Why Japan is ending license conversions for foreign visitors, tourists
Japan’s National Police Agency is moving to tighten the rules for converting foreign driver’s licenses into Japanese ones, officially ending the practice for tourists and other short-term visitors.
The decision follows concerns over road safety and accountability after several high-profile traffic accidents involving foreign drivers.
Under the current system, foreigners with valid licenses from their home countries can obtain Japanese licenses if they pass basic knowledge and driving skill tests. However, the process does not require applicants to prove long-term residency, allowing some visitors to register hotels or temporary addresses, raising law enforcement concerns about accountability in the event of accidents.
Starting October 1, the revised system will require all applicants to present a certificate of residence, effectively limiting conversions to foreign residents living in Japan. Tourists will instead be required to use an international driving permit based on the Geneva Convention on Road Traffic, Japan Times reports.
Authorities also plan to toughen the licensing process itself. The written test will expand from 10 to 50 questions, and applicants must now score at least 90 percent to pass. The practical driving test will also have stricter grading criteria.
A recent agency survey of 15 countries found that none allowed tourists to convert licenses. Japan recorded a sharp increase in conversions in 2023, with about 68,000 foreign applicants.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
