New Requirements for Driver’s ⁣License Conversion

Tokyo, Japan – ⁣As of Wednesday, October‍ 1, 2025, Japan began enforcing ⁢stricter regulations for foreigners seeking to convert their overseas driver’s licenses⁤ to Japanese licenses. ⁣ The key ​change requires all applicants to⁣ submit a copy ⁤of a valid residence certificate (juminhyō) to⁢ verify ‍their address. This effectively ⁤disqualifies tourists and short-term visitors without established residency from obtaining a Japanese ‍driver’s license.

Previously,tourists could frequently enough convert their licenses for a limited period,facilitating ⁣travel within Japan. The new rules eliminate this option,requiring all ⁣applicants to demonstrate ‍proof of legal residency within ⁣the country.⁣ The Ministry ⁣of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and tourism (MLIT) has‌ not yet released detailed statistics on the number of licenses previously converted by tourists annually, but anecdotal ⁢evidence suggests a notable number relied on this pathway.

What is a Residence Certificate (Juminhyō)?

A juminhyō is an⁢ official document issued⁣ by the local municipal office‌ in Japan, confirming an individual’s registered address and residency status. It’s a ​standard requirement for many administrative procedures ​in Japan, including registering a mobile phone, opening a bank account, and now, converting a driver’s license. Obtaining a juminhyō requires registration at the local city hall after establishing residency.

foreign residents ⁣can obtain a juminhyō after completing the​ process of​ registering their address with their local municipal office.This typically involves presenting their passport, residence card​ (zairyū ‍card), and proof of address. The process and required documentation can vary slightly depending on the municipality.

Impact on Foreign Residents ⁣and Tourists

The new rules primarily affect:

• New foreign residents: Individuals newly⁤ arriving in Japan and wishing to drive‍ will need to establish residency and obtain a juminhyō before applying for a license conversion.
• Tourists: Tourists will no longer be able to convert their existing driver’s ⁤licenses for use in Japan. They will need to ⁣rely on​ alternative transportation options, such as public transport, taxis, or the International Driving Permit (IDP) – which has its own limitations (see below).
• Short-term visa holders: Individuals in Japan on short-term visas⁤ (e.g., business, study for less than 90 days) will also be ineligible for license conversion without establishing residency.

The International Driving Permit (IDP), based on‌ the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic,⁢ remains a valid option for short-term visitors. Though, the IDP is only valid for one year from the date of issue‌ and requires the visitor to continue holding a valid driver’s license ​in their home country. It’s significant to ⁣note that the IDP allows driving only for the purpose stated⁤ on the visa.