Japan has one of the best public transport systems in the world, but there are many places where renting a car completely changes the experience.
A car is particularly useful when visiting rural areas, mountain regions, small coastal towns, national parks, Hokkaido, Okinawa, Shikoku or parts of Kyushu.
Driving in Japan is generally safe and manageable, even for first-time visitors. Roads are usually well maintained, navigation is reliable, and most rental cars are automatic.
The most confusing part is not the driving itself. It is understanding which driving document you need.
Depending on where your licence was issued, you may need either:
- an International Driving Permit;
- your original licence accompanied by an official Japanese translation;
- or a Japanese driving licence if you live in Japan long term.
This guide explains the differences, how to rent a car, how toll roads work and what rules you should know before driving in Japan.
1. Can tourists drive in Japan?
Yes. Foreign visitors can legally drive in Japan, provided they carry the correct documents.
The required documents depend on the country or territory that issued your driving licence.
There are two main systems for tourists:
- Driving with an International Driving Permit based on the 1949 Geneva Convention.
- Driving with your original licence and an official Japanese translation.
A standard foreign driving licence on its own is generally not sufficient.
You should also carry your passport because the police or rental company may need to verify your date of entry into Japan.
2. Driving with an International Driving Permit
Most tourists, including visitors from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and many other countries, normally need an International Driving Permit, commonly called an IDP.
However, Japan only recognises International Driving Permits issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic.
This distinction is important.
An IDP issued under a different convention may not be valid in Japan, even if it is described as an “international licence.”
What you must carry
When driving, you should have:
- your original domestic driving licence;
- your valid 1949 Geneva Convention International Driving Permit;
- your passport.
The International Driving Permit does not replace your original licence. Both documents must be carried together.
When should you obtain it?
You should normally obtain your IDP in the country that issued your driving licence, before travelling to Japan.
Japan does not issue International Driving Permits to foreign visitors after they arrive.
Avoid websites selling unofficial digital “international driving licences.” A downloadable document or plastic card purchased online may have no legal validity in Japan.
How long is it valid in Japan?
The permitted driving period is generally limited to the shorter of:
- one year from the date the IDP was issued;
- one year from your date of entry into Japan;
- the expiry date of the underlying domestic licence.
Special restrictions apply to registered residents who leave Japan temporarily and return within a short period. Leaving and re-entering Japan does not always restart the one-year driving period.
3. Countries that use a Japanese translation instead
Licences issued in the following countries and territory follow a different system:
- France;
- Germany;
- Belgium;
- Switzerland;
- Monaco;
- Taiwan.
Drivers from these places generally use their original valid licence together with an official Japanese translation.
For Taiwan, the translation requirements and authorised issuing bodies differ slightly. Travellers should check the current official procedure applying specifically to Taiwanese licences.
For France, Germany, Belgium, Switzerland and Monaco, the driver must carry:
- the original driving licence;
- an authorised Japanese translation;
- a passport showing the date of entry into Japan.
An International Driving Permit is not normally the correct document for these licence holders.
Where can the translation come from?
The translation must be issued by an organisation authorised under Japanese rules.
The Japan Automobile Federation, or JAF, is the most commonly used issuing organisation.
A personal translation, a translation produced by artificial intelligence or a document prepared by a normal translation agency is not sufficient.
A PDF displayed on a telephone is also not a substitute for the official document that must be carried while driving.
Obtaining a translation before your trip
Travellers who want help preparing the correct JAF translation and arranging delivery or collection in Japan can find more information here:
Japanese driving licence translation service for Japan
The original licence must still be carried with the translation. The translation does not replace the licence itself.
How long can you drive with the translation?
The permitted period is generally up to one year from the date of entry into Japan, or until the foreign licence expires, whichever occurs first.
Different rules may apply to people registered as residents of Japan who leave and return within three months.
Long-term residents should not assume that repeatedly leaving Japan automatically resets their right to drive on a foreign licence.
4. What if you move to Japan?
Tourists and short-term visitors do not normally need to convert their licence into a Japanese licence.
However, foreign licences and International Driving Permits are not intended to provide an unlimited solution for people living in Japan.
If you become a resident and intend to continue driving, you will eventually need to consider converting your foreign licence into a Japanese licence.
