About 80% of Israeli taxi drivers failed to turn on their meters during a nationwide undercover operation by the Tax Authority’s bookkeeping unit, officials said Monday. The inspections, part of the “Good Ride” reform with the Transportation Ministry, checked compliance with the law requiring the use of “smart meters” to record trip data and fares.
The operation, which included roughly 100 inspections nationwide, also uncovered irregularities such as duplicate license plates and unauthorized smart meters. Drivers found violating the law are being summoned for questioning and could face sanctions, including book invalidation and tax assessments.
Under the current law, only licensed taxi drivers with permits and green number plates are allowed to transport paying passengers at regulated fares. Currently, there are approximately 30,000 authorized drivers operating in Israel.
However, growing participation of drivers operating in the ultra-Orthodox sector operates without licenses, insurance, or regulatory oversight, undercutting those who have completed training courses, passed tests, and invested about NIS 200,000 to obtain a certification.
Uber to return to Israel?
Transportation Minister Miri Regev approved the entry of the Uber-hailing app Uber to Israel in September, which was met with criticism by leaders in the Taxi Drivers’ Association.
Uber withdrew from the Israeli market in 2023, citing a need to focus on its main global markets.
“If you want to regulate the passenger transport sector, then change the law and create full equality for taxi drivers, who today are subject to a long list of rules and regulations, including costly and lengthy training,” said the chairman of the organization's Histadrut’s independent forum, Zohar Golan.