5 Ways for Foreign Engineers to Get a Driver’s License in Japanの画像

5 Ways for Foreign Engineers to Get a Driver’s License in Japan

For foreign engineers working in Japan, obtaining a driver’s license is an important step that not only provides freedom of movement but also enhances quality of life and expands career opportunities.

However, many hesitate due to language barriers and complex procedures.

This article provides a comprehensive explanation of five methods for foreign engineers to obtain a driver’s license in Japan and suggests the optimal choice for your specific situation.

What You’ll Learn From This Article
  • Five practical methods for foreign engineers to get Japanese driver’s licenses.
  • Specific costs, requirements, and procedures for each acquisition method.
  • License renewal rules and carrying obligations after acquisition.
日本で働く外国籍ITエンジニアのための転職エージェント

「日本企業で自分のスキルを試したい」
「ビザや住まいを一人で手配するのは不安…」
「日本語面接で強みを伝え切れるか心配」

このような悩みを、BLOOMTECH Career Globalがワンストップで解決します!

1. Benefits and Options for Foreign Engineers Driving in Japan

1. Benefits and Options for Foreign Engineers Driving in Japan

For foreign engineers working in Japan, obtaining a driver’s license means more than just securing transportation.

Particularly in Japan’s IT industry, it’s not uncommon to work in suburban offices or technology parks where access by public transportation is limited, not just in urban areas.

Here, we’ll provide a detailed explanation of the methods for foreign engineers to obtain a license in Japan and their benefits.

Why Driving in Japan Improves Quality of Life and Work

Obtaining a driver’s license in Japan significantly improves the quality of life and work for foreign engineers. Here are the main reasons:

Especially for IT engineers, work styles often include a combination of remote work and office attendance, or visiting multiple client sites. Having greater freedom of movement enhances job performance. In workplace environments where not only technical skills but also mobility are valued, being able to drive can sometimes lead to career advancement.

Work-related Benefits

  • Improved commuting flexibility
    Easy access to suburban technology parks or offices with poor public transportation
  • Safety assurance for late-night and early-morning work
    Secure safe transportation during shift work or emergency responses
  • Mobility during remote work
    Flexible response to client visits and meetings while working from home
  • Expanded career options
    Broader career paths to positions requiring driving skills (such as field engineers), etc.

Lifestyle Benefits

  • Enhanced daily convenience
    Easy bulk shopping at large supermarkets and furniture transport
  • Enriched leisure activities
    Travel to tourist destinations and natural spots that are difficult to access by public transportation
  • Emergency transportation
    Peace of mind in responding to emergencies such as sudden illness or disasters
  • Expanded possibilities for rural relocation
    Broader options for jobs or relocation to regional IT companies or satellite offices, etc.

Five Methods for Foreign Engineers to Obtain a Driver’s License

There are mainly five methods for foreign engineers to obtain a driver’s license for driving in Japan. Choose the optimal method according to your situation and conditions.

Each of these methods has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the optimal choice varies depending on your length of stay, country of origin, Japanese language ability, budget, and time constraints.

Convert an overseas driver’s license to a Japanese license

  • Convert a license obtained in your home country to a Japanese license
  • Relatively simple procedures with low costs
  • Test exemption conditions vary by country and region
  • Applicable to countries with many IT professionals (India, China, Vietnam, etc.)

Drive in Japan with an international driver’s license

  • Valid for up to one year (varies by treaty)
  • Suitable for temporary stays or short periods immediately after arriving in Japan
  • Simple procedures with immediate driving capability
  • Not suitable for permanent residents as it’s not a long-term solution

Attend a driving school in Japan to obtain a license

  • Method to obtain a license through the same process as Japanese citizens
  • Increasing number of driving schools with language support
  • Time-consuming and costly but reliable acquisition method
  • Systematic learning of Japanese traffic rules

Obtain a license in your home country before coming to Japan

  • Method of planning and preparing before coming to Japan
  • Fewer language barriers as you can learn in your native language
  • Simplified procedures in Japan
  • Efficient as preparation before coming to Japan

Utilize corporate support for license acquisition

  • Method to receive license acquisition support from your employing company
  • Can reduce financial and time burdens
  • Language support such as interpretation services can be expected
  • Sometimes provided as part of welfare benefits at IT companies

2. Method ①: Converting an Overseas Driver’s License to a Japanese License

Converting an Overseas Driver's License to a Japanese License

The most common and efficient method for foreign engineers is converting a driver’s license obtained in their home country to a Japanese license.

