Converting a foreign driver’s licence (gaimen kirikae)

As of July 2026. The test-exempt country list is set nationally by law (not by prefecture) and changes over time; procedures, required documents, fees and booking vary by prefecture — always confirm with your own prefectural licence centre before you go.

If you already drive, you may be able to convert your foreign licence to a Japanese one with part of the exam waived — the process known as gaimen kirikae (外国免許切替). Here’s the shape of it, from official sources.

What it is and where to go

“[Apply at] the driver’s license center of the prefectural police that has jurisdiction over your address in Japan.” (National Police Agency — translated)

You apply in person (no proxy). Note: an International Driving Permit cannot be converted this way — this is for a genuine foreign licence.

The key eligibility condition

“After obtaining the foreign licence, you must have stayed in that country for a cumulative total of 3 months or more.” (National Police Agency — translated)

This is normally proven with passport entry/exit stamps, so keep old passports that show your history.

Documents you’ll typically need

• Your valid foreign licence.
• A Japanese translation of it (JAF, or your country’s embassy/consulate, are commonly accepted translators).
• Passport(s) with entry/exit stamps proving the 3-month stay.
• A copy of your resident record (juminhyo) and ID such as a My Number card or residence card.
• One photo (taken within the last 6 months), the application form, and the fee.

The process — and why it depends on your country

“…driving knowledge and skill are checked, and if you are deemed able to drive safely, part of the exam (the knowledge test and the practical driving test) is exempted.” (National Police Agency — translated)

Everyone does a document check and an aptitude (eyesight) test. Whether you also sit a knowledge test and a practical driving test depends on the issuing country: applicants from designated countries/regions are exempt from those tests, while many others must pass them.

“The listed countries/regions are exempt from the knowledge check and the skill check.” (Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department — translated)

The exempt list is set nationally by regulation (it does not differ by prefecture) and changes over time, so we don’t reproduce it here — check the current nationwide list (National Police Agency) and your specific case. What varies by prefecture is the procedure, documents, fees and booking.

JAF translations

“JAF accepts and publishes Japanese translations of foreign licenses at its branches nationwide. … Provision of the translation does not guarantee a successful Gaimen Kirikae process.” (JAF)

JAF’s translation is applied for online (images of both sides of a valid licence), with a turnaround of roughly 2–3 business days for some countries and about 5–10 for others. Fees and turnaround change, so check JAF’s current details.

Time, booking and fees

Plan for more than a single quick visit. Many licence centres take applications by appointment, and if your country isn’t test-exempt you may need to return for the knowledge and practical driving tests. A fee applies (a standard car conversion is on the order of a few thousand yen; more if tests are involved) — confirm the exact amount, booking rules and how many visits are needed with your own prefectural licence centre.

FAQ

General information, current as of July 2026, not legal advice. The test-exempt country list is nationwide (set by law) and changes; documents, fees and procedures vary by prefecture — confirm every specific with your prefectural licence centre via the sources below.