and 75 years old. Young drivers aged 21-24 incur an additional fee of US$ 20.86 per day.

Ready to Rent?

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

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Top Car Rental Companies in Israel

Select from a range of globally recognized rental providers or local companies offering unique services tailored for travelers from Great Britain.

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

Tailored Car Rental Advice for British Travelers

Opt for Global Chains If

You're visiting multiple cities across Israel
Require a comprehensive insurance package
Need reliable customer service in English
Prioritize a seamless and standard rental experience

Opt for Local Brands If

You're focusing on staying in one city or region
Need a cost-effective solution
Want to explore unique vehicle options
Prefer personalized customer service

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your journey more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple 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 USA
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Most travelers from GB prefer automatic for foreign 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 GB 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 same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with 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
Tel Aviv, Haifa, Jerusalem
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Negev Desert, Sea of Galilee, Eilat
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Dead Sea, Masada, Caesarea

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

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Popular Destinations for Car Rentals in Israel

Israel offers a variety of vibrant cities and scenic routes perfect for exploration. Travelers can enjoy one-way rentals to maximize their travel experience across this captivating country.

What Insurance Do I Need?

When renting a car in IL, certain types of insurance are required by law, while others are optional but recommended for added protection. Understanding your coverage can prevent unexpected costs during your trip.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental vehicle in the event of a collision or accident.
£12-20/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Provides coverage for theft of the rental vehicle.
£4-7/day
Essential
Liability Insurance
Covers damages to other vehicles or property and injury to other people in an accident.
Often included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Offers medical cost coverage for injuries sustained by the driver and passengers.
£4-8/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

$292.56 - $3,536.12

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$292.56 - $3,536.12

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?

Discover practical tips to save on car rentals for your trip from Great Britain to Israel. Plan your rental wisely to enjoy better deals and enhanced travel experiences.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Early
Secure your rental car 6-8 weeks in advance to access early bird discounts and a wider selection of vehicles.
Save up to 35% on rental rates
Use Comparison Tools
Leverage platforms like Rentalcars.com and QEEQ to compare rental options and find the best deals.
Save up to 30% on pricing
Refuel Wisely
Opt for the full-to-full fuel policy and refuel at local stations to avoid higher fuel charges from rental companies.
Save approximately £15-30 on fuel costs
Avoid Airport Pickups
Choose a rental location away from the airport to avoid extra fees often associated with airport services.
Save around £20-50 in additional charges

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
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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?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Israel.

Hidden Fees
Watch out for extra charges that aren't included in the base price.
- Airport surcharges
- Young driver fees (under 25)
- Additional driver fees
- Equipment rentals (GPS, child seats)
- Toll road transponders
Insurance Pressure
Rental agents often push expensive insurance at pickup.
- Check your existing coverage first
- Credit card benefits may cover you
- Don't feel pressured to buy on the spot
- Understand what's actually needed
- Third-party insurance can be cheaper
Fuel Policies
Different fuel policies can significantly impact costs.
- Full-to-full is usually cheapest
- Prepaid fuel is often more expensive
- Identify gas stations near return locations
- Keep fuel receipts as proof
- Return with the same fuel level
Vehicle Inspection
Thorough inspection prevents disputes later.
- Document all existing damage
- Check tires, lights, and mirrors
- Test electronics and A/C
- Note fuel level and mileage
- Take time-stamped photos
Contract Terms
Read the agreement thoroughly to avoid surprises.
- Mileage restrictions and fees
- Geographic driving limitations
- Return time policies
- Modification and cancellation terms
- Damage assessment procedures
Pickup & Return Times
Timing can affect your rental costs and experience.
- Plan arrival during business hours
- Allow extra time for airport locations
- Late returns may incur full-day charges
- Early returns rarely get refunds
- Consider traffic conditions

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.

Differences and Similarities in Traffic Rules between GB and IL

Traffic rules between GB and IL vary in aspects such as road signage, alcohol limits, and driving conventions while sharing common safety measures like seatbelt usage.

Driving Side
IL
Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
GB
Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
Alcohol Limits
IL
Maximum blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.05%.
GB
Maximum blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%.
Roundabouts
IL
Yield to vehicles already in the roundabout.
GB
Priority to the right unless indicated otherwise.
Mobile Phone Use
IL
Hands-free devices are mandatory for calls.
GB
Hands-free devices are mandatory for calls.
Seatbelt Laws
IL
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
GB
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
Parking Rules
IL
Parking is typically on the right side of the street.
GB
Parking is typically on the left side of the street.
Remember
- • Ensure to adjust to driving on the right-hand side when transitioning to IL.
- • Familiarize yourself with local road signs and their meanings.
- • Always carry your driving license, rental papers, and insurance documents.
- • Be aware of pedestrian crossings and yield appropriately.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from United Kingdom renting a car in Israel

What documents do I need to rent a car in Israel as a UK citizen?

You need a valid passport, your full UK driving licence (photocard), a credit card in the main driver's name for deposit, and your rental booking confirmation. Most rental companies do not accept debit cards for deposits.

Is an International Driving Permit (IDP) required to drive in Israel with a UK licence?

