You can drive in Japan as a foreigner — either with an International Driving Permit (IDP) temporarily, or by converting your foreign license. Here’s how.
Option 1: International Driving Permit (Short-term)
If you’re visiting or just arrived, you can drive with:
- Your home country driver’s license + an International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Valid for 1 year from your entry date
Important: This only works for tourists. Once you’ve lived in Japan for 3 months or more, you need to convert your license.
Option 2: Convert Your Foreign License (Most Common)
Most foreigners convert their existing license to a Japanese one. The process varies by country.
Countries with Simple Conversion (Paper Test Only)
Citizens from these countries typically just need a written knowledge test and vision check — no driving test required:
- Easy countries: Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South Korea, Taiwan, and others
Countries Requiring a Driving Test
For most other countries (Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, China, etc.), you’ll need:
- Written knowledge test (in Japanese or your language at some centers)
- Practical driving test on a test course
This is more involved but very doable with preparation.
Step-by-Step: License Conversion
Go to your local Driver’s License Center (運転免許センター) — Find it in your prefecture (not the police station)
Bring these documents:
- Residence card
- Passport (with entry stamp)
- Current foreign driver’s license + official translation
- Proof your license was issued in your home country (not while abroad)
- My Number card or juminhyo (residence certificate)
- Photos (usually taken there)
- Fee: around ¥4,000–¥8,000
Get official translation of your license:
- Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) provides official translations — https://www.jaf.or.jp/
- Cost: ¥3,000, takes a few days
Complete the tests:
- Vision test (mandatory for everyone)
- Written knowledge test (if required for your country)
- Practical test (if required for your country)
Receive your Japanese license
Written Test Tips
The knowledge test covers Japanese traffic rules. It’s 10 questions, true/false format. Pass mark is 90% (9/10 correct).
Key things to know:
- Speed limits (urban: 60km/h, expressway: 100km/h)
- Left-side driving (Japan drives on the left)
- Parking rules
- Railway crossing rules
Study materials are available in English, Chinese, Tagalog, Portuguese, and other languages at the Driver’s License Center.
Cost Summary
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| JAF translation | ~¥3,000 |
| License conversion fee | ~¥4,000–¥8,000 |
| Driving test (if required) | Included or small extra fee |
Taking Public Transport Instead?
Honestly, in Tokyo and most major cities you don’t need a car. The train network covers almost everything. But if you’re in a rural area or want the freedom, getting your Japanese license is worth it.
Bottom Line
If you’re from a country with a simple conversion process, getting a Japanese license takes one afternoon. If you need a practical test, allow 2–4 visits to the test center. Either way, it’s a one-time process that’s worth doing if you plan to stay long-term.