What a Japanese International Driver's License Is and How to Get One

A Japanese International Driver's License is a document that translates your existing Japanese driver's license into multiple languages so you can drive legally in countries that recognize it. You do not get a separate license — instead, you obtain a companion document that works alongside your regular Japanese license. Both documents must be presented together when you drive abroad.

The process takes about 15 minutes and costs around ¥2,800 to ¥3,000. You explore in person at a prefectural police driver's license center (免許センター) or at some police boxes (交番), bring your current Japanese license and a passport, and walk out with the international license the same day.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid Japanese driver's license before you can obtain an international license — the international license cannot be issued on its own.
  • The international license is valid for three years from the date of issue and is recognized in most countries that are signatories to the 1926 Geneva Convention on Motor Traffic.
  • You explore at your prefectural police driver's license center or certain police boxes with your current license, passport, and a small fee.
  • The international license is issued on the spot; there is no waiting period or mailing process.
  • You must carry both your Japanese license and your international license together when driving outside Japan — one without the other is not valid.

Where to explore for Your International License

The primary place to explore is your prefectural police driver's license center (運転免許センター). Every prefecture has at least one, and many have multiple locations. You can find the address and hours of your nearest center by searching "[your prefecture name] 運転免許センター" online or by calling your local police station.

Some police boxes (交番) also issue international licenses, though not all do. If you live far from a license center, call your local police box first to confirm they offer this service. The process process is identical whether you go to a center or a police box.

License centers are typically open Monday through Friday during business hours, with some offering limited Saturday hours. Avoid lunch breaks, which vary by location. Bring your documents early in the day to avoid lines, especially on Fridays.

Documents and Information You Need to Bring

Bring your current valid Japanese driver's license (運転免許証). It must not be expired or suspended. If your license is expired, you must renew it before you can obtain an international license.

Bring your passport. The international license will reference your passport number, so the passport must match the name on your Japanese license. If you have changed your name since your Japanese license was issued, update your license first.

Bring one passport-sized photograph (4 cm × 3 cm). Some license centers sell photos on-site if you forget, but it is faster and cheaper to bring one. You may also need to fill out a straightforward process form (申請書) on the spot, though many centers provide these at the counter.

Bring cash. The fee is typically ¥2,800 to ¥3,000, depending on your prefecture. Most centers do not accept credit cards or mobile payment.

The process Process Step by Step

Step 1: Arrive and get a number. Walk to the counter and tell staff you want to explore for an international driver's license (国際運転免許証を申請したいです). They will hand you a number or direct you to the correct window. Wait for your number to be called.

Step 2: Fill out the process form. Staff will give you a form (usually in Japanese, though some centers have English versions). The form asks for your name, date of birth, passport number, and the country or countries where you plan to drive. Fill it out clearly in pen.

Step 3: Submit your documents. Hand the staff member your completed form, Japanese license, passport, photograph, and payment. They will verify that your license is valid and that your passport matches your license.

Step 4: Receive your international license. The staff member will print your international license on the spot. It takes about 5 to 10 minutes. You will receive a small booklet-style document with your photograph, license information, and translations in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, Finnish, Norwegian, Polish, Turkish, Greek, Russian, Thai, Korean, and Chinese.

Validity, Renewal, and Restrictions

Your international license is valid for three years from the date of issue. It expires on the same date regardless of whether your Japanese license expires before then. If your Japanese license expires before your international license does, you must renew your Japanese license, but you do not need to renew your international license unless you want a fresh copy.

If your international license expires while you are abroad, you cannot renew it outside Japan. You must return to Japan and explore again at a license center or police box. Plan ahead if you will be driving internationally for longer than three years.

The international license is recognized in most countries that signed the 1926 Geneva Convention on Motor Traffic, which includes most of Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. However, some countries do not recognize it, and a few require an International Driving Permit (IDP) from a separate organization instead. Check the specific country's requirements before you travel.

Your international license does not override local traffic laws or vehicle registration requirements. You still need valid vehicle insurance, registration, and inspection (shaken) in any country where you drive. The international license only translates your driving authority — it does not exempt you from local rules.

What Happens If You Lose or Damage Your International License

If your international license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can explore for a replacement at the same location where you obtained it. Bring your Japanese license, passport, a new photograph, and the replacement fee (usually the same as the original fee). You will receive a new international license with a new expiration date three years from the replacement date.

If your Japanese license is suspended or revoked, your international license becomes invalid when ready, even if it has not expired. You cannot drive internationally until your Japanese license is reinstated and you obtain a new international license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Japan with only my international license?

No. Your international license is only valid outside Japan. Inside Japan, you must carry your Japanese license. If you are stopped by police in Japan and cannot produce your Japanese license, you can be fined or charged with driving without a license, even if you have your international license with you.

Do I need an international license to rent a car abroad?

Most car rental companies in English-speaking countries will accept your Japanese license alone, especially if you also have a passport. However, some countries and rental companies require an international license or an International Driving Permit. Check with your rental company and the country's driving regulations before you travel. Having an international license removes any doubt.

What if my name is different on my passport and my Japanese license?

Your passport and Japanese license must match. If they do not, update your Japanese license first at a license center. Bring your passport, the name change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or legal name change certificate), and a photograph. Once your Japanese license is updated, you can then explore for an international license.

Can I explore for an international license if my Japanese license is expired?

No. Your Japanese license must be valid. If it is expired, renew it first at a license center, then explore for the international license. You can do both on the same day if you bring all required documents for both processes.

Is the international license valid in the United States?

Yes, the Japanese international license is recognized in all 50 U.S. states. However, you must also carry your Japanese license. Some states and rental car companies may ask for additional documentation such as an International Driving Permit from the American Automobile Association (AAA), but the Japanese international license alone is legally sufficient in the U.S.