How to drive in Japan with a foreign licence (2026 guide)
· 7 min read
The essential document: the official JAF translation
If your licence was issued in France, Switzerland, Belgium, Monaco, Germany or Taiwan, an international driving permit is useless in Japan: it is not recognised there. Japanese law requires one specific document — the official translation of your licence issued by the JAF (Japan Automobile Federation), the only authorised body. Presented with your original licence and passport, it allows you to drive for one year from your entry into the country.
Driving on the left: easier than you think
In Japan, you drive on the left with the steering wheel on the right. The good news: nearly all rental cars are automatic, major roads are signposted in English, and drivers are genuinely courteous. Most travellers adjust within an hour. Watch out for the inverted indicator stalk during the first days!
Rules you absolutely must know
Zero tolerance for drink-driving (passengers letting a drunk driver take the wheel are also liable). Speed limits: around 40 km/h in cities, 100–120 km/h on expressways. Phone use at the wheel is heavily fined. Children under 6 must travel in a child seat.
Checklist before taking the wheel
1. Valid original driving licence. 2. Official JAF translation (order it online before departure — the simplest way). 3. Passport. 4. Car booking with an ETC card for tolls if you plan to use expressways. With these four items, you are fully compliant.