Driving Schools in Japan

Drive on the Left (左側通行) — Japan drives on the left side of the road. Overtake only on the right. At unmarked intersections, yield to vehicles coming from the left. The steering wheel is on the right side of the vehicle.

No Turn on Red (赤信号) — Unlike many countries, there is absolutely no turning on red in any direction in Japan — neither left nor right. You may only proceed on a green arrow signal (青色矢印信号). This applies at all intersections regardless of traffic conditions.

Beginner Mark (初心者マーク/若葉マーク) — New drivers must display the beginner mark — a green and yellow arrow — on the front and rear of their vehicle for 1 year after obtaining their licence. Other drivers are legally required not to tailgate or cut off vehicles displaying this mark. Failure to display: ¥4,000 fine and 1 demerit point.

Elderly Mark (高齢者マーク) — Drivers aged 70 and over are recommended (not mandatory) to display the elderly driver mark — an orange, yellow, and green teardrop design. As with the beginner mark, other drivers should give consideration to marked vehicles.

BAC 0.03% — Third-Party Liability — Blood alcohol limit is 0.03% (0.15 mg/L breath). Japan uniquely holds third parties liable: the vehicle owner, the person who provided alcohol, and passengers who knew the driver was intoxicated can ALL be criminally prosecuted. Tipsy driving: ¥300,000–500,000 fine + 90-day suspension. Intoxicated driving: up to 5 years prison + ¥1,000,000 fine + licence revocation.

Shaken — Biennial Vehicle Inspection (車検) — All registered vehicles must pass the Shaken (車検) inspection. New cars: first inspection after 3 years, then every 2 years. Cost: ¥100,000–200,000+ depending on vehicle age and type. Driving without valid Shaken: up to 6 months imprisonment or ¥300,000 fine.