How Ukrainians can obtain or exchange a driver's license in Israel in 2025: documents, prices, and step-by-step instructions

Ukrainians in Israel can exchange their driver's licenses without taking a full exam, but under certain conditions. Find out who is eligible, what documents are required, and how to complete the procedure in 2025

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With the start of full-scale war in Ukraine, tens of thousands of Ukrainians found themselves in Israel — as temporary migrants, temporary protection holders, or on the basis of family reunification. For many of them, the question arises: how to legally drive a car in Israel, and what to do with a Ukrainian driver's license?

This article provides complete instructions on who, when, and how to exchange a driver's license, how much it costs, and what documents are required.

Can I drive a car in Israel with a Ukrainian driver's license?

Yes, but only for a limited period. According to the rules, Ukrainian citizens can use their national driver's license for up to 12 months from the date of entry into Israel. After 1 year, driving with a Ukrainian license is considered illegal if the license has not been officially exchanged or if the process of obtaining an Israeli license has not been initiated.

Important: The 12-month period from the date of entry is standard, but it may be shortened or extended depending on your visa or immigration status.

Read also: New entry rules for Ukrainians in Israel – everything you need to know in 2025.

Who can exchange their Ukrainian driver's license for an Israeli one without taking a training course?

Israel allows a simplified license exchange procedure for new immigrants (olim), persons with temporary protection status, or those with a long-term visa. Exchange without full training is possible if:

● your Ukrainian driver's license was issued at least 6 months before your arrival in Israel;

● you have been driving for at least 5 years;

● your license is valid (not expired).

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How to exchange your driver's license in Israel: step by step

Step 1: Check your status

Check your immigration status — this will determine whether you are eligible for a simplified exchange. In most cases, the following will suffice:

● temporary protection status (e.g., for Ukrainian refugees);

● temporary residence visa;

● new repatriate status.

Step 2: Medical examination

Fill out the “green form” (טופס ירוק) at a doctor's office + undergo an examination by an ophthalmologist.

Step 3: Submit an application

Submit an application to one of the licensed centers of the Ministry of Transport (Misrad HaRishui) or online if you have electronic identification.

Step 4: Exam (if necessary)

Depending on your experience and type of license, you may be assigned only a practical test (without theory) or a full exam.

Step 5: Obtaining an Israeli license

After passing the exam (or without it), you will receive a temporary Israeli license, which will later be replaced with a plastic card.

What documents do Ukrainians need to exchange their driver's license in Israel?

To apply for an Israeli driver's license, you need:

1. A valid Ukrainian driver's license

2. Document confirming your legal status in Israel (visa, temporary protection certificate, new immigrant certificate)

3. Identification number (teudat zehut or equivalent)

4. Health certificate (טופס ירוק / “green form”) — to be completed by your family doctor

5. Medical examination by a licensed ophthalmologist

6. Payment of state fees (approximately 100–200 shekels)

7. Proof of driving experience — can be obtained from the service center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine or through a notarized translation

Read also: How to obtain a criminal record certificate in Israel?

How long does it take to obtain a driver's license in Israel?

The minimum period is 2 to 4 weeks if the documents are in order and no test is required. With a test, it can take up to 2-3 months, depending on the queue and availability of dates.

How much does it cost to get a license in Israel?

● Medical form — from 100 shekels.

● State fee — about 180 shekels.

● Practical test (if required) — approximately 300-400 shekels.

● Translation and notary services — depending on the volume.

Important details that Ukrainians should know

1. Old-style Ukrainian licenses that do not comply with the international format may require additional confirmation.

2. The exchange of licenses does not provide for the automatic recognition of all categories, in particular for trucks or buses.

3. If your Ukrainian license has been revoked or is invalid, you can only obtain an Israeli license by completing a full training course.

How can Visit Ukraine lawyers help you obtain an Israeli license?

If you need help with documents, language barriers, or communication with Israeli government agencies, Visit Ukraine's team of immigration lawyers can advise you on driver's license exchange and assist you with:

● translation and legalization of Ukrainian documents;

● confirmation of driving experience;

● registration with the Israeli Ministry of Transport.

Leave a request on the Visit Ukraine website, and we will accompany you at every stage of the driver's license exchange procedure in Israel.

We remind you! It is possible to obtain Israeli citizenship through Jewish ancestry up to the third generation. Read about the necessary documents, the procedure, and how to obtain legal assistance in our previous article.

Photo: aic.org.il

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