Obtaining a Driving License in Japan

Obtaining a Driving License in Japan

Written by Yogi (Yogendra Puranik), PhD, on 21-May-2026

There are two ways to obtain a driving license in Japan. One, by converting a foreign driving license to a Japanese license. Two, directly obtaining a Japanese driving license.

Converting a Foreign Driving License to a Japanese License

Japan has a highly organized transportation system, and many foreigners living in the country eventually need a Japanese driving license. Fortunately, Japan allows residents from many countries to convert their existing foreign license into a Japanese one through a process called “Gaimen Kirikae” (外国免許切替), meaning “conversion of a foreign license.” However, the process can vary significantly depending on your nationality, driving history, and the prefecture where you apply. Proper preparation is essential.

1. Basic Eligibility Requirements

To convert a foreign license to a Japanese one, you generally need to:

• Possess a valid driving license from your home country

• Prove that you stayed in the issuing country for at least three months after obtaining the license

• Be a legal resident of Japan with a valid residence card

• Obtain an official Japanese translation of your license

The three-month rule is particularly important. If you obtained the license shortly before moving to Japan, the application may be rejected.

2. Countries Exempt from Driving Tests

Residents from certain countries, such as Germany, France, Switzerland, Belgium, Taiwan, South Korea, and Monaco, may be exempt from the written and practical driving tests because Japan recognizes the equivalency of their licensing systems. Applicants from countries such as India, China, Nepal, Pakistan, Brazil, the Philippines, the United States (most states), and many others usually need to take additional tests.

3. Required Documents

The required documents typically include:

• Passport (current and old passports if applicable)

• Residence card (zairyu ka-do)

• Foreign driving license

• Official Japanese translation of the license

• Resident certificate (juminhyo)

• Passport-sized photos

• Application form

• Driving history or issuance certificate (sometimes required)

Translations are usually issued by:

• JAF (Japan Automobile Federation)

• Embassy or consulate (for some countries)

4. The Application Process

Step 1: Reservation

Most driving license centers require a reservation. Waiting periods can sometimes be several weeks.

Step 2: Document Screening

Officials carefully verify:

• Authenticity of the license

• Date of issuance

• Overseas stay history

• Immigration records

They may ask detailed questions about:

• How you learnt to drive

• Road conditions in your country

• Traffic rules

Step 3: Aptitude Test

A simple eyesight and color vision test is conducted.

Step 4: Written Test

For many countries, a short　written test is required. It is usually:

• 10 simple true/false questions

• Available in multiple languages

A passing score is generally easy with preparation.

Step 5: Practical Driving Test

This is the most difficult stage for many applicants.

5. Key Points for the Practical Driving Test

The Japanese driving test is not merely about driving ability. It heavily evaluates:

• Safety awareness

• Observation habits

• Precision

• Adherence to procedure

Common reasons for failure include:

• Insufficient mirror checks

• Weak visual confirmation at intersections

• Improper lane positioning

• Driving too fast

• Touching lane lines

• Not checking under the vehicle before entering

Important habits expected:

• Exaggerated mirror and shoulder checks

• Stopping completely at stop signs

• Slowing significantly near intersections

• Checking for pedestrians and bicycles constantly

Many foreigners fail multiple times, not because they cannot drive, but because they are unfamiliar with Japanese testing expectations.

6. Preparation Tips

Take Practice Lessons

Highly recommended. Many driving schools offer:

• Conversion test preparation

• Mock driving tests

• Route familiarization

Even experienced drivers benefit greatly from 3–5 lessons.

Study Japanese Road Culture

Japanese driving emphasizes:

• Caution

• Predictability

• Courtesy

Defensive driving is valued more than confidence.

Observe Local Drivers

Watch:

• Lane discipline

• Stopping behavior

• Pedestrian priority

• Narrow road navigation

Learn Basic Japanese Driving Terms

Even a limited vocabulary can help during instructions.

7. Costs and Duration

Typical costs include:

• Translation fees

• Application fees

• Practice lessons

• Re-test fees

The total cost may range from:

• ¥10,000 to ¥80,000+, depending on the number of attempts

The process may take:

• A few weeks to several months

Getting a Fresh Japanese Driving License

Foreigners who cannot convert their license or who do not possess one can obtain a fresh Japanese license through a driving school or direct examination.

Two Main Methods

1. Driving School Route

Most common and easiest.

Process:

• Enroll in a licensed driving school

• Attend classroom and driving lessons

• Pass written and practical exams

Advantages:

• Structured learning

• Higher pass rate

• Less stress

Disadvantages:

• Expensive (¥250,000–¥400,000)

2. Direct Examination Route (一発試験)

Applicants study independently and take tests directly at the license center.

Advantages:

• Much cheaper

Disadvantages:

• Extremely difficult

• Very low pass rate

• Multiple attempts are often required

Final Thoughts

Obtaining a Japanese driving license is not only about legal permission to drive, it is also an introduction to Japanese discipline, safety culture, and social responsibility. Patience, preparation, and attention to detail are essential. Those who understand the expectations of the Japanese system generally succeed, regardless of nationality or prior driving experience.

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