Driving in Japan

For more information about the international driver’s licence, or to apply online for an international driver’s license, please visit the IDLSERVICE website at http://www.idlservice.com/. Make sure that the international driver's licence issued in your country is authorized in Japan!

In many cases, your national driver’s licence and its official translation in Japanese are sufficient to drive in the country for a period up to one year. In order to have your driver’s licence translated, visit your national embassy in Japan or contact the JAF (Japan Automobile Federation). Contact your national embassy or consulate in Japan for more information!

Permanent residents in Japan or foreigners staying in the country for more than a year will have to exchange their national driver’s licence for a Japanese licence. Contact your local prefecture in Japan for more information about driver's licence exchange. Note that fees apply. Sight and hearing examinations are compulsory. Your Japanese driver’s licence will be valid for two years, three years after renewal. If exchange is not possible, you will have to take theoretical and driving tests.

 Good to know:

People drive on the left-hand side of the road in Japan. You may need some time to get accustomed to it if you’re coming from a country where people drive on the right-hand side of the road.

 Useful links:

Japan Automobile Federation

http://www.jaf.or.jp/e/trans_f.htm

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