Driving in Japan: What You Need to Know

Exploring Japan by car can be a thrilling and fulfilling experience, but it’s crucial for those holding foreign licenses to understand the necessary requirements and regulations. Were you aware that if your driving license originates from a country that signed the Geneva Convention but issues international permits following the Vienna Convention model, you’re unable to utilize an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Japan?

In this blog post, we delve into all the prerequisites of driving in Japan with a foreign driver’s license to guarantee you a seamless driving adventure during your visit to Japan!

Do you need a translation?

To drive in Japan, you fall into one of two categories:

Scenario #1

If you are a citizen of a country that has signed the 1949 Geneva Convention with Japan, you can drive in Japan using an international driver’s permit for up to 1 year. After that period, you’ll need to acquire a Japanese driver’s license. This applies to most countries, including Canada and the United States of America.

In this scenario, to drive in Japanese territory, you must bring:
– International Driver’s Permit
– Passport
– Driver’s license from your country of origin.

Scenario #2

IIf your license is issued by one of the following countries: France, Belgium, Germany, Monaco, Switzerland or Taiwan, Japan does not recognize international driver’s permits from these regions. Therefore, citizens of these countries must obtain a Japanese translation of their license from the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF). Some countries, like France, are signatories to the Geneva Convention but issue international permits based on the Vienna Convention model, making them invalid in Japan.

In this scenario, to drive in Japan, you must bring:
– Driver’s license in the original language
– Passport
– Translation of your driver’s license.

International Driving Permit (IDP)

You can obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before traveling to Japan. The IDP serves as a translation of your native driver’s license.

Here are a few places where you can apply online to receive your IDP:
(Note: if the link isn’t working, please leave us a comment and refer to the homepage of the website to relocate the appropriate page)

1. United States: American Automobile Association (AAA) – aaa.com
2. Canada: Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) – caa.ca
3. France: Service-Public.fr – service-public.fr
4. Spain: Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) – dgt.es
5. Italy: Automobile Club d’Italia (ACI) – aci.it
6. Germany: Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club (ADAC) – adac.de
7. United Kingdom: Automobile Association (AA) – theaa.com
8. Australia: National Roads and Motorists’ Association (NRMA) – mynrma.com.au
9. Mexico: Asociación Mexicana de Agentes de Carga (AMACARGA) – amacarga.com.mx

Validity and Requirements

Your IDP is valid for the duration of your stay in Japan (but up to a year from its issue date). It’s essential to carry both your IDP and your original driver’s license from your home country while driving in Japan.

Japan Automobile Federation (JAF)

Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) provides Japanese translations of driver’s licenses issued in Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco and Taiwan. The translation serves as a legal document allowing you to drive in Japan. However, certain conditions apply, and it’s crucial to ensure your license is accompanied by the appropriate translation.

The JAF does not accept requests for translation of foreign driving licenses via mail. You must reside within the territory to apply by post or visit the Japanese Translation of Foreign License site. If you are visiting Japan, you can visit the JAF counter in person. It can take up to two weeks to be processed and need to be picked up at convenience stores.

Alternatively some companies offer translation services that can send you the translation at home before your departure, or at your address once in Japan. Here are a few of them:

1. Japan Experience
2. Destination Japon

Insurance and Coverage

Before hitting the road in Japan, verify that your car insurance policy covers driving abroad. Some insurance providers may require additional documentation or coverage for international driving. Having the right insurance in place will give you peace of mind during your travels. We prefer using these credit cards for booking our rentals because they typically offer robust car insurance policies, sparing you the additional expense of ensuring coverage while on the road.

Renewal and Extension

If you plan to stay in Japan for an extended period beyond the validity of your IDP, you will need to explore options for renewing or extending your driving permit. Depending on your circumstances, you may need to consider obtaining a Japanese driver’s license through the appropriate procedures. We won’t cover in details the various situation but keep in mind that you can either swap your home issue driving licenses for a Japanese driving licenses (without having a take a driving test) or

Tips for Driving in Japan

Familiarize yourself with Japanese traffic laws and regulations to ensure a safe and smooth driving experience. Here are a few tips while driving in Japan:

• Familiarize yourself with Japanese road signs, rules, and driving customs.
• Use navigation apps with English support to navigate unfamiliar roads.
• Be mindful of differences in driving etiquette and courtesy practices.
• Pay attention to parking regulations and fees, especially in urban areas.

Parking Regulations

Understanding parking in Japan may initially seem complex, but it’s highly convenient once you get the hang of it.

• Designated Areas: Parking in Japan is strictly regulated, so it’s crucial to park only in designated zones. Look out for parking lots, garages, or marked spaces along streets. Avoid parking in restricted zones like no-parking areas, sidewalks, or areas marked with yellow lines.
• Paid Parking: Many urban areas in Japan feature paid parking lots. Keep an eye out for signs indicating parking fees and follow the payment instructions provided. Some lots may have automated ticket machines or attendants for fee collection. Remember to monitor your parking time to prevent penalties or towing.
• Time Restrictions: Take note of time restrictions for parking. Certain areas may impose time-limited parking, allowing parking for specified durations. Exceeding these limits could lead to fines or your vehicle being towed.
• Overnight Parking: For overnight parking, consider utilizing 24-hour parking lots or facilities specifically designated for long-term parking. Parking your vehicle on the streets overnight might not be permitted in certain areas.

Our bottom line

Driving in Japan with a foreign driver’s license is entirely feasible with the right documentation and preparation. Whether you secure an International Driving Permit (IDP) or obtain a translation of your home country’s driver’s license (using JAF) and acquaint yourself with Japanese driving laws, you can enjoy the freedom of traversing Japan’s picturesque roads and dynamic cities by car. Our recent journey driving through Okinawa was truly enjoyable.

Have you driven in Japan? We’d love to hear about your experience! Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below!