LICENSE
About Valid Driver’s Licenses in Japan
There are two types of driver’s licenses that allow driving in Japan.
Please check whether your license is valid for driving in Japan before renting a car.
For license holders from around 180 countries, including the USA, UK, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
For license holders from Taiwan, Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, and Monaco.
For License Holders from Taiwan, Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, and Monaco
You may drive in Japan by presenting:
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Your national driver’s license
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An official Japanese translation of the license
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Your passport
✅ Driving is permitted for the shorter of:
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One year from the date of entry into Japan
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The validity period of your home country’s license
🧭 Taiwanese Drivers:
You can obtain the required Japanese translation from the Taiwan Motor Vehicles Office, located in:
Taipei, Kaohsiung, Taichung, Hsinchu, Chiayi
For instructions, visit:
For License Holders from Geneva Convention Countries
(Including the USA, UK, Hong Kong, Singapore, and over 180 countries)
To drive in Japan, you must present:
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A valid passport
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An International Driving Permit (IDP) based on the 1949 Geneva Convention
✅ Driving is permitted for the shorter of:
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One year from the issue date of your IDP
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One year from your most recent entry into Japan
(Confirmed by your passport entry stamp)
⚠️ IDPs based on the Paris (1926), Washington (1943), or Vienna (1968) Conventions are not valid in Japan.
🔎 For more details, check with your local licensing authority or government website.
Disclaimer
The information provided is based on Japanese law and regulations as of the date of publication.
We recommend verifying the latest requirements via the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) or your local embassy/consulate.
Each driver is responsible for ensuring they meet all legal requirements for operating a vehicle in Japan.