How to Convert Your Foreign Driving Licence in Japan

Converting a Foreign Driving Licence in Japan: What You Need to Know

Japan recognises foreign licences under the Geneva Convention, but only for temporary visitors. Once you become a resident (residence card obtained), you must convert your foreign licence to a Japanese one to drive legally. The good news: nationals of France, most EU countries, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the UK benefit from a simplified procedure with no practical driving test.

Countries Eligible for Simplified Conversion (No Driving Test)

The list includes France, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United Kingdom, and most EU member states.

US nationals are generally NOT eligible for simplified conversion (with some state exceptions) and must pass a practical driving test.

Required Documents

1. Your original foreign driving licence

2. An official Japanese translation of your licence (JAF translates most EU licences; see below)

3. Your original passport plus photocopy (all pages with stamps)

4. Your residence card (zairyu card) plus photocopy

5. Your resident certificate (juminhyo) from your ward office

6. 2 recent passport photos (30 mm x 24 mm, white background)

7. Proof that you were resident in your home country for at least 3 months after your licence was issued (bank statements, employment contract or multiple passport entry stamps)

JAF translation: The Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) provides official translations for most European licences. Cost: approximately 3,000 ¥. Processing time: 1 to 5 business days. Find your nearest JAF branch at jaf.or.jp.

Where to Go: Licence Examination Centres

Conversion is processed only at official driver's licence examination centres (運転免許試験場). For Tokyo:

• Fuchu Driver's Licence Centre: accessible from Kokubunji by bus (10 minutes)
• Koto Driver's Licence Centre: accessible from Tatsumi station (Rinkai Line)
• Samezu Driver's Licence Centre: accessible from Samezu station (Keikyu Line)

No online appointment system exists. Arrive at opening time (typically 8:30) and expect to spend a full day.

The Simplified Conversion Process (Eligible Countries)

1. Document check at the counter (allow 30 to 60 minutes for review)

2. Vision and colour test (approximately 5 minutes)

3. Written highway code questionnaire (10 questions, available in English and several other languages)

4. Wait and collection of Japanese licence (usually the same day)

Total cost: approximately 2,350 ¥ for the Japanese licence, plus JAF translation fees.

Practical Driving Test (Non-Eligible Countries)

If your country is not eligible for simplified conversion, you must complete:

1. A written road rules test (available in English, Chinese, French and other languages)

2. A practical driving test on a dedicated circuit (not on public roads)

The practical test follows a very precise Japanese protocol: specific mirror checks, hand placement, verbal confirmations at intersections. Many applicants fail on their first attempt due to unfamiliarity with the procedure rather than actual driving ability. Preparation courses in English are available at some centres.

The Critical 3-Month Rule

Japanese authorities must verify that you were actually using your licence in your home country for at least 3 months after it was issued. If your passport shows that you arrived in Japan within 3 months of obtaining your licence, the conversion may be refused.

In this case, you typically need to wait or provide additional evidence: bank statements, utility bills, employment records in your home country dated after the licence issue date.

What About an International Driving Permit?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) under the Geneva Convention is valid in Japan for one year after arrival. However, once you register at a ward office and obtain a juminhyo (resident certificate), you are treated as a resident and must convert your licence. Continuing to drive on an IDP as a registered resident is an infraction.

FAQ

How long is the process from start to finish?

The actual conversion day takes 4 to 8 hours at the centre. But preparation time matters: gathering documents, getting the JAF translation (up to 5 days) and booking a day off work typically means 1 to 2 weeks of preparation.

Is the Japanese licence permanent?

Yes. A Japanese licence obtained by conversion is identical to one obtained by examination. It renews on the same schedule: every 3 to 5 years depending on your driving record.

Can I drive in Japan with just an EU or UK licence?

For the first year after arrival (or as a tourist), yes, with an IDP. As a registered resident, you must convert. Traffic fines for driving on an expired conversion right are the same as for unlicensed driving.

For housing near convenient transport links, our [Tokyo neighbourhoods guide for expats](/blog/tokyo-neighbourhoods-expats-guide) helps you choose by commute line. For all administrative steps after arrival, see our [complete moving checklist](/blog/moving-to-tokyo-checklist-2026).