Knesset panel approves major overhaul of traffic violation points system

The Knesset Economic Committee on Monday approved new regulations that significantly reshape Israel’s traffic violation points system. The changes were advanced by the Transport Ministry to align the rules with the administrative traffic offenses law that took effect on February 8. The regulations will take effect about 30 days after publication in the official records.

Under the new framework, points for violations carrying up to 6 points will expire after one year instead of two, while offenses rated at 8 or 10 points will remain on record for two years. If a driver commits several violations in one incident, only the points for the most serious offense will be recorded. The committee also approved eliminating points entirely for entering an intersection that cannot be cleared.

Several penalties will become harsher. Using a mobile phone while driving, running a red light, failing to give way at a crosswalk, and driving on the shoulder will rise from 8 to 10 points. The committee also approved lowering the points for driving with an invalid license. During the discussion, committee chairman David Bitan checked whether the ministry had kept its promise to ease sanctions for minor offenses. Transport Ministry representative Chava Reuveni replied, “Not 100%, but close.”

The committee had delayed approval two weeks earlier until the ministry delivered on that pledge. Industry representatives warned about the impact of the reform. Gabi Ben Harosh, head of the HaMovilim VehaMessi’im council, said tougher points rules could worsen the shortage of professional drivers. Kfir Dor of the Israel Bar Association argued the amendment still does not sufficiently distinguish between professional drivers and private motorists. Ouz Dror of Or Yarok called for public release of data on how the law is being implemented and what effect it has had.