Driving in Japan

Converting a Foreign Driver's License to a Japanese One

*IMPORTANT* For those who is planning to convert a foreign driver's license, we encourage you to start the process 6 months after your arrival to Japan.

Find more information about the driver's license conversion

Japanese Driver's License Renewal

Japanese driver's license must be renewed every few years. The period of license validity varies depending on the license status.

Obtain an International Driver's license

International driver's license can only be issued for those who has a Japanese Driver's License.

Please go to the Okinawa Prefectural Driver's License Center in Naha if you wish to obtain a international driver's license immediately as it takes about 3 weeks to obtain at other branches.

Find more information about International driver's license

How to get a Japanese Driver's License from scratch