Change your foreign licence to a Japanese driving licence

Documents you typically need

A valid foreign licence, an official JAF (or embassy) translation, proof you stayed at least 3 months in the issuing country after getting the licence, your residence card (zairyu card), and a photo. Requirements and reservations differ by prefecture — always check your licence centre’s official page.

The knowledge test

Most applicants take a short true/false knowledge check on Japanese traffic rules; the full conversion written exam uses the 50-question / 90% format. Practise both free in your language with mock exams that mirror the real timing.

After the written test

Many nationalities also take a practical driving check on the licence-centre course. Practise the course layout and rules with our Kadoma course guide and driving game.

What to say when you book

• 外国免許切替の予約を取りたいです。

  Gaikoku menkyo kirikae no yoyaku o toritai desu.

  I would like to book an appointment to convert my foreign license.

Step by step

• Get a certified Japanese translation of your license (JAF or your embassy).
• Book an appointment at your prefecture center’s foreign-license desk.
• Document & residency check (often must prove 3+ months in the issuing country after getting the license).
• Knowledge test (depends on your country) and a practical driving test if required.
• On passing, the Japanese license is issued.

The written test

• Conversion knowledge test (外免切替): 50 questions, 30 minutes, pass mark 90%.
• True/false questions in the official format. Check with your licence centre which languages the test is offered in.

Fees

• 普通 / Regular car: application fee ¥2,500, licence issue fee ¥2,350.
• Typical in Tokyo/Ibaraki; may vary by prefecture.

Licence centres and documents by prefecture

• By prefecture