Required Documents

  • Valid foreign driver’s license – and previous licenses, if you have them; if the license does not show the date of issue, or if the license was recently renewed, it may be necessary to submit additional documentation.
  • Japanese translation of foreign license – available from the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) or (sometimes) at the embassy or consulate of the issuing country in Japan.
  • Residence (Zairyu) Card – must have an up-to-date address.
  • Resident Certificate (Juminhyo) – issued within the past six months – must show Nationality.
  • Passport – and any expired passports; the passport is required to prove that you were in the country that issued your license for at least 90 days (can be non-consecutive) after you obtained your license.
  • Photo – one photo, 3 x 2.4 cm; must be taken within the last six months.
  • Previous Japanese license (if you have one).