This method offers significant time and cost savings, especially for those who already have driving experience in their home country.

However, the difficulty of procedures and required tests vary by country of origin, so advance confirmation is necessary.

Conversion Procedure Flow and Required Conditions

The conversion procedure from an overseas driver’s license to a Japanese license follows this flow. Particularly for those who have just started working as IT engineers, applications must be made after establishing residence in Japan.

Additionally, proof of residence for three months or more must be demonstrable through entry/exit stamps and visa records, so it’s important to carefully preserve your passport.

For those on technical visas or engineer positions, some companies’ HR departments may provide support for license conversion, so it’s good to confirm this when joining the company.

Basic Conversion Procedure Flow

  1. Preliminary preparation
    Collection of required documents and obtaining translation documents
  2. Application and reception at the driver’s license center
  3. Document review and interview
  4. Aptitude test (vision test, etc.)
  5. Written test (exempted for some countries)
  6. Practical test (exempted for some countries)
  7. License issuance

Required Conditions for Conversion

  • The home country driver’s license must be within its validity period
  • Must have a record of residing in the country where the license was obtained for a total of three months or more after obtaining the license (important)
  • Must have a valid residence status
  • Must apply at the driver’s license center in the prefecture where you have a resident registration

Reference: Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Conversion to Japanese Driver’s License

Detailed Guide for Required Documents and Application Locations

Converting from an overseas license to a Japanese license requires the following documents. It’s important to prepare all documents without omission.

Required Documents List

  • Overseas driver’s license (within validity period)
  • Passport (showing residence of three months or more after license acquisition)
  • Residence card
  • Resident certificate (with registered domicile) ※Within 6 months of issuance
  • Photo (3cm × 2.4cm) ※Taken within 6 months before application
  • Japanese translation document of foreign license (issued by JAF or embassy/consulate of issuing country in Japan)
  • Application form (available at license center)

Important Required Documents

The translation document of the foreign license is particularly important. JAF (Japan Automobile Federation) translation is most common and can be obtained through the following process

  1. Obtain application form from JAF office or website
  2. Submit original license (no copies accepted) and application form to JAF
  3. Pay fee (approximately 3,000-4,000 yen)
  4. Translation document is usually issued within 1-2 weeks

Reference: JAF: Translation of Driver’s License

Application Location and Application Precautions

The application location is the driver’s license center in the prefecture where you are registered as a resident. In some prefectures, procedures may also be possible at designated police stations.

Application Precautions

  • Many driver’s license centers require reservations
  • Better to avoid busy periods (March-April, August-September)
  • Confirm in advance if interpretation is needed (some centers provide interpretation services)
  • Fees are often cash-only (approximately 2,500-4,500 yen)
  • Immediate issuance may not be possible even after passing tests

In major cities where many IT engineers live, such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, some driver’s license centers have English-speaking staff, but they are often crowded, so flexible schedule adjustment is necessary.

Reference: Kuru Navi: Driver’s License Center List

3. Method ②: Driving in Japan with an International Driver’s License

3. Method ②: Driving in Japan with an International Driver's License

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a convenient method for foreign engineers to easily drive immediately after arriving in Japan.

It’s particularly suitable for short-term projects or stays of less than one year.

However, due to limitations in validity period and conditions, it’s not a long-term solution.

Validity Conditions and Period for International Driver’s License

An international driver’s license is a supplementary document for driving licenses issued in your home country based on international treaties. The validity conditions and period for driving in Japan are as follows.

International driver’s licenses are convenient for IT engineers who need a car immediately upon arriving in Japan. For example, they can be used for short-term projects at regional data centers or as temporary transportation until housing is secured.

Validity Conditions for International Driver’s License

  • Must be carried together with a valid driver’s license issued in your home country
  • Must be issued based on applicable international treaties (mainly the Geneva Convention)
  • Must be officially issued by public institutions or authorized organizations in the issuing country
  • Must include the driver’s name and photograph
  • The home country driver’s license must be within its validity period

Validity Period Limitations

  • Valid for a maximum of one year from the date of entry into Japan
  • If you exit and re-enter the country, it’s valid for one year from the re-entry date (reset effect)
  • If one year has passed since the issue date, the remaining validity period is until one year from the issue date
  • Cannot be issued or renewed within Japan (must return to home country for renewal)

Reference: Metropolitan Police Department| For Holders of Foreign Driver’s Licenses How to Drive in Japan

Differences Between Geneva Convention and Vienna Convention and Precautions

There are two types of international driver’s licenses: those based on the Geneva Convention and those based on the Vienna Convention.