If your UK licence is in English and has a photo, an IDP is not mandatory. However, it is strongly recommended as it serves as an official translation and can prevent issues with local authorities in case of accidents or police stops.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Israel?

Most companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may face a young driver surcharge and could be restricted from renting certain vehicle categories. Some companies require minimum age of 23 or 25 for specific cars.

What is the best platform to book a car rental in Israel from the UK?

QEEQ is highly recommended for its powerful price comparison across major international and local Israeli rental companies, transparent insurance options, and multilingual customer support.

How far in advance should I book a rental car for Israel?

Book at least 1-2 months ahead, especially for peak seasons (summer, Passover, December holidays). Early booking ensures more vehicle options and better rates.

What type of car should I choose for driving in Israel?

For city and highway travel, a compact or mid-size car is sufficient. For trips to the Negev desert or mountains, consider an SUV. Most rentals are automatic, which is helpful for UK drivers adjusting to right-side driving.

Can I pick up a car in one Israeli city and return it in another?

Yes, one-way rentals are possible, for example, picking up at Ben Gurion Airport and returning in Eilat. A one-way fee usually applies and is clearly shown when booking via QEEQ.

How does Shabbat (Sabbath) affect car rental pick-up and return?

Most city rental offices close for Shabbat (Friday sunset to Saturday sunset). Airport rental desks usually operate 24/7, but double-check hours. Avoid planning pick-up or drop-off in city offices during Shabbat unless at the airport.

What is typically included and excluded in Israeli car rental prices?

Included: rental fee, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), and third-party liability. Excluded: fuel, young driver fee, additional driver fee, GPS, child seat, one-way fee, VAT (if not exempt), and airport surcharge.

What are CDW and TP insurance? Is there an excess?

CDW covers collision damage and TP covers theft. Both usually have an excess (deductible), commonly $800-$2,000. You are liable up to this amount if the car is damaged or stolen.

Should I buy 'full insurance' or 'zero excess' coverage?

Yes, strongly recommended. 'Super CDW' or 'Full Protection' reduces your liability to zero or a very low amount. Purchasing this via QEEQ is cost-effective and ensures peace of mind.

Can I rely on car rental insurance provided by my UK credit card?

Be very cautious. Many UK credit cards exclude Israel from coverage, and rental companies may not accept external insurance, insisting you buy theirs or pay a large deposit. It is safest to buy full insurance through QEEQ or the rental provider.

How much is the car rental deposit and why is a credit card necessary?

Deposits usually match the insurance excess plus a fuel amount, typically frozen (not charged) on your credit card. Credit cards guarantee payment of potential liabilities; debit cards are not accepted for this purpose.

Are tourists exempt from VAT on car rentals in Israel?

Yes, tourists with B2, B3, or B4 visas are exempt from the 17% VAT. You must present your passport and the blue entry card received at immigration when picking up your car.

How do I find the car rental desks at Ben Gurion Airport?

After customs and baggage claim, follow 'Car Rental' signs to the arrivals hall. All major rental desks are on the first floor. After paperwork, you will be directed to the parking garage for car collection.

What should I check when picking up the rental car?

Inspect the exterior for scratches/dents (photograph all damage), check interior cleanliness, test air con/lights/wipers, verify tire condition and spare, and ensure the fuel level matches the contract.

What if my reserved car is unavailable at pick-up?

The rental company must provide a car of equal or higher class at no extra charge. If they attempt to downgrade, request a refund for the price difference or refuse the car.

What should I know about renting child safety seats in Israel?

By law, children must use age/weight-appropriate seats. Add seats to your booking and check their cleanliness and proper installation at pick-up.

How can UK drivers adapt from left-side to right-side driving in Israel?

Repeat 'keep right' before each turn, remember the driver sits on the left, navigate roundabouts counter-clockwise, and ask your companion for reminders. Practice in a quiet area if possible.

What are the main speed limits in Israel?

Unless otherwise posted: 50 km/h in cities, 80-90 km/h on intercity roads, and 100-120 km/h on highways. Speed cameras are common; always obey limits.

Are Israeli road signs easy to understand for English speakers?

Yes. Most important signs are trilingual (Hebrew, Arabic, English) and pictograms follow international standards.

Do I need to drive with headlights on during the day in Israel?

Yes, on intercity and highways between November 1 and March 31, headlights must be on at all times. It's safest to always turn them on when driving.

What are the mobile phone rules while driving?

It is strictly forbidden to hold or use a phone while driving. Only hands-free or Bluetooth devices are allowed. Fines for violations are severe.

How would you describe Israeli driving style?

Drivers tend to be assertive and impatient. Expect frequent lane changes, close following, and liberal horn use. Stay calm, keep safe distances, and don’t be pressured by other drivers.

What does honking mean in Israel?

Honking is more a form of communication (e.g., 'I'm here', 'Go on green') than aggression. Don't over-interpret horn use.

What should I do if stopped at a police checkpoint?

Slow down, open your window, follow instructions, and present your passport and rental documents. Such checks are routine in Israel.

What is the best navigation app for driving in Israel?