This procedure is commonly known as:
Gaimen kirikae
It means converting a valid foreign driving licence into a Japanese one.
The procedure is handled by the driving licence centre of the prefecture where you live.
5. Foreign licence conversion became stricter in October 2025
Japan significantly tightened its foreign-licence conversion procedure from October 1, 2025.
The changes were introduced after concerns that the previous process was too easy and that some applicants were converting licences without demonstrating sufficient knowledge of Japanese traffic rules.
Tourists can no longer easily use the conversion procedure
Applicants are now generally required to prove that they are officially resident in Japan.
A copy of the Japanese residence record, called a juminhyo, is normally required.
This effectively prevents most short-term tourists from using a hotel address or temporary accommodation to convert a foreign licence.
There are limited exceptions for specific categories of people who are not subject to the normal resident-registration system, such as certain diplomats.
For ordinary travellers, however, foreign-licence conversion should not be viewed as an alternative to obtaining the correct visitor driving documents.
The theory check increased from 10 to 50 questions
Before October 2025, the knowledge check generally consisted of only 10 questions.
Applicants needed to answer at least seven correctly.
Under the stricter system:
- the test contains 50 questions;
- applicants must achieve at least 90%;
- the questions more thoroughly assess knowledge of Japanese traffic rules.
The previous test was sometimes described as extremely basic. The current version requires genuine preparation.
The practical assessment became stricter
The driving assessment was also reinforced.
The updated evaluation places greater emphasis on real road-safety behaviour, including:
- approaching and passing pedestrian crossings correctly;
- observing traffic signs and road markings;
- checking mirrors and blind spots;
- positioning the vehicle correctly;
- stopping fully where required;
- demonstrating safe and deliberate driving behaviour.
Japan is particularly strict about visible safety checks. An applicant may need to make head movements clearly enough for the examiner to see that mirrors and blind spots are being checked.
The three-month rule still applies
To convert a foreign licence, applicants must normally prove that they lived in the issuing country for a total of at least three months after the licence was issued.
Passports alone do not always provide enough evidence, especially when immigration stamps are missing.
Depending on the case, applicants may need documents such as:
- old passports;
- entry and exit records;
- school records;
- employment certificates;
- tax documents;
- residence records;
- official driving history documents.
Requirements can vary between prefectural driving licence centres.
Some licence holders may receive exemptions
Depending on the country or region that issued the licence, an applicant may be exempt from the knowledge check, the practical assessment or both.
The list of exemptions is based on Japanese recognition arrangements and may change.
Applicants should confirm the exact rules with their prefectural driving licence centre rather than relying on a general online list.
6. Renting a car in Japan
Once your driving documents are ready, renting a car in Japan is generally straightforward.
Major rental companies include:
- Toyota Rent a Car;
- Nippon Rent-A-Car;
- Nissan Rent a Car;
- Times Car Rental;
- ORIX Rent a Car;
- Budget;
- smaller regional companies.
There is no single company that is always the cheapest.
Prices vary according to:
- location;
- dates;
- season;
- vehicle category;
- insurance;
- availability;
- one-way return charges.
Using a reputable comparison website is usually the easiest way to compare several companies.
Japan does not have a major problem with dishonest rental companies or hidden scams. Established rental companies generally offer transparent conditions and well-maintained vehicles.
However, always check what is included in the displayed price.
Documents requested at the rental counter
The company will normally ask for:
- your passport;
- your original domestic licence;
- your International Driving Permit or official Japanese translation;
- a payment card;
- your reservation details.
The name on the reservation should match the driver’s documents.
Any additional driver must also present valid driving documents.
Book early during busy periods
Rental cars can sell out during:
- Golden Week;
- the New Year holiday;
- the summer holiday season;
- cherry blossom season in popular rural areas;
- autumn foliage season;
- major local festivals.
Availability can also be limited in Hokkaido and Okinawa during peak travel periods.
Automatic transmission is standard
The vast majority of rental cars available to tourists in Japan have automatic transmission.
Manual cars exist, but you would usually need to search for one specifically.
Japanese rental cars are often compact, fuel-efficient and easy to drive. A smaller vehicle can be an advantage on narrow rural roads and in tight parking spaces.
Consider full insurance coverage
Basic insurance is generally included, but an additional collision damage waiver or non-operation charge waiver may be offered.
