Israeli Bus Drivers to Receive Up to 1,700 Shekels Monthly Bonus for Excellence

Approximately 2,000 drivers at Kavim bus company will benefit from a new collective agreement that includes a 6-shekel bonus per hour worked, potentially adding up to 1,700 shekels monthly. The agreement, announced on August 18, 2026, also introduces a performance-based reward system called "Safety and Service Quality," which can increase drivers' pay by about 10% based on punctuality, safe driving, and passenger service quality.

The agreement aims to incentivize higher service standards in public transportation by financially rewarding drivers who meet professional criteria and demonstrate superior performance. Additional benefits include an increased welfare budget of nearly one million shekels annually, holiday bonuses of 700 shekels per year, and daily meal allowances of up to 24 shekels via a subsidized card.

Drivers will also receive legal support for traffic-related issues, a signing bonus of up to 1,000 shekels, and continued seniority pay accumulation without limits. Hourly wages will be adjusted biannually according to the cost-of-living index. The agreement provides for an annual employee vacation or a 1,400-shekel substitute payment in years without a trip. A mutual aid fund will be established to assist employees facing financial hardship, alongside a formal appeal process for disciplinary decisions by branch managers.