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Thrifty · Israel

Does Thrifty require an IDP in Israel?

Recommended
Israel lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but Thrifty still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
Get my permit for Israel All Thrifty requirements
Thrifty in Israel
Thrifty IDP policyRequired for non-Roman-alphabet licences
Thrifty footprintGlobal
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Minimum rental age17+ (surcharge under 25)
Drives on theRight

Thrifty in Israel: the policy in plain terms

Requires an IDP in select countries and for non-Roman-alphabet licences. Budget-friendly brand paired with Dollar in many markets.

Visitors can drive on a valid foreign licence for up to one year; an IDP is recommended for non-Latin-script licences.

In Israel specifically, israel lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but Thrifty still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter. Recommended; required for some non-Latin scripts.

Thrifty runs a global network; at its Israel desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Israel drives on the right, uses the ILS, and sets a minimum driving age of 17; an IDP is still the safest way to avoid a refused booking.

What to bring to the Thrifty counter in Israel

  • Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
  • Your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format.
  • Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
  • Local payment for the ILS deposit; Israel drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.

Driving rules in Israel Thrifty renters should know

  • Headlights on inter-urban roads, Nov–Mar.
  • 0.05% alcohol limit; 0.01% for new/young drivers.
  • Highway 6 uses automatic plate tolling.
  • Seatbelts mandatory.

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to rent from Thrifty in Israel?
Israel lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but Thrifty still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
02
What documents should I bring to the Thrifty desk in Israel?
Bring your original national driving licence, your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format, your passport, and the payment card in the main driver's name. Israel drives on the right and the minimum rental age is typically 17+.
03
What is Thrifty's general policy on International Driving Permits?
Requires an IDP in select countries and for non-Roman-alphabet licences. Budget-friendly brand paired with Dollar in many markets.
All Thrifty countriesDriving in Israel