Since Japan is only a signatory to the Geneva Convention, international driver’s licenses based on the Vienna Convention cannot be used in Japan, which is an important precaution.

Many IT professionals from India, Singapore, Philippines, and other countries can use international driver’s licenses in Japan as these countries are signatories to the Geneva Convention.

However, some Eastern European countries with many engineers, such as Ukraine and Serbia, may not be signatories to the Geneva Convention, requiring attention.

Geneva Convention

  • Official name
    “Convention on Road Traffic” (Geneva Convention of September 19, 1949)
  • Overview
    Treaty aimed at international road traffic safety and facilitation
  • Signatory countries
    About 100 countries (USA, UK, Canada, Australia, India, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, South Korea, etc.)
  • Treatment in Japan
    Valid (Japan is also a signatory)

Vienna Convention

  • Official name: “Convention on Road Traffic” (Vienna Convention of November 8, 1968)
  • Overview: Newer treaty developing and updating the Geneva Convention
  • Signatory countries: About 80 countries (Germany, France, Italy, Russia, Brazil, etc.)
  • Treatment in Japan: Invalid (Japan is not a signatory)

Precautions

  • Confirm in advance which treaty your country has signed
  • Many Vienna Convention signatory countries are also signatories to the Geneva Convention
  • If your country is a signatory to both, obtain an international driver’s license based on the Geneva Convention
  • Confirm the format of the international driver’s license (Geneva Convention typically uses gray booklet format)

Reference: Metropolitan Police: Geneva Convention Signatory Countries

Relationship Between Residence Period and License Validity Period

Many foreign engineers come to Japan with work visas such as “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” or “Highly Skilled Professional”

These visas typically grant residence periods of 1-5 years, but international driver’s licenses are valid for a maximum of only one year, creating an important discrepancy.

Particularly for IT engineers, considering project extensions and settlement in Japan, it’s recommended to position international driver’s licenses as a temporary solution and begin Japanese license acquisition procedures within a few months of arrival.

Also, when driving with an international driver’s license, you must always carry both your home country driver’s license and international driver’s license. Having only one is invalid, so be careful.

Relationship Between Residence Status and International Driver’s License

  • Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa: Usually 1-5 years residence period
  • Highly Skilled Professional visa: Up to 5 years residence period
  • International driver’s license: Valid for maximum 1 year only
  • Gap: Residence period > International driver’s license validity period

Response After International Driver’s License Expires

  • Perform conversion procedures to Japanese driver’s license
  • Driving with an expired international driver’s license is considered driving without a license (subject to penalties)
  • Temporary return home to renew international driver’s license is possible, but the one-year limit per entry remains
  • For long-term stays, early Japanese license acquisition procedures should be pursued

Reference: Immigration Services Agency: “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services”

4. Method ③: Attending a Driving School in Japan to Obtain a License

4. Method ③: Attending a Driving School in Japan to Obtain a License

If you don’t have a driver’s license from your home country or cannot convert it, there’s the option of attending a driving school in Japan to obtain a license from scratch.

While this takes time and costs money, it’s a reliable method to obtain a Japanese license. In recent years, support systems for foreign nationals have been improving, making it easier for IT engineers to use.

Particularly in areas where many IT engineers live, many other foreign engineers often attend, making it a place for information exchange and networking.

Some IT companies have partnerships with specific driving schools as part of their welfare benefits, so it’s worth checking with your company’s HR department.

English-Supported Driving Schools for Foreign Engineers

Of the approximately 1,300 driving schools nationwide in Japan, an increasing number are providing English support services for foreign nationals, particularly IT engineers who use English.

We’ll introduce multilingual driving schools mainly in areas where major IT companies are concentrated.

English-Supported Driving Schools in Tokyo Area

  • Fuchu Driving School (Fuchu City, Tokyo): English curriculum available
  • Tokyo Driving School (Edogawa Ward, Tokyo): English and Chinese support
  • Koyama Driving School (Setagaya Ward, Tokyo): Programs for foreign nationals

Examples of English Support Services

  • Technical instruction by English-speaking instructors
  • Provision of English textbooks and materials
  • Academic classes conducted in English
  • Audio-visual materials with English subtitles
  • English question support and counseling
  • Support for procedures at license centers, etc.

Detailed Cost and Duration Comparison

The costs and duration for obtaining a driver’s license through driving schools in Japan vary by driving school type and region. Here are main examples for foreign engineers to consider.

