No More Automatic Court Hearings: Israel Expands Administrative System for Traffic Tickets

Israel's traffic enforcement system has entered a new phase, with drivers no longer able to automatically request court hearings for a broader range of violations. Instead, motorists cited for certain offenses must first appeal through an administrative traffic tribunal.

The expanded system, part of what is known as the "Sa'ar Reform," Took effect on August 8 and now covers speeding violations and offenses carrying fines between 750 and 1,500 shekels. An initial phase launched on February 8, 2026, had applied only to violations with fines between 100 and 500 shekels, excluding speeding.

The reform was introduced when Gideon Sa'ar served as justice minister. According to Sa'ar, the initiative reflected "a policy of decriminalization" And would spare drivers "unnecessary criminal proceedings and court appearances." The system aims to remove a significant portion of traffic cases from criminal courts and process them administratively through digital means.

Under the new framework, drivers must file appeals with the administrative tribunal rather than request traditional court hearings. Most cases are decided based on written submissions and electronic evidence from both parties. A hearing may be held if the tribunal determines one is necessary, typically conducted remotely or, in exceptional cases, in person.

The administrative tribunal cannot adjust fines based on individual circumstances if a violation is upheld, though it may uphold, dismiss, or modify citations. Judicial review remains available, as final decisions can be appealed to the Traffic Division of the Magistrate's Court.

The Israel Bar Association's Traffic Law Committee expressed concern during the legislative process that the changes could weaken motorist protections. Supporters argued the reform would resolve cases more efficiently and questioned the need for the full criminal court system to handle routine violations.

Following the initial rollout, the Knesset Economic Affairs Committee heard that only nine of approximately 500 appeals filed under the new process had been accepted. Committee chairman MK David Bitan called for greater flexibility for law-abiding drivers.

The committee also approved revisions to the driver's license point system. Offenses carrying up to six penalty points will now be removed from a driver's record after one year, while penalties have been increased for dangerous violations including cellphone use while driving, running red lights, and driving on road shoulders.