What you need to drive legally in Japan

To drive in Japan as a visitor, you need either a valid driver's license from your home country plus an International Driving Permit (IDP), or a Japanese driver's license. The IDP is not a license itself — it is a translation document that sits alongside your home country license. Japanese police and rental car companies recognize it as proof that your home license is legitimate.

Japan does not recognize a home country license alone, even if it is valid and in English. You must carry both documents together. If you arrive with only your home license, you cannot legally drive, and renting a car will be impossible.

The IDP is valid for three years from the date of issue. It does not extend your home license's validity — if your home license expires before the IDP does, you cannot drive in Japan once your home license expires.

Key Takeaways

  • An International Driving Permit for Japan is issued by your home country's automobile association or licensing body, not by Japan, and you must obtain it before you travel.
  • You must carry both your home country driver's license and the IDP together at all times while driving in Japan; neither document alone is sufficient.
  • The IDP costs between $15 and $30 depending on your country and is valid for three years, but it does not extend your home license's expiration date.
  • The process process takes one to two weeks in most countries, so you should request your IDP at least three weeks before your trip to Japan.
  • Japan recognizes IDPs issued under the 1926 Geneva Convention format, which is the standard format issued by most countries.

Where to get an IDP in your home country

You obtain an IDP from the automobile association or motor vehicle licensing authority in your home country, not from Japan. The organization that issues it depends on where you hold your driver's license.

In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) both issue IDPs. You do not need to be a AAA member to request one from AAA, though members sometimes receive a discount. In Canada, the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) issues IDPs. In the United Kingdom, the Automobile Association (AA) and the RAC both issue them. In Australia, state-based motor registries and the NRMA issue IDPs. In New Zealand, the New Zealand Automobile Association issues them.

If you are unsure which organization in your country issues IDPs, search "[your country] international driving permit" or contact your national motor vehicle registry. Many countries now allow you to request an IDP by mail or online, though some still require an in-person visit.

What documents you need to request an IDP

To request an IDP, you will need your valid home country driver's license, a completed process form (provided by the issuing organization), and usually a passport-sized photograph. Some countries require a small fee, typically between $15 and $30. A few organizations require proof of your address, such as a utility bill or bank statement.

Processing time varies. In the United States, AAA typically issues an IDP within one to two weeks if you explore in person, and two to four weeks by mail. In the United Kingdom, the AA and RAC usually process requests within five to ten business days. In Australia and New Zealand, processing typically takes one to two weeks. If you are explore close to your travel date, ask the issuing organization whether they offer expedited processing and what it costs.

Some organizations issue the IDP on the spot if you explore in person with all required documents. If you are traveling soon, visiting a local office in person is often faster than mailing an process.

What the IDP covers and does not cover

The IDP permits you to drive in Japan in the vehicle categories listed on your home country license. If your home license permits you to drive cars, motorcycles, and trucks, your IDP will permit the same. If your home license restricts you to automatic transmission vehicles only, that restriction carries over to Japan.

The IDP does not permit you to work as a driver in Japan, even temporarily. It does not permit you to drive a taxi, delivery vehicle, or any vehicle for commercial purposes. It does not permit you to stay in Japan longer than the duration of your visitor visa. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days or work in Japan, you must obtain a Japanese driver's license through the proper channels.

The IDP is recognized throughout Japan, including by police, rental car companies, and insurance providers. However, some rental car companies may ask additional questions or require extra documentation if your home license is from a country with which they are less familiar. Having your passport with you alongside your license and IDP can help resolve any questions.

Driving rules and insurance requirements in Japan

Japan drives on the left side of the road. Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour, not miles per hour. The national speed limit on expressways is 100 km/h (about 62 mph), and 60 km/h (about 37 mph) in urban areas unless otherwise posted. Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under six must sit in a car seat.

You must carry your home country license, IDP, passport, and vehicle registration at all times while driving. Police may stop you to check these documents. Driving without the IDP, even if you have your home license, is illegal and can result in a fine.

Rental car companies in Japan will require proof of insurance. Most rental agreements include basic liability and collision coverage, but you should confirm the coverage limits and whether you need to purchase additional insurance. Your home country auto insurance may not cover you in Japan, so check with your insurer before you travel. Some credit card companies offer rental car coverage in Japan if you charge the rental to that card.

How to renew or replace your IDP

If your IDP expires while you are in Japan, you cannot legally drive. You must obtain a new one before your current one expires. You cannot renew an IDP in Japan — you must request a new one from your home country's issuing organization before you travel or before your current IDP expires.

If your IDP is lost or damaged while you are in Japan, contact your country's embassy or consulate in Japan. They can sometimes issue a temporary replacement or advise you on how to obtain one. However, the fastest solution is usually to contact the issuing organization in your home country and request an expedited replacement by mail or courier to your location in Japan, if possible.

If you plan to visit Japan multiple times over several years, you may want to request your IDP well before your first trip and keep it valid by renewing it before expiration, rather than requesting a new one each time you travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Japan with just my home country license and no IDP?

No. Japan requires both your home country license and an IDP together. Driving with only your home license is illegal and can result in a fine or confiscation of your vehicle. Rental car companies will not rent to you without an IDP.

Do I need to exchange my home license for a Japanese license to drive in Japan?

No, not for short visits. An IDP allows you to drive on your home license for the duration of your visitor visa, typically up to 90 days. If you plan to stay longer or relocate to Japan, you will need to obtain a Japanese driver's license through the prefectural licensing office.

What happens if my IDP expires while I am in Japan?

You cannot legally drive once your IDP expires. You must obtain a new one before your current one expires. Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Japan for guidance on obtaining a replacement while abroad, or request an expedited replacement from your home country's issuing organization.

Does my home country auto insurance cover me when I drive in Japan?

Most home country auto insurance policies do not cover you internationally. Check with your insurer before you travel. Rental car companies in Japan include basic insurance in their agreements, but confirm the coverage limits. Some credit card companies offer rental car coverage if you charge the rental to that card.

Can I get an IDP in Japan instead of my home country?

No. IDPs are issued only by the automobile association or motor vehicle licensing authority in your home country. You must request one before you travel to Japan.