You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by your home country, not Japan

Japan does not issue International Driving Permits. Instead, you obtain an IDP from your own country's motor vehicle authority before you travel. The IDP is a translation of your valid domestic driver's license into multiple languages, including Japanese. It is valid only when carried together with your original license — the IDP alone has no legal standing.

The IDP is recognized in Japan under the 1926 Geneva Convention on Motor Traffic, which Japan has signed. Japanese police and rental car companies accept it as proof you are a licensed driver in your home country. Without it, you may be unable to rent a vehicle or drive legally, even if your domestic license is valid.

The process, timeline, and cost depend entirely on which country issued your license. There is no single "international" process — you work with your own country's licensing body.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit is issued by your home country's motor vehicle authority, not by Japan or any international body.
  • The IDP must be carried with your original domestic driver's license at all times; neither document is valid without the other in Japan.
  • You must obtain your IDP before you travel to Japan, as you cannot get one once you arrive.
  • Processing time and cost vary by country; contact your local motor vehicle department or licensing authority to learn the specific requirements and timeline for your location.
  • Japan also recognizes certain bilateral agreements with specific countries that allow some drivers to use their domestic license alone, though an IDP is the safest option.

How to get an IDP from your home country

The steps differ by country, but the general process is the same everywhere. You contact your country's motor vehicle authority — in the United States, that is your state's Department of Motor Vehicles; in Canada, your provincial licensing office; in the United Kingdom, the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency); in Australia, your state's Roads and Maritime Services or equivalent. Search online for "[your country] international driving permit" to find the correct office.

You will need to provide your valid domestic driver's license, proof of identity, a passport-sized photograph (usually), and a completed process form. Some countries require you to explore in person; others allow mail or online submission. Most charge a small fee, typically between $15 and $50 USD equivalent, though this varies widely.

Processing time ranges from same-day (if you explore in person at some offices) to several weeks by mail. If you are traveling soon, contact your licensing authority when ready to confirm their current processing time and whether you can expedite your process.

What information the IDP contains

An International Driving Permit is a booklet, typically about the size of a passport. It contains your name, date of birth, license number, and photograph. The key feature is that it translates your license category and driving restrictions into ten languages, including Japanese.

The IDP does not change your driving rights or restrictions. If your domestic license restricts you to automatic transmission only, or prohibits driving at night, those restrictions carry over to the IDP. Japanese police will see these restrictions and enforce them.

The IDP is valid for one or three years, depending on your country of issue. Check the expiration date on your IDP before you travel — an expired IDP is not recognized in Japan.

Bilateral license agreements and when you might not need an IDP

Japan has bilateral agreements with several countries that allow drivers to use their domestic license alone, without an IDP, for a limited time. These countries include Germany, France, Switzerland, Belgium, Monaco, and a small number of others. If you hold a license from one of these countries, you may be able to drive in Japan on your domestic license alone for up to one year.

However, this option carries real risk. The list of countries changes, and not all Japanese police officers or rental car companies are aware of every bilateral agreement. A rental company may refuse to rent to you, or police may question whether your country is covered. Carrying an IDP eliminates this uncertainty and is strongly recommended even if you believe your country has a bilateral agreement.

To confirm whether your country has a current bilateral agreement with Japan, contact your country's motor vehicle authority or check the website of Japan's National Police Agency. Do not rely on a rental car website or travel guide, as these sources are often outdated.

Renting a car in Japan with your IDP

Most car rental companies in Japan require both your IDP and your original domestic driver's license. Some also require an International Credit Card in your name. A few companies accept only Japanese driver's licenses, which means you would need to obtain a temporary Japanese license before renting — a separate and more complex process.

When you book a rental car, state clearly that you will be presenting an IDP and your domestic license. Confirm the rental company's requirements in writing before you arrive. If the company will not accept an IDP, choose a different rental company rather than showing up and discovering the problem on arrival.

Bring both documents with you every time you drive. Japanese police can stop you at any time and will ask to see both your IDP and your domestic license. Driving with only the IDP, or only your domestic license, is not legal in Japan.

Driving in Japan with a foreign license: rules and restrictions

Japan drives on the left side of the road. Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour. Traffic laws are strictly enforced, and penalties for violations — including speeding, running red lights, and parking violations — are severe and can include fines, license suspension, and even jail time for serious offenses.

You must carry your IDP and domestic license at all times while driving. You must also carry your passport, proof of vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. Japanese police conduct frequent traffic stops and will check all of these documents.

Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious crime in Japan. The legal limit is extremely low — effectively zero for drivers who have consumed any alcohol. Penalties include large fines, license suspension, and criminal prosecution. Do not drive after drinking any amount of alcohol.

If you are involved in an accident, call the police when ready. Do not leave the scene or attempt to settle the matter privately. Provide your IDP, domestic license, and insurance information to the police and to the other driver. Contact your insurance company and your country's embassy or consulate as soon as possible.

How long you can drive in Japan on a foreign license

You can drive in Japan on an IDP and your domestic license for as long as both documents remain valid and you remain a temporary visitor. Japan does not set a specific time limit for foreign drivers, but your stay is typically limited by your visa or entry status.

If you are on a tourist visa, you can usually stay for up to 90 days (the exact limit depends on your nationality). You can drive during this entire period if your IDP and license are valid. If you plan to stay longer or to work in Japan, you will need to obtain a Japanese driver's license, which requires a separate process and a written test in your language (if your language is available).

If your IDP or domestic license expires while you are in Japan, you cannot legally drive. You must either renew your license through your home country (which may require returning home or using a mail service) or obtain a Japanese license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit in Japan if I forgot to get one before I traveled?

No. Japan does not issue International Driving Permits. You must obtain one from your home country before you travel. If you arrive without an IDP, you cannot legally rent a car or drive in Japan, even if you have a valid domestic license. Contact your country's motor vehicle authority to see if they can mail an IDP to you in Japan, though this is rarely possible within a short timeframe.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as a Japanese driver's license?

No. An IDP is a temporary translation of your foreign license and is valid only while you are a visitor in Japan. A Japanese driver's license is a permanent license issued by Japan and allows you to drive indefinitely. If you plan to live in Japan or stay longer than your visa allows, you must obtain a Japanese license through the local licensing office, which requires passing a written test and a driving test.

What happens if I drive in Japan without an IDP?

Driving without an IDP when one is required is illegal. You can be stopped by police, fined, and your vehicle can be impounded. A rental car company may also refuse to rent to you or may charge you additional fees if you cause an accident without proper documentation. Your travel insurance may not cover accidents if you were driving illegally.

Do I need an IDP if I am only visiting Japan for a few days and not renting a car?

No. An IDP is needed only if you plan to drive. If you will use public transportation, taxis, or ride-sharing services, you do not need an IDP. However, it is a good idea to carry your passport and a copy of your domestic license at all times for identification purposes.

Can I drive a motorcycle in Japan on an IDP?

Only if your domestic license and IDP include a motorcycle endorsement. If your domestic license restricts you to cars only, your IDP will show the same restriction, and you cannot legally ride a motorcycle in Japan. Motorcycle rental companies will check your IDP and will refuse to rent to you if the endorsement is missing.