Comparison Between Commuter and Residential Courses

ItemCommuter CourseResidential Course
Cost (General)Approx. 250,000-350,000 yenApprox. 200,000-300,000 yen
Cost (English Support)Approx. 300,000-400,000 yenApprox. 300,000-400,000 yen
Duration1-3 months2-3 weeks
AdvantagesCan attend while workingCan obtain in short period with concentration
DisadvantagesTakes timeNeed to take time off work

Additional Costs That May Occur

  • Additional technical instruction fees (if progress is slow): 5,000-7,000 yen/hour
  • Re-examination fees for test failures: 5,000-10,000 yen
  • Interpretation services (if needed): 5,000-10,000 yen/day
  • Accommodation fees (usually included for residential courses): 5,000-8,000 yen/night
  • Transportation costs (for commuter courses): Varies by location

Key Points for Choosing a Driving School

Here are checkpoints for foreign engineers to select an appropriate driving school. Compare several driving schools and use tours and free consultations to choose a driving school that suits you.

Language Support Confirmation Items

  • Types and levels of supported languages (simple interpretation or professional instruction capability)
  • Number of English-speaking instructors and ease of booking
  • Quality and quantity of English materials (original materials or simple translations)
  • Availability of English support for academic tests
  • Support for procedures at license centers after graduation, etc.

Facility and Service Confirmation Items

  • Types (AT/MT) and condition of training vehicles
  • Facility completeness (rest areas, Wi-Fi environment, etc.)
  • Graduate pass rates
  • Track record and reputation for accepting foreign nationals
  • Cancellation policy and flexibility (for emergency work situations, etc.)

Cost Verification Points

  • Clear fee structure (no hidden costs)
  • Availability of installment payments or credit card payments
  • Corporate contracts or discount systems
  • Additional fees for supplementary lessons or extensions, etc.

5. Method ④: Obtaining a License in Your Home Country Before Coming to Japan

5. Method ④: Obtaining a License in Your Home Country Before Coming to Japan

For those planning to work as engineers in Japan, the option of obtaining a license in your home country first is very efficient.

It’s often difficult to secure time to attend driving school during the adaptation period after arriving in Japan, and obtaining a license in advance as preparation allows you to secure smooth transportation immediately after arrival.

Planning from License Acquisition in Home Country to Use in Japan

To obtain a license in your home country and effectively use it in Japan requires systematic preparation. Below is the main flow in chronological order.

Particularly for those who have secured employment as IT engineers, work often begins immediately after arrival, making it important to secure transportation in advance.

This becomes even more important when employment at locations with limited public transportation access has been decided.

Preparation 3-6 Months Before Coming to Japan

  1. Begin home country driver’s license acquisition procedures
    • Preparation for written and practical tests
    • Attending required courses
    • Test reservations and taking exams
  2. Obtain driver’s license
    • Confirm sufficient validity period remaining (ideally 2+ years)
  3. Prepare for international driver’s license application
    • Confirm documents needed for application
    • Research application institutions and procedures

Preparation 1-2 Months Before Coming to Japan

  1. Obtain international driver’s license
    • Confirm Japan’s membership in Geneva Convention
    • Check validity period and issue date (valid only within 1 year from issue date)
  2. Research Japanese driver’s license conversion procedures
    • Confirm whether your country’s license qualifies for test exemption
    • Create list of required documents
  3. Prepare proof of residence in home country
    • Prepare documents proving residence of 3+ months after license acquisition
    • Preserve passport entry/exit stamps (important)

Procedures After Arriving in Japan

For short-term stays (within 1 year)
  • Use international driver’s license for driving (maximum 1 year)
For long-term stays
  • Begin driver’s license conversion procedures after completing resident registration
  • Procedures at driver’s license center in area of residence
  • Take written and practical tests as necessary

Benefits and Cost Comparison of Obtaining License in Home Country

The approach of obtaining a driver’s license in your home country before coming to Japan has various advantages and disadvantages. Let’s compare including cost aspects.

Benefits of Obtaining in Home Country

  • Can learn in native language, eliminating language barriers
  • Often cheaper than Japan in many countries (especially Southeast Asia, South Asia)
  • Easy to receive support from family and friends
  • Can acquire driving skills in familiar environment
  • No burden of attending driving school during adaptation period after arriving
  • Can immediately secure commuting transportation to workplace, etc.

