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Japanese Driver's License Conversion Services

Michelle Cunniff • Jan 01, 2022

For long-term visitors who plan on driving more than 1 year after their arrival date, receiving a Japanese Driver's License is a must. Yet, as common as it is, this can be a complex and time-consuming process to navigate without the right knowledge and help.

In this article, we want to address some basic information about the license conversion process, and how Japan Mobility can help you!

What is Driver's License Conversion?

Driver's License Conversion is the process of using a valid driver's license from another country to apply for a Japanese license. Those eligible will have significantly fewer requirements than first-time drivers, so this course is the most common for expats.

In order to be eligible, an applicant must have a valid license from another country, and be able to provide evidence that they stayed in the issuing country for a total of at least 90 days after receiving a license there.

While scheduling will vary by location, in most cases, a minimum of 2 visits to the driving center will be required for those taking exams.

The conversion process generally includes the following stages:

Inspection of required documents and interview regarding driving history.
※ interview not required in all prefectures.
Written exam**: Usually around 10 questions. May be available in multiple languages.
Practical exam**: Usually around 5 - 10 minutes driving on a closed course at the driving center.

**As of September 29, 2021, applicants holding a license from the following location are exempt from taking the practical exam: The United States of America (Indiana State only)

**As of September 29, 2021, applicants holding licenses from the following 29 countries are exempt from taking both the written and practical exams: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, The United Kingdom, The United States of America (States of Hawaii, Maryland, Ohio, Virginia and Washington only), and Taiwan

Common Causes of Delays During the Application Process

Although the process looks simple on paper, License Conversion has a reputation for being difficult and time consuming. But what makes it that way?

Here are some common issues that tend to cause delays during the conversion process:

1) Language Barrier

Other than the written exams (which may be offered in a variety of languages), the application process is generally conducted in Japanese only. Because of this, applicants are often required to either be able to speak and read Japanese themselves, or to arrange an interpreter to accompany them. It is also not uncommon for driving centers to turn away applicants if they feel that they are unable to communicate sufficiently.

2) Additional Document Requirements

In addition to the required documents listed on the driving center websites, some applicants may be requested to provide updated documents, or prepare additional unlisted documentation in the case that eligibility is difficult to prove. If this happens, multiple visits to the driving center may be required just to pass the document review stage.

3) Practical Exam Difficulties

Scoring for this exam tends to be strict, and it can be difficult to pass without guidance, even for highly experienced drivers. While a basic map of the driving course will often be provided in advance, applicants are scored on their by-the-book application of Japanese Road Rules, which are not indicated on the maps themselves. This can include a wide range of topics from basic understanding of road signs, to smaller details such as signal timing, mirror checking order, location of the vehicle within the lane, etc. Additionally, in the case of not passing, applicants are often not provided with a detailed explanation of their scores, so it can be difficult to know what needs to be corrected for the next exam.

How Can Japan Mobility Help?

Our specially-trained and knowledgeable staff are here to help steer you through the conversion process as quickly and smoothly as possible. As part of our License Conversion Support services, we can provide:

Comprehensive Instruction in English or Japanese, customized to your needs
Preview of required documents.
In the case of any concern, advice about common unlisted documents that have been requested from past applicants with circumstances similar to yours can be provided.
Study Kit including a book of road rules, practice quizzes for the written exam, and sample videos including tips for the practical exam. (Applicable countries only)
Accompanied Guidance and Translation Support for your Driving Center visit(s)
Comprehensive in-person explanation of the driving course maps (requirements, tips, common errors, etc.)
Guided walking tour of the testing course (if allowed by the Driving Center)
Assistance with making or changing reservations at the driving center
And more!

If you are thinking about starting the Driver's License Conversion process soon, contact us today at info@japan-mobility.com for more information about our support services!

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