How to Convert a Foreign Driver's License in Japan (Gaimen Kirikae)

If you have a valid driver’s license issued in another country and plan to drive in Japan for an extended period, you may be eligible to convert your foreign license into a Japanese driver’s license through a process called Gaimen Kirikae (Foreign License Conversion).

In this guide, we explain the application process, tests, and important points you should know before applying.

Who Can Apply?

This process is suitable for individuals who:

• Hold a valid foreign driver’s license.

• Meet the residency requirements in Japan.

• Can provide the necessary documents required by the licensing authority.

  
  

Applications must be submitted at the driver’s license center in the prefecture where you are registered as a resident.

Overview of the Gaimen Kirikae Process

The license conversion process generally consists of the following steps:

1. Book an appointment

2. Document screening

3. Aptitude test and interview

4. Written test

5. Practical driving test

6. Issuance of a Japanese driver’s license

   
   

Let's look at each step in more detail.

Step 1: Book an Appointment

The reservation process differs depending on the prefecture.

Some license centers accept online reservations, while others require reservations by phone.

Before preparing your application, check the official website of the driver's license center where you plan to apply.

Step 2: Document Screening

You must prepare and submit all required documents to the driver's license center.

The required documents vary depending on the country that issued your foreign driver's license.

Typical documents may include:

• Foreign driver's license

• Passport

• Residence card

• Proof of residence

• Official translation of your driver's license

  
  

Because requirements can change, always confirm the latest information directly with your local license center.

Step 3: Aptitude Test and Interview

Applicants must pass a basic aptitude examination that evaluates:

• Visual acuity

• Color vision

• Hearing ability

• Physical fitness for driving

  
  

If you normally wear glasses or contact lenses while driving, make sure to bring them with you.

You will also be interviewed by an examiner. Questions may include:

• When did you obtain your driver's license?

• How long did you drive in the issuing country?

• How long have you lived in Japan?

  
  

Since interviews are usually conducted in Japanese, applicants who do not speak Japanese should check in advance whether an interpreter is permitted.

Step 4: Written Test

Most applicants are required to pass a written test on Japanese traffic rules.

The test consists of 50 True-or-False questions.

To pass, you must score at least 45 correct answers out of 50.

Although the questions are basic, many applicants underestimate the differences between traffic rules in Japan and those in their home countries.

We recommend studying Japanese road rules carefully and practicing with sample questions before taking the exam.

Step 5: Practical Driving Test

The practical driving test is usually scheduled on a separate day after passing the written test.

You must pass the driving test within six months of passing the written examination. If more than six months pass, you must restart the entire process from the beginning.

For many applicants, this is the most challenging stage of the conversion process.

A common misunderstanding is:

"I have many years of driving experience, so the test should be easy."

Unfortunately, this is not always true.

The Japanese driving test evaluates much more than basic vehicle control. Examiners expect candidates to demonstrate driving techniques that strictly follow Japanese testing standards and traffic regulations.

Even experienced drivers often fail because they are unfamiliar with the specific driving methods expected during the examination.

For this reason, we strongly recommend taking lessons with a qualified driving instructor before attempting the test.

Professional training can help you:

• Understand Japanese testing standards

• Avoid common mistakes

• Improve your chances of passing

• Drive safely on Japanese roads after obtaining your license

Step 6: Issuance of Your Japanese Driver’s License

Once you successfully pass the practical driving test, your Japanese driver's license is generally issued on the same day.

Congratulations! You are now legally permitted to drive in Japan with a Japanese driver's license.

Countries Exempt from Written and Practical Tests

Drivers holding valid licenses issued by the following countries and regions are generally exempt from both the written test and practical driving test:

• Australia

• Austria

• Belgium

• Canada

• Czech Republic

• Denmark

• Finland

• France

• Germany

• Greece

• Iceland

• Ireland

• Italy

• Luxembourg

• Monaco

• Netherlands

• New Zealand

• Norway

• Poland

• Portugal

• Slovenia

• South Korea

• Spain

• Sweden

• Switzerland

• Taiwan

• United Kingdom

• Certain U.S. states, including Hawaii, Maryland, Ohio, Oregon, Virginia, Washington, and Colorado

Exempt from the Practical Driving Test Only

* United States of America (Indiana)

Requirements may change, so please verify the latest information with your local driver's license center.

Need Help Preparing for the Driving Test?

At JYC Driving School, we provide private driving lessons in English for foreign residents who are preparing for the Japanese driving test or want to drive safely and confidently in Japan.

With more than 20 years of professional experience as a certified driving instructor and examiner, we can help you understand exactly what examiners expect and improve your chances of success.

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about driving in Japan or the foreign license conversion process.