Shuttle Driver vs. Private Driver - What's the Difference

Reading time: about 3 minutes

Not everyone who can drive may carry passengers for payment. The difference between a private car license and a public vehicle license in Israel is significant - and that is exactly what should give you confidence when you board a shuttle.

Requirements for a public vehicle license

While a private car license can be obtained from age 17 and a half, a license to drive a public vehicle starts only at age 20 and a half and requires at least two years of prior experience with a private car or truck license. In addition, it requires a police certificate of good conduct, medical examinations, and a special permit for transporting students when children are involved.

Comprehensive training

The public vehicle driver course includes a theory part of about 150 hours - vehicle knowledge, familiarity with the country, first aid, firefighting and defensive driving - and a practical part of at least 30 driving lessons in varied conditions: urban and intercity roads, wet roads and stressful situations. Only after passing both the theory and practical tests can the license be issued.

Limits on driving hours

A public vehicle driver is currently limited to 12 working hours a day and must use a tachograph that records driving hours - precisely because of the greater responsibility they carry for the passengers. This limit was introduced after cases showed that driving for too long harms safety.

These differences are not accidental - they exist precisely to ensure that whoever drives you or your family has had the right training and carries responsibility that matches the role.