Drivers License in Japan
It may be difficult to drive in a foreign country. Road signs in Japanese can be perplexing, which can make you nervous while driving.The following information will help you feel more at ease before you hit the road in Japan. You can also learn how to translate your driver's license from English to Japanese.
Please also check Driving in Japan: Basic Rules of the Road before you start driving in Japan.
What Do I Need to Drive in Japan?
International Driving Permit
Please keep in mind that the International Driving Permit (IDP) is only for short-term visitors, not for middle/long-term residents with a registered address in Japan. Those who intend to drive only occasionally are also encouraged to apply for this license conversion as soon as possible.
IDP is valid for up to one year on the condition that:
1) Not more than one year from the date of issue
2) Not more than one year from your date of entry to Japan
The shorter period of the above is your permitted driving period in Japan
Valid International Driving Permit in Japan
(International Driving Permits issued by signatory to the 1949 Geneva Convention)
International Driving Permit English PDF
Valid Foreign Driving License in Japan
(For license issued in Switzerland, Slovenia, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco, Taiwan)
Foreign Driver's License English PDF
JAF Global Support
(Please access here for Japanese Translation for your foreign license)
www.jaf.or.jp/inter/translation/index_e.htm
How Can I Convert my Driver's License to Japanese?
These mentioned below are exempt from the written and practical driving tests.
Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, The Netherlands, U.K., U.S.A. (Hawaii, Maryland, Virginia and Washington only), as of September 2020
If your license was issued in a country that is not listed above, you must take a written, driving, and vision test. For example, the United States, Hong Kong, India, and so on.
It may be difficult to complete all steps alone if you do not speak Japanese. Most Driver's License Centers require you to bring someone who speaks Japanese with you.
How to convert your license (PDF)RULES OF THE ROAD
We strongly advise you to buy one of these books in your native language and learn about Japanese driving rules.
JAF (Japan Automobile Federation) publishes and sells foreign language versions of the "Rules of the Road" to assist foreign motorists in understanding Japanese traffic rules and avoiding traffic accidents. There are both digital and printed formats available.
You may also be interested in reading:
Car Seats and Booster Seats for Children in Japan
Japan Traffic Violations: Demerit Point System & Ticket Colors
Driving on Japan’s Highways and Toll Roads
Child Car Seat Safety in Japan
Gas Stations in Japan - How to fill up
English speaking car dealers in Japan
While Japan has a large number of motor companies, those that can provide services in English are limited. We have a list of car dealers that are able to assist you by suggesting solutions that are appropriate for your needs.
Leasing Cars in Japan
Leasing a car is an excellent method to avoid taking out a loan or making a significant down payment. You can also learn the differences between Leasing, Renting and Purchasing a car in Japan.
Car Seats and Booster Seats for Children in Japan
If you drive with children in Japan, you must be aware of the Japanese laws regarding child safety in automobiles. Here is the guide how you can prepare before riding a car with your child.
Cycling in Japan: Bicycle Rules & Regulations
Cycling in Japan is enjoyable if you follow the regulations. If you wish to ride a bicycle in and around Japan, there are a few things you should know first.
Buying New / Used Cars in Japan
Here is how to purchase a car in Japan. You can learn what you will need to prepare as documents and useful tips.
Catching A Taxi in Japan
Catching a taxi in Japan is a very straightforward and civilized process. You can either hail one from the street, wait for one at a taxi stand, or reserve one online or over the phone.
