How to Convert a Foreign Driver's License to a Japanese One (Gaimen Kirikae, 2025 Reform)

Switching a driver's license obtained overseas to a Japanese one — with most of the test waived — is called "gaimen kirikae" (foreign license conversion). A major reform, the first in about 92 years, took effect on October 1, 2025, significantly tightening the address requirement and the knowledge and skills checks. This guide reflects the rules after the reform.

① Who can and cannot apply

After the reform, the main eligible group is people registered as residents in Japan (mid- to long-term residents). Note the following:

• A resident record (juminhyo with specified items) is required. Complete your resident registration at city hall within 14 days of arrival.
• Tourists and short-term visitors generally cannot convert. To drive in Japan, consider an International Driving Permit (Geneva Convention countries) or your home license with an approved Japanese translation.
• You must have stayed in the issuing country for a total of 3+ months after obtaining the foreign license (verified via passport entry/exit records).

② Required documents (after the reform)

• Foreign driver's license (original), still valid
• Japanese translation (prepared by JAF, your embassy/consulate in Japan, or a designated body)
• Copy of your resident record (with specified items such as nationality and residence status)
• Residence card / passport (used to verify your stay after obtaining the license)
• Application photo (e.g., 3.0cm × 2.4cm; follow the test center's spec)

Details vary by prefecture. Always check the guidance of your local driver's license test center before applying.

③ What the checks involve

Knowledge check (written)

50 questions are drawn from traffic rules in general, and you need 90% or more correct (roughly 45+) to pass. Some centers offer the test in multiple languages, but available languages differ by location.

Skills check (practical)

On the center's course, your driving is assessed for Japanese road conditions. Items such as crossing railroad crossings and pedestrian crossings were added, and signal timing and lane changes are scrutinized more strictly. The skills check is by appointment and cannot be taken on the same day you apply.

④ Procedure, counter, and fees

1. Complete resident registration and prepare a Japanese translation of your foreign license (e.g., via JAF).
2. At the test center, undergo document checks and an aptitude test (eyesight, etc.).
3. If not exempt, take the knowledge check.
4. After passing, book the skills check and take it on a later day.
5. Once you pass everything, a Japanese license is issued.

The counter is the driver's license test center in each prefecture (in Tokyo: Fuchu, Samezu, Koto). Fees are roughly ¥2,500–3,900 application + ¥2,350 issuance (varies by vehicle type and prefecture). Reception is often weekdays only and can be crowded, so arrive early.

Once you have your license, see the trains, buses & IC card guide for getting around Japan every day.

FAQ

I'm here as a tourist. Can I convert my license?Generally no. The October 2025 reform made a resident record mandatory, so short-term visitors/tourists are not eligible. To drive in Japan, consider an International Driving Permit (Geneva Convention countries) or your home license with an approved translation.

What languages is the knowledge check available in?It varies by test center. Some offer multiple languages, but check the available languages with each center in advance. The pass mark is 50 questions with 90%+ correct.

Can I take the skills check on the same day?No. The skills check is by appointment and cannot be taken on your application day. After document and knowledge checks, you take it on a later date.

Is the test waived for any country?No. Only certain countries/regions recognized as equivalent to Japan get the knowledge and skills checks waived. The list can change, so confirm the latest with your prefectural police.