Job Discussion Forums

rich45 · Joined: 26 Jan 2006 Posts: 127

Hi,

I have been driving on an International Driving License for almost a year now, but from what I gather, it isn't allowed to simply apply for another one.

I have heard conflicting reports about what to do next. I am from the UK so I don't think I have to take the same test as my American friends...can somebody confirm this? I hope this is true as apparently they fail everyone at least once.

So if I don't have to take a test, how do I go about getting a Japanese license?

Many thanks,

Rich Smile

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Do you have a license valid in the UK? If so, you can pay a little and get it converted over without having to take a test. You will have to show proof that you have had it for 3 months during which time you were in the UK theoretically using it (or at least able to use it).
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2022.html
http://www.jaf.or.jp/e/switch.htm
When it says "in principle" that JAF can do a translation of your license on the same day, it usually means only if you go there early in the morning.

If you don't have a valid UK license, then you will have to spend a ton of money on Japanese driving lessons, and take the written and behind-the-wheel test just like a Japanese.
http://www.japantoday.com/category/executive-impact/view/driving-lessons-available-for-foreigners

mc · Joined: 20 Jan 2003 Posts: 90 Location: Aichi, Japan

G Cthulhu · Posted: Mon Oct 31, 2011 10:02 pm Post subject:

rich45 · Joined: 26 Jan 2006 Posts: 127

Thanks for the replies, especially Glenski. Good to hear that they do pass some people first time...my friends must be unlucky (or otherwise).

bobbysix · Joined: 07 Oct 2010 Posts: 23

It's easy for us Brits - just go along to the license centre with your official translation of your UK license (from JMA), have an eye test and that's it as far as I can remember. No actual driving test required.