Israel Proposes Major Reform to Disabled Parking Permit System

Israel is considering a significant overhaul of its disabled parking permit system, aiming to tighten eligibility and re-evaluate existing permits. The proposed changes, detailed in a guide published by the Hamal Bar Gefen website, would shift the primary responsibility for medical assessments to the National Insurance Institute and other government bodies, reducing the Ministry of Transport's direct role in medical evaluations. The new framework would base eligibility on existing recognition of medical or functional conditions rather than general disability percentages alone. Proposed pathways for eligibility include mobility issues, special services, disabled children, and specific government-recognized groups. For instance, the mobility pathway might require at least 40% medical disability and 60% mobility impairment, or wheelchair use. Similarly, special services eligibility would depend on specific medical disability rates and caregiving allowance levels. This means a high general disability rating would not automatically grant a permit.

The reform could impact hundreds of thousands of current permit holders. Approximately 313,000 permits are set to expire from 2028 onwards, including about 295,000 permanent ones. The recommendation is to re-examine these permits and potentially revoke up to 75,000 annually that no longer meet the new criteria. Holders would receive at least six months' notice before their permit expires. A review of permits for individuals over 80 is also proposed, though permanent permits for this age group might be retained, with new applications still subject to the updated criteria. The system aims to ensure permits are granted based on functional needs, not solely on a diagnosis of a severe illness like autism or Parkinson's, unless it directly impacts functionality and fits into an approved pathway.

Further proposed changes include limiting permits to one vehicle at a time, with a streamlined process for switching vehicles. Parents of disabled children might retain the option of two vehicles, but with digital oversight to prevent simultaneous use. The Ministry of Transport would also verify that the vehicle is regularly used by the permit holder. Additionally, the proposal suggests exploring a 15-minute parking limit in restricted areas for permit holders, though this remains under consideration. Those whose applications are denied will have one appeal option, with medical re-evaluations to be handled by the relevant government body, not the Ministry of Transport directly. New applications following a medical change can be submitted after six months.