Waze is the top choice, with live traffic data, local hazards, and accurate routing. It outperforms Google Maps and Apple Maps in Israel.

How do I interpret parking curb colors in Israel?

Red-white: no parking; blue-white: paid parking (use app or meter); grey/no color: free parking unless otherwise posted.

How do I pay for street parking, and which apps should I use?

Use Pango or Cellopark apps – both accept UK credit cards. Enter your registration, start the timer on arrival, and stop it when you leave. This is more convenient than coins or meters.

Are there toll roads in Israel? How do I pay?

Yes, notably Highway 6 uses automatic number plate recognition and bills the rental company, who charge your card plus a service fee. Carmel Tunnels (Haifa) have manned toll booths accepting cash or credit cards.

How do I refuel a rental car in Israel?

Most stations are self-service. Park by a pump, select fuel (ask staff if unsure), insert your credit card, follow prompts (English is available), refuel, and print a receipt if needed. Some stations offer attended service at a higher price.

What is petrol and diesel called in Israel?

Petrol is 'Benzin 95' and diesel is 'Solar.' Always confirm which fuel your rental car uses before refueling.

Are petrol stations easy to find, and do they accept UK credit cards?

Yes, stations are widespread along highways and in cities. Most self-service pumps accept international credit cards including UK-issued Visa and Mastercard.

Can I drive a rental car from Israel into Jordan or Egypt?

No. Israeli rental insurance does not cover border crossings. Park on the Israeli side, cross on foot, and arrange separate transport in the neighboring country.

Can I take a rental car into the West Bank (Palestinian Authority areas)?

No. Standard rental contracts forbid driving into Palestinian Authority A and B zones (e.g., Bethlehem, Jericho, Ramallah). Insurance is void there. Park near checkpoints and use local taxis for visits.

Is it safe to drive to the Golan Heights?

Yes, within Israeli-controlled areas. Roads are good and the region is scenic. Avoid approaching borders with Syria and heed local security advice.

Can I drive inside Jerusalem's Old City?

No. The Old City is mostly pedestrian and too narrow for cars. Park outside (Mamilla Mall, Karta lot) and walk in.

What should I consider when driving in desert areas like the Negev?

Keep your tank full, carry extra water, check weather for flash flood risks (especially in winter), and be aware that cell signal may be patchy. Download offline maps as backup.

What should I do if I hear a missile siren while driving?

Safely pull over (not under bridges), exit the car, proceed to the nearest building or shelter, or lie flat on the ground if no shelter is available. Wait 10 minutes after the siren ends.

Is it problematic to drive through ultra-Orthodox neighborhoods during Shabbat?

Yes. In areas like Mea Shearim (Jerusalem), driving on Shabbat is considered offensive and roads may be blocked. Avoid these neighborhoods during Shabbat.

What should I do before returning my rental car?

Refuel to full if required (keep the receipt), remove all personal items, and check for new damage. Adhere to your rental's fuel policy.

What if I am late returning the rental car?

Most companies allow a 30–59 minute grace period. Beyond that, you may be charged for an extra day. Notify the rental company if you expect to be late.

Should I have the car inspected at return?

Yes, have a staff member check the car and issue a receipt confirming its condition and full tank. If returning after hours, take detailed photos or video as proof.

How are traffic fines (speeding, parking) handled with a rental car?

Fines are sent to the rental company, who pay them and then charge your credit card plus an administrative fee.

What should I do if I have a car accident?

Ensure safety first. Call emergency services (100 police, 101 ambulance) if needed, do not move vehicles unless necessary, contact the rental company, exchange info with other parties, take photos, and obtain a police report.

What if the rental car breaks down (e.g., flat tire)?

Call the roadside assistance number provided in your rental contract. The company will arrange repairs or a replacement vehicle.

What if I see an unexplained charge on my credit card after returning the car?

Contact the rental company for a detailed breakdown. It may be for tolls, fines, or alleged damage. Dispute charges with supporting photos if necessary.

Should I return the car at the airport or in the city?

Airport returns are convenient for departing flights and usually 24/7. City returns may avoid airport fees but watch out for limited opening hours, especially around Shabbat.

Are there any pitfalls with the 'full-to-full' fuel policy?

If you forget to refuel or lack a receipt, the rental company refuels at a premium rate plus service charge. Always refuel within 5-10 km of the return location and keep your receipt.

What is the single most important tip for UK drivers renting a car in Israel?

Stay calm and patient, take time to adjust to right-side driving, trust your navigation app (Waze), purchase full insurance for peace of mind, and enjoy your journey!

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Israel for UK Travelers

Embarking on a road trip in Israel offers a unique way to explore its historical sites and diverse landscapes. If you're traveling from the United Kingdom, common questions often arise:

Can British Citizens Drive in North Macedonia?

Ready to Rent?

Top Car Rental Companies in Israel

Tailored Car Rental Advice for British Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Popular Destinations for Car Rentals in Israel

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Israel?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Differences and Similarities in Traffic Rules between GB and IL

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations

Embarking on a road trip in Israel offers a unique way to explore its historical sites and diverse landscapes.
If you're traveling from the United Kingdom, common questions often arise: