Updated April 22, 2026
Driving License in Japan for Expats
Yes, for 1 year (with valid IDP based on Geneva Convention). After that, you must convert to a Japan license. Good news: the official test is available in English.
Key Facts: Japan Driving License for Expats
- Test Authority
- NPA — National Police Agency (Prefectural Public Safety Commissions)
- Official Test Language
- Japanese, English (some prefectures)
- Grace Period
- 1 year (with valid IDP based on Geneva Convention)
- Processing Time
- 1 day (exchange) or 1-3 months (full test with school)
- Theory Test Required
- Yes (if no exchange agreement)
- Practical Test Required
- Yes (if no exchange agreement)
- Medical Exam
- Not required
- Total Cost
- ¥7,000-10,000 (~$47-67 USD) exchange or ¥300,000+ (~$2,000+ USD) full driving school
Eligibility by Nationality
EU/EEA Citizens
Must convert license. Most EU countries eligible for direct exchange.
US/UK Citizens
USA: Exchange with knowledge + skills confirmation test. UK: Direct exchange without tests.
Other Non-EU Citizens
Must convert license. Requirements depend on home country agreements.
Students
Can use IDP for up to 1 year. Must convert if staying longer.
Required Documents
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓Residence card (在留カード)
- ✓Original foreign license
- ✓JAF translation of foreign license (mandatory)
- ✓Passport photos (3x2.4cm)
- ✓Proof of 3+ months holding license in issuing country before arriving in Japan
Costs Breakdown
- Conversion/Exam Fee
- ¥3,800-5,000 (~$25-35 USD)
- Medical Exam
- Included in application process
- Translation
- ¥3,300 (~$22 USD) JAF translation fee
- Total Estimated
- ¥7,000-10,000 (~$47-67 USD) exchange or ¥300,000+ (~$2,000+ USD) full driving school
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 23
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 23
Exempt from knowledge/skills test: AustriaBelgiumCzech RepublicDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyGreeceIcelandIrelandItalyLuxembourgMonacoNetherlandsNew ZealandNorwayPortugalSouth KoreaSpainSwedenSwitzerlandTaiwanUK
No Agreement (Full Test Required): Countries not listed require full test at driving school (教習所)
Tips for Expats in Japan
- JAF (Japan Automobile Federation) translation is mandatory - no other translations accepted
- Must prove you held your license 3+ months in the issuing country BEFORE arriving in Japan
- Driving schools (教習所) are very structured and expensive but thorough
- Some prefectures offer the test in English - check your local license center
- Exchange process includes a short driving skills test on a closed course
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Japanese driving test in English?
Some prefectures offer the knowledge confirmation test in English, but this varies. Check with your local license center. Practice with AutoviaTest in English to prepare regardless.
What is the JAF translation and where do I get it?
JAF (Japan Automobile Federation) provides the only accepted translation of foreign licenses. You can apply at JAF offices or by mail. It costs ¥3,300 and takes about 2 weeks.
What is the 3-month rule?
You must prove you held your foreign license for at least 3 months in the issuing country before entering Japan. If you got your license just before moving to Japan, you won't qualify for exchange.
Can I exchange my US license for a Japanese one?
Yes, the USA is on Japan's exchange list. You'll need to pass a knowledge confirmation and skills confirmation test, but these are generally straightforward for experienced drivers.
How expensive is a Japanese driving school?
Japanese driving schools (教習所) typically cost ¥250,000-350,000 ($1,700-2,400 USD). Residential courses where you stay at the school can be faster and sometimes cheaper.