The non-operation charge is particularly important in Japan. Even when damage is insured, the rental company may charge compensation because the vehicle cannot be rented while it is being repaired or recovered.
For peace of mind, comprehensive coverage is often worth considering.
7. Ask for an ETC card
Japan has an extensive network of toll expressways.
ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection.
It is the Japanese equivalent of an electronic motorway toll-payment system.
Most rental cars are equipped with an ETC reader, but the ETC card itself may need to be requested separately.
Do not assume that the card is automatically included.
When booking or collecting the car, ask:
Is an ETC card included with the rental?
With an ETC card, tolls are recorded automatically as you pass through dedicated toll lanes. The rental company calculates the total and charges you when you return the vehicle.
Why ETC is useful
An ETC card allows you to:
- use dedicated ETC toll lanes;
- avoid handling cash at toll booths;
- enter and leave expressways more easily;
- access certain ETC-only entrances and exits;
- benefit from some toll discounts where applicable.
At toll gates, follow the lanes marked ETC.
Do not enter an ETC-only lane unless the card has been inserted correctly and the onboard reader confirms that it is active.
Expressway passes
Some rental companies also offer regional expressway passes for foreign visitors.
These passes may provide unlimited use of selected expressways for a fixed price over a specific period.
Whether a pass is worthwhile depends on your itinerary. Compare the pass price with estimated individual tolls before purchasing it.
8. Driving on the left
Vehicles drive on the left side of the road in Japan.
The steering wheel is normally on the right side of the car.
Drivers from the United Kingdom, Australia and several other countries will already be familiar with this layout.
For drivers accustomed to driving on the right, the most common mistakes occur:
- immediately after leaving a parking area;
- when turning at an intersection;
- on quiet roads with no other traffic;
- when entering a roundabout;
- after stopping for fuel or food.
Take extra care during the first hour and consciously remind yourself to stay on the left.
9. Road signs and navigation
Driving in Japan is easier than many visitors expect.
Major directional signs generally include both Japanese and Roman letters, especially on expressways and important roads.
However, not every local sign is fully translated into English.
Some important regulatory information may appear only in Japanese on a smaller supplementary plate underneath the main sign.
For example, the supplementary plate may specify:
- the hours when a restriction applies;
- the days of the week;
- vehicle categories;
- exceptions for local residents.
Do not assume that the shape and colour of every sign have exactly the same meaning as in your home country.
The Japanese stop sign
The Japanese stop sign is a red inverted triangle.
It normally contains the Japanese word:
止まれ
This means “stop.”
Some newer signs also include the English word “STOP,” but drivers should recognise the Japanese version.
You must come to a complete stop before the stop line.
Navigation systems
Most rental cars have built-in navigation, and English interfaces are often available.
Google Maps, Apple Maps and other smartphone navigation apps are also widely used.
Rental-car navigation systems may allow you to enter a destination using:
- a telephone number;
- a postal code;
- a map code;
- the name of a hotel or attraction.
Entering the destination’s telephone number is often easier than entering a Japanese address.
10. Alcohol and driving: treat the limit as zero
Japan has extremely strict drink-driving laws.
Although the legislation contains measurable alcohol thresholds, the practical rule for travellers is simple:
Do not drink any alcohol before driving.
Do not assume that one beer, one glass of wine or a drink several hours earlier will be acceptable.
Alcohol remaining in the body the following morning can also create a problem.
Penalties may affect not only the driver. In some circumstances, passengers, people who supplied the alcohol or people who allowed an intoxicated person to drive may also face consequences.
The safest approach is absolute zero alcohol whenever you are responsible for driving.
11. Pedestrians have priority
Drivers must give priority to pedestrians at pedestrian crossings.
If someone is waiting to cross, you are expected to stop.
This rule is taken seriously and is also an important part of the strengthened foreign-licence conversion assessment.
Approach pedestrian crossings carefully, particularly when visibility is limited.
Cyclists, children and elderly pedestrians may enter the road unexpectedly in residential areas.
12. Speed limits are often lower than expected
Japanese speed limits may feel low compared with those in Europe or North America.
Always follow posted signs.