Disadvantages of Obtaining in Home Country

  • Fewer opportunities to learn Japan-specific traffic rules and driving customs
  • Conversion procedures still necessary after arriving in Japan
  • International credibility of licenses varies by country (affects test exemption availability)
  • Schedule coordination needed if parallel with job hunting, etc.

Cost Comparison Examples (General Trends)

Country/RegionLicense Acquisition Cost (Estimate)Compared to Japan
Japan250,000-350,000 yen
USA100,000-200,000 yen30-50% cheaper
India50,000-100,000 yen70-80% cheaper
China100,000-150,000 yen50-60% cheaper
Philippines30,000-80,000 yen80-90% cheaper
Vietnam50,000-100,000 yen70-80% cheaper
European Countries150,000-250,000 yen20-40% cheaper

Overall, particularly for IT engineers from Asian countries, obtaining licenses in their home countries is often more economical.

However, whether the country qualifies for test exemption is also an important consideration point.

Pre-Arrival Preparation Checklist

Here’s a preparation checklist for foreign engineers planning license acquisition before coming to Japan. Proceed with preparation systematically.

License Acquisition Preparation

□ Confirm and prepare for home country driver's license acquisition conditions
(age limits, required documents, etc.)
□ Book and take written and practical tests
□ Obtain and receive driver's license
□ Check license validity period (ideally 2+ years from planned arrival date)
□ Plan to stay in home country for 3+ months after license acquisition
(important condition for conversion)

International Driver’s License Preparation

□ Confirm international driver's license application conditions and procedures 
□ Prepare application documents (photos, fees, etc.)
□ Complete international driver's license issuance procedures
(ideally 1-2 months before coming to Japan)
□ Check international driver's license validity period (1 year from issue date)

Preparation for Use in Japan

□ Acquire basic knowledge of Japanese traffic rules (left-side driving, etc.) 
□ Safely store originals of home country license and international driver's license
□ Prepare documents proving residence in home country (passport with entry/exit stamps, etc.)
□ Confirm preparation methods for Japanese translation of license (JAF translation, etc.)
□ Confirm location of Japanese driver's license centers and conversion procedures
□ Confirm resident registration procedures after arriving in Japan (prerequisite for license conversion)

6. Method ⑤: Utilizing Corporate Support for License Acquisition

6. Method ⑤: Utilizing Corporate Support for License Acquisition

IT companies in Japan, particularly those actively hiring foreign engineers, are increasingly establishing support systems for driver’s license acquisition.

By utilizing these systems, you can obtain a license while reducing financial and time burdens.

Types and Examples of Corporate Support for License Acquisition

Corporate support for foreign engineers’ license acquisition can be mainly divided into the following three categories:

1. Financial Support

  • Full coverage of license acquisition costs (some major IT companies)
  • Partial subsidy for license acquisition costs (approximately 50,000-150,000 yen)
  • Reward system after license acquisition
  • Discounts through corporate contracts with driving schools (10-20% off)
  • Interest-free loan system for costs (installment repayment possible), etc.

2. Time Support

  • Special leave system for license acquisition (3-5 days)
  • Flexible use of flextime systems
  • Support for taking long leave to participate in residential driving courses
  • Temporary application of reduced working hours
  • Priority leave acquisition for license test days, etc.

3. Procedural Support

  • In-house interpreter accompaniment services
  • Application document preparation assistance
  • Reservation agency services
  • Translation document acquisition support
  • Transportation services to license centers, etc.

The content and comprehensiveness of this support varies depending on company size, industry type, and the proportion of foreign employees. It’s important to research thoroughly in advance.

Examples of License Acquisition Support from Engineer-Hiring Companies

Let’s look at examples of actual license acquisition support systems at IT companies.

Support content varies greatly depending on company size and location conditions. Also, as competition for hiring foreign engineers has intensified in recent years, more companies are enhancing license acquisition support as part of their welfare benefits.

Major IT Company A Example

  • Support target: Foreign employees within 1 year of joining
  • Support content: 80% subsidy for license acquisition costs (up to 200,000 yen)
  • Features: Implemented as part of onboarding program
  • Conditions: Repayment obligation if voluntary resignation within 3 years of joining
  • Track record: About 50 foreign engineers use annually

Foreign IT Company B Example

  • Support target: Foreign engineers hired directly from overseas
  • Support content: Full coverage of license acquisition costs as part of relocation package
  • Features: Partnership with English-supported driving schools, dedicated slots secured
  • Conditions: Application required before joining or within 6 months of joining
  • Track record: About 70% of hired foreign engineers use

Small-Medium IT Company C Example

  • Support target: Foreign employees requiring car commuting
  • Support content: 50% subsidy for driving school costs + 5 days special leave
  • Features: Partnership with local driving school also providing interpretation services
  • Conditions: Must have worked for 3+ months
  • Track record: Over 10 foreign engineers have used so far

7. License Renewal and Carrying Obligations After Acquisition

7. License Renewal and Carrying Obligations After Acquisition

Even after obtaining a Japanese driver’s license, there are rules that must be continuously followed, such as regular renewal procedures and carrying obligations.

