International Driving License

Holders of an international driving license will need the following three items when using it in Japan:

  • The original of an international driving license based on the Geneva Convention, or the original of a foreign driving license plus an official Japanese translation.
  • Passport.
  • A telephone number that can be used for calls within Japan.

Notes on Using an International License in Japan

We provide support in three languages: Japanese, English, and Chinese.

About the International Driving License

The validity of an international driving license is one year from the date of issue and within one year from the date of entry into Japan.

Furthermore, if a person recorded in Japan’s Basic Resident Register leaves Japan with confirmed departure or re-entry permission, and obtains a new international driving license during a stay of less than three months abroad before re-entering Japan, the day of re-entry does not count as the start of the driving period for the international driving license, thus, they cannot drive in Japan with that license.

About Foreign Driving Licenses

If you hold a driving license from Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco, or Taiwan, you can drive in Japan for one year after landing by carrying a Japanese translation of the license.

Issuing Japanese Translations of Licenses

Japanese translations can be issued by the embassies or consulates of each country.

A Japanese translation issued by JAF (Japan Automobile Federation) or Zip Plus Inc. is required.
For Taiwan, a Japanese translation issued by the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Japan, JAF, or Zip Plus Inc. is necessary.