Israel is heading to the polls, and election authorities and news outlets have published guides to help voters navigate polling stations, identification requirements and the vote-counting process.
where you vote
Every registered Israeli voter is assigned a specific polling station based on the address in the Interior Ministry’s Population Registry. The ministry sends a notification card by mail with the assigned polling station and its hours, but voters are not required to bring the card to the polling place.
how to confirm your polling station
Voters who have not received a notification card or who want to double-check their location can look up their polling station on the Central Elections Committee website by entering their Israeli ID number and the issue date of the ID card. The Interior Ministry also provides information by phone and SMS.
what ID you must bring
Israeli law requires voters to present an original, valid identification document that includes a photograph. Accepted documents include:
- Israeli identity card (standard or biometric; the accompanying address appendix is not required)
- Valid Israeli passport
- Valid Israeli driver’s license with photo
- Knesset member identification card (for Knesset members)
Photocopies, photographs of documents, digital ID images on a smartphone, credit cards, student IDs and military service or reservist cards are not accepted as proof of identity.
the voting process and the double-envelope system
Israel uses procedures that can include a double-envelope system in some cases. Voters who are assigned to special ballots or procedures should follow the instructions provided at their polling station; election officials and the Central Elections Committee provide guidance on site.
practical tips
- Check your polling station in advance: use the Elections Committee website or the Interior Ministry hotline to confirm where to vote.
- Bring an accepted photo ID: originals only; do not rely on phone images or photocopies.
- Keep your notification card: it helps but is not mandatory at the polling place.
Israel Hayom compiled its guide to help voters avoid delays and ensure they bring appropriate identification and know where to vote. For the most current, authoritative instructions, the Central Elections Committee and the Interior Ministry are the official sources of polling-station assignments and voting rules.
