Driving in Japan offers a unique experience—smooth highways, orderly traffic, and strict regulations that keep roads among the safest in the world. But for foreigners, one of the most confusing aspects of life in Japan is figuring out whether their home country’s license is valid and how to switch to a Japanese license.

In this article, we will break down everything you need to know about using a foreign driver’s license in Japan, the process of converting it into a Japanese license, and which countries have agreements that make the process easier.

Driving in Japan with a Foreign License

Foreigners cannot simply use their home country’s license in Japan long-term. The rules depend on two main categories:

  1. International Driving Permit (IDP) holders
    • If you obtained an IDP under the 1949 Geneva Convention, you can legally drive in Japan for up to one year from your date of entry.
    • You must carry both your IDP and your original driver’s license at all times.
    • After one year, the permit cannot be renewed inside Japan—you must leave the country and re-enter to reset the validity period.
  2. Foreign licenses with official Japanese translation
    • Citizens of certain countries can drive for up to one year using their home license along with an official Japanese translation issued by the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) or their embassy.
    • This applies to countries like Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco, and Taiwan.

Beyond these conditions, anyone planning to stay longer must switch to a Japanese license.

Converting a Foreign License into a Japanese License

This process is called “gaimen kirikae” (外免切替), meaning foreign license conversion. The difficulty depends heavily on your country of origin.

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Prepare the necessary documents:
    • Valid foreign driver’s license
    • Official Japanese translation (issued by JAF or embassy)
    • Passport (to prove your stay outside Japan for at least 3 months after license issuance)
    • Residence card (在留カード)
    • Photo (3cm × 2.4cm)
    • Application form (available at the licensing center)
  2. Written test (for some applicants):
    • A short test (10 multiple-choice questions) on Japanese traffic rules.
    • Questions are simple but require familiarity with Japanese signage and regulations.
  3. Practical driving test (for non-exempt countries):
    • Conducted at a driving test center on a designated course.
    • Examiners focus on precision, signaling, and safe habits rather than speed.
    • Many foreigners fail the first attempt due to unfamiliarity with Japanese testing style.
  4. Eye test:
    • Standard vision check.
  5. Issuance of Japanese license:
    • Once all steps are passed, you receive your official Japanese license (valid for 3 to 5 years depending on age and status).

Countries with License Conversion Agreements

Some countries and regions have reciprocal agreements with Japan. Drivers from these countries are exempt from both the written and practical exams—they only need to submit documents and pass the eye test.

Countries with Exemption from Tests:

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Denmark
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Luxembourg
  • Monaco
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Portugal
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • United Kingdom
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • Canada
  • Taiwan
  • South Korea

These drivers only need to provide proof that they lived in their home country for at least three months after obtaining their license.

Countries Requiring Written and Practical Tests

For all other countries, including the United States, China, India, Philippines, Vietnam, and most of South America, applicants must take both the written and practical exams.

This creates a common frustration among U.S. citizens, since driving styles and traffic systems are not drastically different from Japan. However, without an agreement, the Japanese government requires them to prove driving ability through testing.

Why Some Countries Have Easier Conversion

The agreements are based on reciprocity—Japan allows simplified conversion for citizens of countries that grant the same privilege to Japanese drivers. Where reciprocity does not exist, Japan maintains stricter requirements.

Tips for a Successful Conversion

  • Study Japanese driving etiquette: Examiners expect extremely cautious driving—checking mirrors, exaggerated head movements, and precise signaling.
  • Take a practice lesson: Many driving schools offer short preparation courses specifically for foreigners attempting the test.
  • Be patient: It’s common to fail the first attempt, especially the practical test. Persistence is key.
  • Start early: The conversion process may take weeks due to scheduling delays at licensing centers.

Final Thoughts

For short-term visitors, an International Driving Permit is usually sufficient. But for anyone planning to live in Japan, converting to a Japanese license is essential.

The process is straightforward for those from agreement countries, but can be challenging for others who must pass the rigorous driving test. Still, many foreigners manage to succeed with preparation and persistence.

Driving in Japan may feel intimidating at first, but once licensed, you’ll find that Japan’s safe, orderly roads are a pleasure to navigate.