Driving in Japan and Getting a Japanese Drivers License
Driving in Japan can be an experience in itself.
The rules of the game have changed a bit since I got my drivers license back in 1992.
If you come from a country that drives on the same side as Japan or your country has an agreement with the Japanese government (like Canada) then it isn’t that hard to get a Japanese drivers license.
If you are American or come from a country that drives on the right side of the road, then expect to take a written and practical test. More info can be found at the U.S Embassy site regarding Driver’s LIcense
They do have a test in English, but the whole process can be frustrating. For those of you in country, or thinking about being there for a period of time and would like to get your Japanese drivers license, you may want to check out www.japandriverslicense.com.
They have great information regarding getting your Japanese drivers license and the necessary procedures.
If you will be in country for over a year, you cannot continue to use an international driver’s license in Japan.
If you are going there and are thinking of driving, go to their site and at least familiarize yourself with the street signs.
Another site to visit when thinking of getting a Japanese license is the JAF site at www.jaf.or.jp/e/switch.htm. They provide information in English on how to convert your license into a Japanese license.
Hope this helps. Please feel free to email me or make a comment if you have additional informations or experience you’d like to share regarding getting a Japanese Driver’s lIcenese.
