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For Visitors to Japan
You must carry one of the following, along with your original driver’s license:
📄 International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Must be issued under the Geneva Convention of 1949.
- Check if your country is a member of the convention.
📝 Certified Japanese Translation
- Required if your country is not part of the Geneva Convention, but has a license recognition agreement with Japan.
- You can apply for a translation here.
⚠️ Japan does not recognize IDPs under other conventions (e.g. Vienna 1968). Please confirm your country’s status before arriving.
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For Residents of Japan
A valid Japanese driver’s license is required to drive.
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Driving Reminders
- Japan drives on the left side of the road - take time to adjust.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
- Obey speed limits and all local traffic laws.
- Drive carefully and respectfully at all times.