Source data
Japan driving credentials recognized under National Police Agency guidance
Sources checked
- 01Identify the credential
Check whether it is a Japanese licence, a qualifying Geneva permit or a foreign licence from one of the listed issuers. Source 1
- 02Verify the translation or permit
For the translation route, use a translator authorized under the agency’s rules. Source 1
- 03Check the shorter validity window
Compare the expiry of the credential with the time since qualifying landing in Japan. Source 1
The agency lists a Japanese licence, a qualifying international permit and a limited foreign-licence translation route.
Japan driving credentials recognized under National Police Agency guidance
National Police Agency guidance as of 1 April 2026, checked 11 November 2026. The permission applies only while the credential is valid and subject to the agency’s time and vehicle category rules.
| Source | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Japanese driver’s licence | Japan | Valid for the period on the licence | Source 1 |
| International Driving Permit | 1949 Geneva Convention | Must be a qualifying permit from an authorized issuer | Source 2 |
| International Driving Permit | A different convention only | Outside the National Police Agency’s Geneva permit route | Source 2 |
| Foreign driver’s licence | Switzerland | Valid licence with an eligible Japanese translation | Source 1 |
| Foreign driver’s licence | Germany | Valid licence with an eligible Japanese translation | Source 1 |
| Foreign driver’s licence | France | Valid licence with an eligible Japanese translation | Source 1 |
| Foreign driver’s licence | Belgium | Valid licence with an eligible Japanese translation | Source 1 |
| Foreign driver’s licence | Monaco | Valid licence with an eligible Japanese translation | Source 1 |
| Foreign driver’s licence | Taiwan | Valid licence with an eligible Japanese translation | Source 1 |