Particularly for foreign engineers, the relationship with residence status is also important. Here we’ll explain various procedures and precautions after license acquisition.

Relationship Between Residence Status and License Renewal

Driver’s licenses for foreign nationals are usually greatly affected by their residence period.

Particularly those with “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” or “Highly Skilled Professional” visas, which are common among IT engineers, need to pay attention to the following points:

Relationship Between Residence Status and License Validity Period

  • In principle, the driver’s license validity period cannot exceed the residence period
  • When the residence period is shorter than the normal license renewal period (3 or 5 years), the residence period takes priority
  • When residence status is renewed or changed, procedures for changing license information are required
  • Permanent residents receive the same renewal period as Japanese citizens (5 years for excellent drivers)
  • Highly Skilled Professional visas (Categories 1 & 2) also basically receive the same renewal period as Japanese citizens

For example, if you have a technical visa with a 1-year residence period, the license validity period will also be a maximum of 1 year. Also, when the residence period is renewed, perform the information change procedures at the driver’s license center as soon as possible.

Special Cases to Note

  • Residence status type changes (e.g., “Engineer” to “Permanent Resident”): License validity period may change
  • Residence card information changes due to employer changes: Update license information as necessary
  • Driving during residence period renewal: Usually no problem if application is in progress, but carrying proof documents provides peace of mind
  • In case of naturalization: Information change procedures for license required due to nationality change

IT engineers often experience residence status changes due to job changes or promotions.

Particularly when changing from foreign companies to Japanese companies or establishing startups, carefully confirm the relationship between residence status and license.

Reference: Metropolitan Police: License Renewal at Driver’s License Test Centers

Renewal Procedure Flow and Required Documents

Driver’s license renewal must be performed within one month before and after the expiration date. For foreign nationals, documents related to residence status are also required in addition to general renewal procedures.

Many foreign engineers may be concerned about whether they can understand the renewal lectures.

Some driver’s license centers also conduct lectures in English, but it’s recommended to confirm and make reservations in advance. Interpreter accompaniment is basically permitted, but prior confirmation is also required.

Also, busy periods (March, September, etc.) are very crowded, so make plans with plenty of time.

Renewal Timing and Location

  • Renewal period: Within 1 month before and after expiration date
  • Renewal location: Driver’s license center or designated police station in prefecture of resident registration
  • Reception hours: Start around 8:30-9:30 AM on weekdays (varies by region), early arrival recommended
  • Reservation system: Some regions have online reservation systems (multilingual support is limited)

Lecture Categories and Fees

  • Excellent drivers (Gold license): 5-year renewal period, about 30-minute lecture, about 3,000 yen fee
  • General drivers: 3-year renewal period, about 1-hour lecture, about 3,500 yen fee
  • Violation drivers: 3-year renewal period, about 2-hour lecture, about 3,500 yen fee
  • First-time renewers: 3-year renewal period, about 2-hour lecture, about 3,500 yen fee

Required Documents

  • Current driver’s license
  • Items needed for vision test (glasses, contact lenses if required)
  • Residence card or special permanent resident certificate (required for foreign nationals)
  • Resident certificate (issued within 3 months, if necessary)
  • Renewal fee
  • Renewal notification postcard (if received)

Renewal Procedure Flow

  1. Reception and document verification
  2. Vision and other aptitude tests
  3. Photography
  4. Fee payment
  5. Renewal lecture attendance
  6. New license issuance

Penalties and Precautions for Unlicensed Driving and License Non-Carrying

Japan has strict carrying obligations for driver’s licenses, with severe penalties for unlicensed driving and license non-carrying.

Particularly for foreign nationals, unexpected troubles can arise from lack of knowledge, so it’s important to understand these thoroughly.

If you lose your license, immediately file a loss report at the nearest police station and perform reissuance procedures at the driver’s license center. Never drive until reissuance is completed.

