Driving in Japan can make your travels and sightseeing much more convenient.
Many beautiful destinations are best accessed by car, allowing you to explore Japan more freely and enjoyably.
As you might expect, a valid driver’s license is required to operate a vehicle in Japan.
While many foreigners have licenses issued in their home countries, these cannot always be used directly on Japanese roads.
In this post, we’ll explain the steps you need to take to drive legally in Japan.
For specific countries and regions
First, check if your driver’s license was issued in one of the following countries.
- Switzerland
- Germany
- France
- Belgium
- Taiwan
- Monaco
- Estonia
If your license is from one of these countries, you can drive in Japan by obtaining a Japanese translation of your license.
①If you haven’t arrived in Japan yet, apply for the translation at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country.
②If you’re already in Japan, apply for the translation at the Japan Automobile Federation （JAF）.
The validity period for driving in Japan is either one year from the date of your arrival or the expiration date of your international driver’s license, whichever comes first.
While driving, make sure to carry.
- Your home country’s driver’s license.
- The Japanese translation of your license.
- Your passport.
Member States of the Geneva Convention
If your license is not from one of the countries listed above, check whether your country is a member of the Geneva Convention.
（The list of member countries may change, so always confirm the latest information.）
If your country is a member and issues international driver’s licenses, apply for one through the appropriate authority in your country, such as the Automobile Association or police.
Processing times for international driver’s licenses vary, so it’s advisable to complete the application well before traveling to Japan.
The validity period for driving in Japan is the same: either one year from the date of your arrival or the expiration date of your international driver’s license, whichever is shorter.
While driving, make sure to carry.
- Your international driver’s license.
- Your home country’s driver’s license.
- Your passport.
If Neither Case Applies
If neither of the above situations applies to you, unfortunately, you cannot drive in Japan without additional steps.
You will need to obtain a Japanese driver’s license to legally drive in the country.
For long-term residents, it may be possible to “convert” your foreign license to a Japanese one. In many cases, this process may exempt you from some written or practical tests.
For more information, visit your local driver’s license center.
Driving Tips in Japan
①In Japan, vehicles drive on the left side of the road.
②Avoid excessive use of the horn, as it can lead to unnecessary conflict.
③Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited in Japan and carries severe penalties.
To determine which category you fall into and to learn about the required procedures, consult the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country before your departure.
Alternatively, you can contact a police station or driver’s license center in Japan.
We hope you have a safe and enjoyable driving experience in Japan！
Please “like” this post！
