By Alimat Aliyeva
The National Police Agency of Japan is set to revise the system
for exchanging foreign driver’s licenses for Japanese ones. Under
the updated rules, short-term visitors, including foreign tourists,
will no longer be able to convert their overseas driver’s licenses
into Japanese licenses. Lawmakers argue that when foreigners with
licenses obtained through a simplified process—without long-term
residence registration in Japan—are involved in traffic accidents,
it becomes difficult for law enforcement to thoroughly investigate
such cases, Azernews reports.
Under the current regulations, foreign tourists wishing to drive
in Japan must provide proof of their driving knowledge and skills.
In 2023, a record 68,000 foreigners successfully obtained a
Japanese driver’s license. However, starting October 1, 2025, the
new rules will require foreign tourists to hold an international
driver’s license issued under the Geneva Convention on Road
Traffic. Additionally, foreign drivers will have to pass a written
exam, answering at least 90% of the 50 questions on Japanese
traffic laws, as well as a more stringent practical driving test to
demonstrate their skills.
This shift comes after concerns about safety, especially in
tourist-heavy areas where rental cars are common. There is also
speculation that these changes may be aimed at ensuring more
control over foreign drivers and reducing the risks posed by
accidents caused by those unfamiliar with Japan’s unique road
rules. Moreover, the revision may contribute to the growing trend
of increased international awareness regarding road safety in
countries with a heavy influx of visitors, like Japan.
Interestingly, while the stricter rules could mean more hurdles
for foreign visitors, Japan is also working on increasing the
availability of English-language resources to help international
drivers better understand local traffic laws, helping mitigate some
of the potential inconveniences.
AloJapan.com