Unlicensed driving is treated as a criminal act rather than a simple traffic violation and may negatively affect residence status renewal or changes, and even permanent residence permit applications.

To protect your career as an IT engineer, strictly observe license-related rules.

Definition and Penalties for Unlicensed Driving

  • Definition: Not having obtained a license, license expired or suspended, not having appropriate license type, etc.
  • Legal penalties: Up to 3 years imprisonment or fine up to 500,000 yen
  • Administrative disposition: 35 violation points (immediate license cancellation)
  • In case of accidents: Criminal penalties may be increased, insurance may not apply
  • Impact on foreign nationals: May negatively affect residence status renewal examinations

Definition and Penalties for License Non-Carrying

  • Definition: Not carrying a valid license while driving
  • Penalties: Fine for regular cars
  • Administrative disposition: No violation points
  • Precaution: Copies of licenses are insufficient; original required

Points Foreign Engineers Should Particularly Note

  • Only originals are valid (smartphone photos or copies not acceptable)
  • When using international driver’s license, carry both home country license and international driver’s license
  • Carrying residence card together provides peace of mind (police officers may request presentation)
  • Temporary licenses during renewal procedures are also subject to carrying obligations

Reference: Japanese Law Translation | Road Traffic Law

8. Frequently Asked Questions About Driver’s Licenses for Foreign Engineers

8. Frequently Asked Questions About Driver's Licenses for Foreign Engineers

Foreign engineers likely have many questions about Japanese driver’s licenses. Here we’ll address particularly frequently inquired matters.

Name Notation and Joint Registration of Common Names and Former Names

Name notation on driver’s licenses for foreign nationals is one of the points many people worry about. Let’s explain the basic rules.

Basic Name Notation Rules

  • Driver’s license names basically conform to residence card or special permanent resident certificate notation
  • Japanese name notation if available, alphabetic notation if not
  • Middle names are basically treated as part of the “given name”
  • If names are long, some abbreviation may occur, but this doesn’t affect effectiveness as official identification

Joint Registration of Common Names and Former Names

  • Common names: Joint registration possible if recorded in official documents like resident certificates or social insurance certificates
  • Former names: Joint registration possible if confirmable through family registers, resident certificates, etc.
  • Joint registration format: Displayed as “Official name (Common name)” or “Official name (Former name)”

Particularly for IT engineers, since the names used within companies (English names or Japanese common names) often differ from official names on documents, joint registration of commonly used names as common names improves daily convenience.

Also, in cases of name changes due to marriage or divorce, joint registration of former names makes it easier to show continuity of identity.

Relationship Between Japanese Language Ability and License Acquisition

Let’s explain what level of Japanese ability is necessary for foreign engineers, etc.

Japanese Level Required for License Acquisition Process

  • Written test: Multilingual support available at many license centers (English, Chinese, Portuguese, etc.)
  • Practical test: Basic Japanese instruction comprehension required (left, right, stop, back, etc.)
  • Driving school lectures: Limited foreign language support, interpreter support often needed
  • License conversion procedures: Basic conversational ability or interpreter accompaniment recommended
  • License renewal procedures: Basic conversational ability or interpreter accompaniment recommended

Relationship with Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)

While there are no official requirements, as a guideline.

  • N3 level: Can handle most license acquisition processes independently
  • N4 level: Can understand basic instructions but detailed explanations are difficult
  • N5 and below: Interpreter support strongly recommended

Reference: Japanese Language Proficiency Test JLPT: Certification Guidelines

The Complete Guide to JLPT for Foreign IT Engineers
The Complete Guide to JLPT for Foreign IT Engineers
Discover how JLPT certification can boost IT careers in Japan.
https://global.bloomtechcareer.com/media/contents/japanese-language-proficiency-test-jlpt/

License Handling During Job Changes and Visa Change Precautions

The IT industry is an active job-changing industry. Let’s explain license-related procedures required during job changes or visa changes.

Procedures Required During Job Changes

Address change: When job change involves relocation, address change procedures to new address required

  • Procedure location: Driver’s license center or police station in new address area
  • Required documents: Current license, resident certificate of new address, residence card
  • Fee: Free or small amount (varies by region)

Company name/workplace information: Not recorded on license, so no change procedures required

Commute route changes: No special procedures required (separate contact with insurance company required)

Precautions for Visa Changes

Residence Status Type Changes
  • “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” → “Permanent Resident”: License renewal period becomes same as Japanese citizens
  • “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” → “Spouse visa”: License period restrictions due to residence period change
  • “Student” → “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services”: Employment becomes possible, commuting use allowed
Residence Period Renewal/Extension
  • Information change procedures for license required corresponding to new residence period
  • Procedure location: Driver’s license center in address area
  • Required documents: Current license, new residence card, resident certificate
Name Changes Due to Visa Changes (marriage, etc.)
  • Name change procedures required
  • Joint registration of former names also effective

9. Experience Stories of Foreign Engineers Obtaining Licenses in Japan

9. Experience Stories of Foreign Engineers Obtaining Licenses in Japan

Let’s introduce experience stories of foreign engineers who actually obtained driver’s licenses in Japan.

