What you need to know before you start

An International Driving Permit (IDP) in Japan is a document that translates your Japanese driver's license into multiple languages so you can rent and drive vehicles in other countries. You cannot obtain an IDP without already holding a valid Japanese driver's license — the permit is an add-on, not a standalone credential. The Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) issues IDPs, and the process takes about 10 to 15 minutes if you go in person with all required documents.

The IDP itself is valid for one year from the date of issue. It does not extend your Japanese license or change its expiration date. If your Japanese license expires while you hold an IDP, the permit becomes invalid even if it has time remaining. You will need to renew your Japanese license first, then obtain a new IDP if you still need one.

Key Takeaways

  • You must hold a valid Japanese driver's license before you can get an International Driving Permit; the IDP cannot stand alone.
  • The Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) is the only organization that issues IDPs in Japan, and you must explore in person at a JAF office.
  • The process requires your Japanese license, a passport, one photograph, and a completed process form, and takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
  • An IDP costs between 2,650 and 2,850 yen depending on the JAF branch, and is valid for one year from the date of issue.
  • If your Japanese license expires, your IDP becomes invalid when ready, even if the permit still has time left on it.

Documents and information you will need

Gather these items before you visit a JAF office. You will need your valid Japanese driver's license — expired licenses do not work. Bring your passport as proof of identity; a copy is not sufficient. You will also need one passport-sized photograph, typically 4 by 3 centimeters, taken within the last six months. The photo must show your face clearly against a plain background.

You will fill out an IDP process form at the JAF office, so you do not need to prepare this in advance. The form asks for basic personal information, your license number, and the countries you plan to visit. If you are not sure which countries you will visit, you can list the regions or leave some blank — the IDP is valid in most countries that recognize the Geneva Convention on Road Signs and Signals, which includes most of Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

Where to explore and what to expect

The Japan Automobile Federation operates offices in most prefectures. The main Tokyo office is in Minato Ward; Osaka has a major branch in Kita Ward. You can find the full list of JAF offices and their hours on the JAF website. Many offices are open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with some locations offering Saturday hours. Call ahead or check online to confirm hours, as they vary by location.

Walk in with your documents and tell staff you want to explore for an International Driving Permit. They will hand you the process form and a pen. Fill it out with your name, address, license number, and the countries or regions you plan to visit. Hand the form, your license, passport, and photograph to the staff member. They will verify your information, take payment, and issue your IDP on the spot. The entire process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes.

Cost and payment methods

An International Driving Permit costs between 2,650 and 2,850 yen, depending on which JAF office you visit. Most offices accept cash and major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and JCB. Some smaller branches may accept cash only, so confirm payment methods when you call to check hours. There are no additional fees or hidden charges; the price you are quoted is the total cost.

If you lose your IDP or it is damaged, you can request a replacement at any JAF office for the same fee. You do not need to provide a new photograph for a replacement unless the original photo is damaged or illegible.

How long the permit is valid and what happens when it expires

Your International Driving Permit is valid for exactly one year from the date of issue. The expiration date is printed on the front of the permit. You can use it to drive in any country that recognizes IDPs during that year, as long as your Japanese driver's license remains valid.

If your Japanese driver's license expires before your IDP expires, your permit becomes invalid when ready. For example, if you receive an IDP on January 15, 2024, and your Japanese license expires on December 31, 2024, your IDP will stop working on December 31 even though the permit itself is not due to expire until January 15, 2025. You must renew your Japanese license first, then obtain a new IDP if you need one.

Renewing your IDP before it expires

You can renew your IDP at any time before it expires. straightforward return to a JAF office with your current IDP, your valid Japanese driver's license, your passport, and a new photograph. The process is identical to the initial process. Your new IDP will be valid for one year from the date you renew it, not from the expiration date of the old one.

Many people renew their IDP a few weeks before traveling to may support it is valid for the entire trip. There is no penalty for renewing early, and you do not lose any value from the old permit — you straightforward pay the full fee again for the new one.

Using your IDP outside Japan

When you rent a car or drive in another country, carry both your Japanese driver's license and your International Driving Permit together. The IDP is a translation and supplement to your license, not a replacement. Car rental companies and police in other countries will want to see both documents. Your Japanese license proves you are licensed to drive; the IDP proves that license is valid in their country.

The IDP is recognized in most countries that are signatories to the Geneva Convention on Road Signs and Signals. This includes most of Europe, North America, South America, Australia, and many Asian countries. However, some countries do not recognize IDPs or have additional requirements. Before you travel, check the driving rules and license requirements for your specific destination, as some places may require an additional local permit or an International Driving Permit from a different issuing body.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an International Driving Permit if my Japanese license is suspended or revoked?

No. Your Japanese license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot obtain an IDP. You must first renew or restore your Japanese license through the prefectural police driving center.

Do I need to make an appointment at JAF, or can I just walk in?

Most JAF offices accept walk-ins, and the process is fast enough that you rarely wait more than 15 minutes. However, some branches in very busy areas may have appointment systems. Call the office you plan to visit to confirm whether an appointment is needed or recommended.

What if I lose my IDP while traveling abroad?

Contact the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate. They can issue a temporary replacement document that is valid for the remainder of your trip. When you return to Japan, you can obtain a new IDP from JAF. Keep a photocopy of your IDP in a separate location while traveling, as it can help you prove you had one if you need to replace it.

Can someone else pick up my IDP for me if I cannot go to JAF in person?

No. JAF requires the applicant to appear in person to verify identity and sign the process form. You must visit a JAF office yourself. If you are unable to visit during regular hours, some branches offer extended or weekend hours — call ahead to find one that fits your schedule.

Is an International Driving Permit the same as an International Driver's License?

No. An International Driving Permit is a translation document issued by JAF that supplements your Japanese license. An International Driver's License is a different credential issued by some other countries and is not recognized in Japan. Make sure you are obtaining an IDP, not a different type of license.