Regev Reportedly Signs Rules Expanding B Licenses to 4.25-Ton Electric Vans

Transport Minister Miri Regev reportedly signed an amendment to Israel's Traffic Regulations on November 9 that would expand the vehicles permitted under B and C1 driving licenses. The reported change would allow drivers who have held a B license for at least two years to drive approved zero-emission electric commercial vehicles weighing up to 4,250 kilograms, above the ordinary 3,500-kilogram ceiling. Under the reported conditions, the extra weight must come from the propulsion system rather than additional cargo capacity, and the vehicle must receive Licensing Authority approval. The change is intended to accommodate the weight of electric batteries without requiring drivers using equivalent commercial vehicles to obtain a C1 license. Regev and ministry director-general Moshe Ben Zaken were quoted as presenting the amendment as a way to reduce bureaucracy and adapt licensing to heavier propulsion and protective equipment. The reported amendment also covers bullet-resistant vehicles weighing up to four tons used by local emergency response squads, subject to Home Front Command approval. It provides accommodations for armored vehicles owned by police, government ministries and their subsidiary units. C1 licenses currently cover commercial and work vehicles above 3.5 tons and up to 12 tons; the amendment would extend eligible vehicle types to private motor vehicles in that weight range, excluding private buses and subject to the applicable legal limitations. The amendment is not yet in force. Publication in Reshumot, Israel's official gazette, is required, with commencement governed by the published provisions.