As a general reference, when no sign indicates otherwise, the standard maximum for ordinary passenger cars is generally:
- 60 km/h on ordinary roads;
- 100 km/h on expressways.
In practice, many urban and rural roads have posted limits of:
- 30 km/h;
- 40 km/h;
- 50 km/h.
Speed cameras, police patrols and unmarked police vehicles are used.
Allow more time than your navigation application initially suggests, especially on mountain roads.
13. Parking can be more difficult than driving
Illegal parking is strictly controlled in Japan.
Do not leave a car on the street simply because other vehicles appear to be stopped nearby.
Use:
- hotel parking;
- attraction parking;
- coin-operated parking;
- commercial parking structures.
Urban parking can be expensive, particularly in central Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.
Many coin-parking areas use a locking plate underneath the vehicle. Check the signs, note your parking-space number and pay at the machine before leaving.
Some parking machines accept only cash or specific Japanese payment methods.
14. Be careful on narrow roads
Japan has many narrow roads, particularly in:
- old residential neighbourhoods;
- mountain villages;
- rural areas;
- historic towns;
- coastal regions.
A road may technically allow two-way traffic even when it appears wide enough for only one vehicle.
Drive slowly and watch for wider areas where one vehicle can wait while the other passes.
Roadside drainage channels are also common and may be uncovered. Be careful when moving close to the edge of the road.
This is another reason why a compact rental car is often a better choice than a large SUV.
15. Railways and level crossings
Japan has many railway crossings.
Before crossing, drivers are generally required to stop and check that no train is approaching, even when the warning lights are not flashing.
Do not enter unless there is enough space to clear the tracks completely.
In urban areas, traffic can queue across railway crossings. Wait before entering if the road ahead is blocked.
16. Seat belts and child seats
Seat belts are required for the driver and passengers.
Children under six years old must normally use an appropriate child seat.
Rental companies can provide baby seats and child seats, but they should be reserved in advance.
Make sure the child seat is suitable for the child’s age and size.
17. Fuel stations
Japan has both full-service and self-service petrol stations.
At a full-service station, an employee will normally ask:
- which fuel you need;
- how much fuel you want;
- whether you want to fill the tank;
- how you intend to pay.
Common fuel types include:
- regular petrol;
- high-octane petrol;
- diesel.
Never assume that the colour of the pump matches the system used in your home country.
Check the rental agreement or ask the rental company which fuel the vehicle requires.
Many rental agreements require the car to be returned with a full tank. Keep the fuel receipt because the company may ask to see it.
18. What to do after an accident
If you are involved in an accident, even a minor one:
- Stop the vehicle safely.
- Check whether anyone is injured.
- Call the police.
- Contact the rental company.
- Follow the rental company’s insurance procedure.
In Japan, an official police report is usually necessary for insurance coverage.
Do not privately agree to ignore a minor collision without informing the police and the rental company.
The emergency numbers are:
- 110 for the police;
- 119 for an ambulance or fire service.
19. Is driving in Japan difficult?
For most visitors, driving in Japan is not particularly difficult.
The main adjustments are:
- driving on the left;
- understanding the correct licence documents;
- respecting low speed limits;
- stopping for pedestrians;
- navigating narrow roads;
- using toll roads and ETC;
- finding legal parking.
Outside the largest cities, traffic is often calm and predictable.
Driving in central Tokyo, Osaka or Kyoto is possible, but a car is rarely necessary for sightseeing there. Public transport is usually faster and parking is expensive.
A rental car becomes far more valuable when exploring areas that are difficult to reach by train.
Final checklist
Before collecting your rental car, confirm that you have:
- your original valid driving licence;
- the correct 1949 Geneva Convention IDP or authorised Japanese translation;
- your passport;
- your rental reservation;
- a valid payment card;
- insurance suitable for your trip;
- an ETC card if you plan to use expressways;
- child seats where necessary;
- offline access to your route and accommodation details.
The most important step is confirming which document applies to the country that issued your licence.
Once the paperwork is correct, driving can be one of the best ways to discover the parts of Japan that most visitors never see.
Official references
Rules and procedures can change. Before travelling, confirm the latest information with:
- the Japan Automobile Federation;
- the National Police Agency of Japan;
- the prefectural police responsible for your place of residence;
- your rental-car company;
- the authority that issues International Driving Permits in your home country.
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