Driving License in Japan for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in Japan with a foreign license?
Yes, for 1 year (with valid IDP based on Geneva Convention). After that, you must convert to a Japan license. The official test is only in Japanese, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
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) |
| 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 |
| Processing Time | 1 day (exchange) or 1-3 months (full test with school) |
Official test only in Japanese?
Practice in English first with AutoviaTest. Learn all the rules and questions before taking the official test.
🇯🇵 Practice Japan Test in EnglishEligibility by Nationality
🇪🇺 EU/EEA Citizens
Must convert license. Most EU countries eligible for direct exchange.
🇺🇸🇬🇧 US/UK Citizens
USA and UK both eligible for 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.
License Exchange Agreements
✅ Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
USA, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Most EU countries (Germany, France, Italy, etc.), South Korea, Taiwan, Switzerland, Iceland
❌ No Agreement (Full Test Required)
Countries not listed require full test at driving school (教習所)
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 |
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
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Japanese driving test in English?
What is the JAF translation and where do I get it?
What is the 3-month rule?
Can I exchange my US license for a Japanese one?
How expensive is a Japanese driving school?
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your Japan driving test in English.