Through examples from various nationalities and different acquisition methods, find reference information suitable for your situation.

Rajiv (From India, 32 years old) “Experience Converting Home Country License to Japanese License”

About Rajiv
Works as a backend engineer at a major IT company, obtained Japanese license in his second year in Japan.

“The most challenging part of converting my Indian license to a Japanese license was obtaining accurate translation documents. I applied to JAF, but there were ambiguous parts in my Indian license content, requiring additional certificates. Also, during the practical test, I was confused by Japan’s specific detailed scoring standards. Particularly, confirmation actions during ‘complete stops’ and other aspects not taught in India were numerous.”

Rajiv’s Success Points

“I learned Japanese driving rules through YouTube and had Japanese colleagues at my company accompany me for practice. Also, to accurately understand test examiner instructions, I memorized basic Japanese terminology related to driving (right turn, left turn, reverse, complete stop, etc.). From application to acquisition took about 2 months, but the total cost including translation fees was about 15,000 yen, which was economical”

Chang (From China, 28 years old) “Balancing Driving School Attendance with Work”

About Chang
Works as a frontend engineer at a startup company, obtained license by attending driving school in his third year in Japan.

“Initially, I tried to attend a commuter driving school, but due to irregular development schedules, I often had to cancel reservations and couldn’t progress as planned. So I decided to take 2 weeks of vacation and participate in a residential driving course with Chinese language support. At the driving school, I struggled to understand technical terms, but since there were Chinese-supported materials, I could pass the written test smoothly.”

Chang’s Key to Success

“Residential driving courses allowed me to concentrate and made it easier to separate work. The cost was about 280,000 yen, which was expensive, but considering the subsequent expansion of my range of activities, it was a worthwhile investment. When considering residential driving courses, I recommend avoiding busy periods (spring and summer vacations) for reservations and studying basic traffic rules in advance”

Mike (From USA, 35 years old) “Conversion Experience Utilizing Test Exemption Benefits”

About Mike
Works as a project manager at a foreign IT company, converted his US (Hawaii) license to a Japanese license in his first year in Japan.

“I drove with an international driver’s license for the first six months, but decided to convert when I decided on long-term residence. Since Hawaii qualified for test exemption, the procedures were very smooth. The conversion procedures were completed in one day, and the cost was only about 5,000 yen”

Mike’s Advice

“Those from test-exempt countries should make full use of that privilege. Also, check your company’s welfare benefits. My company provided interpreter services for license acquisition as part of relocation support. For actual driving, I recommend starting practice in suburban areas with few people and gradually getting used to urban areas”

10. Foreign Engineers’ Driver’s License Acquisition: “Choose the Method That Suits You”

Driver’s license acquisition in Japan for foreign engineers may seem like a high hurdle at first glance, but it can be efficiently achieved by choosing the appropriate method.

Whether converting home country licenses, utilizing international licenses, attending Japanese driving schools, planning before coming to Japan, or using corporate support, choose the method that suits your situation.

Don’t be intimidated by language barriers or complex procedures. Utilize surrounding support while expanding your range of activities in Japan and enjoy a more fulfilling engineer life.

日本で働く外国籍ITエンジニアのための転職エージェント

「日本企業で自分のスキルを試したい」
「ビザや住まいを一人で手配するのは不安…」
「日本語面接で強みを伝え切れるか心配」

このような悩みを、BLOOMTECH Career Globalがワンストップで解決します!

「BLOOM THCH Career for Global」
日本で活躍したい、日本で働きたい外国籍ITエンジニアに特化した転職エージェント

私たちは、日本で働きたいグローバル人材×IT分野に特化した転職エージェントとして、みなさまをサポートします。
豊富な実績と専門性を活かしたサポートをご提供。キャリア面談から求人紹介、企業との選考や条件交渉まで、経験豊富なキャリアアドバイザーが一貫してサポートいたしますので、安心してお任せください。