How to Get a Japanese Driver’s License: Guide for Foreigners

Japan is known for its efficient train system, which makes it easy to get around without needing a car. However, if you live in the countryside, driving is often the most practical way to travel, so having a Japanese driver’s license becomes essential.

For foreigners, there are two main ways to get a license in Japan. The process depends on whether you already have a license from another country.

1. Switch Your Foreign License or Gaimen Kirikae (外免切替)

If you have a valid driver’s license from your home country, you might be able to switch it to a Japanese one through a process called gaimen kirikae.

To qualify, you must:

• Hold a valid foreign driver’s license.

• Prove that you lived in the country where your license was issued for at least three months after it was issued.

Steps:

• Get your license translated into Japanese. You can do this through the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF).

• Prepare your documents: passport, residence card, My Number card (if available), a photo, and your driver’s license.

• Go to your local licensing center and make a reservation to take a short written test and a practical driving test.

Photo Credit: Expats Guide

Some countries and regions such as the U.K., Canada, South Korea, and certain U.S. states are exempt from the tests. This means the process is faster and easier for eligible applicants.

2. Attend a Driving School in Japan

If you don’t have a valid foreign driver’s license or you’re from a country that is not eligible for license conversion or gaimen kirkae (外免切替), you need to go to a designated driving school in Japan.

Photo Credit: The Japan Times

Step 1: Enroll in a Driving School

Choose a certified driving school or shitei jidōsha kyōshūjo (指定自動車教習所). The course includes classroom lectures and driving practice. These schools often offer packages that include accommodation and meals.

Step 2: Get a Learner’s Permit or Karimenkyo (仮免許)

After you complete the first stage of training and pass a written and driving test at the school, you will receive a learner’s permit (karimenkyo).

• This lets you drive on public roads with an instructor in the car.
  
• The learner’s permit is usually valid for 6 months.
  

Step 3: Final Test and Full License

After more practice and lessons, you can take the final test at the school or at a local Driver’s License Center. If you pass, you will receive your full Japanese driver’s license or unten menkyoshō (運転免許証).

Requirements to enroll:

• Be at least 18 years old.

• Have a valid residence card.

• Pass a vision test.

Enrolling in a driving school can cost ¥200,000 or more. Some schools offer short-term driving camps, where you stay on-site and finish in about two to three weeks.

Things to Keep in Mind

The process can vary by prefecture, so it’s important to check with your local licensing center for the most accurate information. If you’re unsure which method is best for you, you can ask for advice directly at the center or visit their official website.

Be prepared to fill out paperwork and wait during the process, it can take time. But once you get your Japanese driver’s license, you’ll gain more freedom to travel, commute and explore all that Japan has to offer.

Travel Japan and Stay Connected to Home

Once you have your driver’s license, you can explore Japan more freely, from scenic coastal roads to hidden mountain villages. No matter where your journey takes you, staying connected to your loved ones back home is just as easy. With Smiles Mobile Remittance, Japan’s “absolute number one” mobile remittance app, you can send money anytime, anywhere straight from your smartphone.

Whether you’re on a road trip, visiting a local hot spring, or resting at a service area, Smiles offers fast, safe and convenient service with great exchange rates and 24/7 multilingual support.

Travel more, worry less and continue to #ShareSmiles wherever you go in Japan.