We will guide you through the procedures for converting a foreign driver’s license to a Japanese driver’s license.
To convert your license, there are two main steps and several important exams you need to pass. The process is as follows:
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Passing the document review (background check): This step verifies your foreign license and ensures it meets Japanese standards. You’ll need to provide necessary documents, such as your original foreign license, passport, and visa status.
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Passing the written test: The written test covers traffic rules in Japan, and you may need to study the Japanese road code. It’s offered in multiple languages, including English, but it’s highly recommended to prepare in advance.
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Passing the driving test: If required, you will need to take a practical driving test to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a vehicle according to Japanese traffic laws.
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Issuance of the Japanese license: After successfully completing the previous steps, you will be issued a Japanese driver’s license, allowing you to drive legally in Japan.
It’s important to note that the specific process can vary depending on your country of origin and the region of Japan where you apply. Some countries have agreements with Japan that may allow for a simplified process, so be sure to check the details before beginning your application.
What to Expect from the Written Test for Converting Your Foreign Driver’s License
The written test consists of 10 questions that focus on basic Japanese traffic laws. To pass, you must correctly answer at least 7 out of the 10 questions. The questions are in a true or false format, making it easier to understand and answer. Additionally, the test is available in 24 languages, allowing foreign applicants to take the exam in their native language.
For example:
- Vehicles must travel on the right side of the road. → ✕
- Inner wheel difference refers to the difference in trajectory caused by the rear wheels of a vehicle following a path inside that of the front wheels when turning. → ○
What to Expect from the Driving Test for Converting Your Foreign Driver’s License in Japan
Japan has strict driving rules compared to many other countries, and as a result, many foreigners find themselves having to take the driving test multiple times before passing. It’s important to be well-prepared for the test, as the driving procedures in Japan may differ from those in your home country.
To help you pass the driving test, ASAHI MOTORS has prepared a comprehensive handbook with useful tips and guidance. You can access it here: ASAHI MOTORS Driving Test Handbook.
Exemptions from the Written and Driving Tests
If you’re from one of the following 29 countries, you may be exempt from both the written and driving tests when converting your foreign driver’s license to a Japanese one:
- Iceland, Ireland, United States (Ohio, Oregon, Colorado, Virginia, Hawaii, Maryland, Washington), United Kingdom, Italy, Australia, Austria, Netherlands, Canada, South Korea, Greece, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, Slovenia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, New Zealand, Norway, Hungary, Finland, France, Belgium, Poland, Portugal, Monaco, Luxembourg, Taiwan
For those from the United States, individuals from Indiana are only exempt from the driving test but still need to pass the written test.
Being aware of these details can help you prepare more effectively for the conversion process.
Test Location for Converting Your Foreign Driver’s License
The written and driving tests are conducted at the driver’s license examination center that has jurisdiction over the area where you reside. These centers are located throughout Japan, and you will be assigned to the nearest one based on your registered address.
Before attending the test, it’s a good idea to confirm the location and schedule, as some centers may have specific hours for foreign license conversions. Make sure to bring all required documents and prepare ahead of time to ensure a smooth process.
For more detailed and official information about obtaining a Japanese driver’s license, you can refer to the following resources:
- Japan National Police Agency – Driver’s License Information
https://www.npa.go.jp/english/index.html
This page provides basic information about driver’s licenses in Japan, including requirements and procedures. - Local Driver’s License Centers
https://www.keishicho.metro.tokyo.lg.jp
This site provides contact details and information about the driver’s license examination centers in Tokyo. You can search for similar websites for other prefectures in Japan to find specific locations and contact information.
By visiting these official resources, you can stay up-to-date with the most accurate information and procedures for converting your foreign driver’s license to a Japanese one.
Reception Hours
The driver’s license examination center is open from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM (excluding the lunch break from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM). Please note that some locations can be very crowded, especially during peak hours, and you might have to wait for several hours. Therefore, it is highly recommended to arrive and line up before 8:30 AM, when the center opens, to ensure you can complete your procedures as smoothly as possible.
Fees
- Standard: 2,550 yen
- Issuance fee: 2,050 yen
- Additional note fee: 200 yen
These fees apply when you apply for your driver’s license conversion. Be sure to have the correct amount prepared when you visit the driver’s license examination center.
For more details on fees and procedures, please refer to the official police website:
Required Documents
- A valid foreign driver’s license.
・ If the date of issue is not stated, a document proving the date of issue (such as a driver’s record) is required. - A Japanese translation of the above driver’s license (must be prepared by one of the following):
・The embassy of the relevant country in Japan
・Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) - Japanese driver’s license (if you have obtained one in the past or currently hold one).
- A copy of your residence certificate (with nationality) in Japan (copies not accepted).
・Submit a residence certificate without a My Number (individual number).
・For those who have deregistered their residence certificate due to overseas assignments, a full copy of the family register, a partial copy of the family register, or a copy of the deregistered residence certificate with nationality is required.
・Additionally, submit a temporary return (stay) certificate at your residence in Tokyo and a copy of the ID of the certifier that confirms their address. - Passport, etc.
・Presentation only (one of the following):
・Passport
・ID issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
・ID issued by an authorized institution - Proof of residence at the address used for the license application.
- Proof that you stayed in the country where you obtained your driver’s license for a total of three months or more after obtaining the license (such as a passport).
・Please bring all old passports.
・If you used an automated gate when entering or leaving the country, obtain an entry/exit record certificate from the country where you obtained your driver’s license.
・Even if you did not use an automated gate, an entry/exit record certificate may still be required. - Application photo (to be attached to the application form):
・3 cm tall × 2.4 cm wide (1 photo) - A list of your stay periods in the country where you obtained your driver’s license.
In Conclusion
Rules vary by prefecture, so please contact the driver’s license examination center with jurisdiction over your area for detailed information.
引用元・参考資料：警視庁ホームページ「外国で取得した運転免許証を日本の運転免許証に切替えるには」
Source and Reference: Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department website “How to Convert a Foreign Driver’s License to a Japanese Driver’s License”
This page is translated and posted to make it easier for foreigners to understand.
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