A license training camp is a way to aim to obtain a license in a short period of time while staying at a facility provided by a driving school for a certain period of time. You can get your license in a short period of time, and there are various benefits such as support for food and transportation expenses.
However, you may be wondering whether you can really use the program and whether there are any prerequisites for admission.
In this article, we will introduce the conditions for participating in the license training camp and the procedures to clear the conditions. We will also explain whether or not you can enroll if you have a disability or if your native language is not Japanese, and how to choose a driving school for your license training camp. Please use this as a reference if you are aiming to obtain a driver's license at a license training camp.
目次
- What types of licenses can you get at a driving school and what are the conditions?
- What if someone who is not good at Japanese wants to participate in a driver's license training camp?
- Things to check if you have a disability or illness and want to participate in a driver's license training camp
- What are the points to consider when choosing a driver's license training camp?
- If you want to attend a driving school, first check the admission requirements.
What types of licenses can you get at a driving school and what are the conditions?
There is no big difference in the type of license you can obtain between a license training camp where you stay at a driving school and a commuting license where you commute to a driving school. However, in the case of Driving Camp, restrictions may not be lifted. Please check with the driving school in advance to see if it corresponds to the license you want to obtain.
We will explain in detail the types and conditions of licenses that can be obtained at the license training camp.
Conditions such as driver license type and age
Depending on the type of driver's license you want to obtain in the first place, conditions may be imposed, such as age restrictions and driving experience after obtaining a regular license. First, check the conditions for each type of license and make sure you meet the conditions to obtain the license you want.
| Type of license | Vehicles that can be driven | age | driver licence | eyesight | deep vision |
| Ordinary license |
|
18 years old or older (You can enter the school approximately 7-9 days before turning 18 years old: This varies depending on the school and license you have) | – | 0.3 or more in one eye, 0.7 or more in both eyes | – |
| AT limited regular license |
|
Same as above | – | 0.3 or more in one eye, 0.7 or more in both eyes | – |
| Regular Motorcycle license |
|
16 years old or older (You can enter the school from approximately 7 days before turning 16 years old: This varies depending on the school and license you have) | – | 0.3 or more in one eye, 0.7 or more in both eyes | – |
| AT limited Regular Motorcycle license |
|
Same as above | – | 0.3 or more in one eye, 0.7 or more in both eyes | – |
| Heavy Motorcycle license |
|
18 years old or older (You can enter the school approximately 5 days before turning 18 years old: This varies depending on the school and license you have) | – | 0.3 or more in one eye, 0.7 or more in both eyes | – |
| AT limited Heavy Motorcycle license |
|
Same as above | – | 0.3 or more in one eye, 0.7 or more in both eyes | – |
| Semi-medium license |
|
18 years old or older (You can enter if you are 18 years old by the time of Driving Test: This varies depending on the school and license you have) | – | 0.5 or more in one eye, 0.8 or more in both eyes | Error within 2cm |
| Medium license |
|
Over 20 years old | A total of 2 years or more of driving experience with a regular license or large special license. | 0.5 or more in one eye, 0.8 or more in both eyes | Error within 2cm |
| large license |
|
21 years or older | A total of 3 years or more of driving experience with a regular license or large special license. | 0.5 or more in one eye, 0.8 or more in both eyes | Error within 2cm |
| Large special license |
|
18+ | – | 0.3 or more in one eye, 0.7 or more in both eyes | – |
| towing license | Towing regular cars, medium-sized cars, large cars, and large special cars with a total vehicle weight of 750 kg or more | 18+ | License for the vehicle to be towed (regular, medium, large, large special) | 0.5 or more in one eye, 0.8 or more in both eyes | Error within 2cm |
| Ordinary class 2 license | Ordinary vehicles for passenger purposes such as taxis (capacity 10 or less) | 21 years or older | A total of 3 years or more of driving experience with a regular car license or higher | 0.5 or more in one eye, 0.8 or more in both eyes | Error within 2cm |
| Medium-sized class 2 license | Medium-sized vehicles for passenger purposes such as microbuses and minibuses (passenger capacity of 11 to 29 people) | 21 years or older | A total of 3 years or more of driving experience with a regular car license or higher | 0.5 or more in one eye, 0.8 or more in both eyes | Error within 2cm |
| Large class 2 license | Large vehicles for passenger purposes such as route buses and sightseeing buses (passenger capacity of 30 or more people) | 21 years or older | A total of 3 years or more of driving experience with a regular car license or higher | 0.5 or more in one eye, 0.8 or more in both eyes | Error within 2cm |
Minors need parental consent
As listed in the table, you must be at least 18 years old to obtain a driver's Driver's License. However, even 17-year-olds can participate in the license training camp if they submit a written consent form from a parent or guardian. In fact, there are many cases in which high school students use their spring break to study for driver's license training camps.
As of April 1, 2022, the age of majority has been lowered from 20 to 18, so if you are 18 or older at the time of signing a contract, you no longer need parental consent.
What is deep vision?
Depth vision, listed as a condition in the table, is a numerical value of the ability to judge perspective and three-dimensional sensation when looking at objects. This is a mandatory inspection when obtaining a large-sized license, medium-sized license, semi-medium-sized license, towing license, or class 2 (regular, medium, or large) license.
If you can't get a proper sense of depth and distance when looking at things, it will be difficult to drive large trucks that often use mirrors to check what's behind and to the sides.
There are also licenses that are not specified as conditions, such as regular car and AT-only licenses.
Other conditions
In order to determine whether you can drive a car safely, various conditions are imposed on you to obtain a driver's license. In order to take a driver's license training camp at a driving school, it is important that you meet the conditions necessary to obtain a driver's license, so let's check that.
Color discrimination ability
Test to see if you can distinguish between the three colors red, blue, and yellow. This will not be done for those who already have a valid license or are in the process of renewing their license.
hearing
If you can hear the sound of a 90 decibel horn at a distance of 10 meters in both ears without using hearing aids, you can apply for a driver's license without any special conditions. The same applies if you have hearing loss but can hear with hearing aids.
A horn is a horn attached to a car. If you can't hear this sound, for example when you suddenly change lanes or the traffic light is green, you won't be able to hear other cars trying to alert you, so your safety cannot be guaranteed.
However, with the revision of the law in March 2017, even if you cannot hear the sound of the horn, if you use an auxiliary mirror called a rear view mirror or display a sign for people with hearing impairments, you can Now you can get your license. However, some driving schools may not accommodate people with hearing impairments. Please check with the driving school in advance.
Exercise capacity
This refers to the cognitive and operational abilities necessary for safe driving. For example, if you have a physical disability or cognitive impairment that interferes with your ability to drive, you will need to receive a safe driving consultation and contact your driving school before aiming to obtain a driver's license.
More detailed information will be explained later.
Japanese ability
This refers to the ability to perform everyday reading, writing, and conversation in Japanese. Although it is not a required ability to obtain a license, it is one of the abilities required by some driving schools. This is because many driving schools only accept lessons and exams in Japanese.
Also, some driving schools may conduct an academic ability test in advance to check whether you can understand the lesson content. If you are not good at Japanese and would like to participate in a license training camp, please refer to the next chapter, which will provide detailed explanations.
Have been determined to be eligible through safe driving consultation.
If a person with a physical disability or who is undergoing treatment for an illness aims to obtain a driver's license, he or she must undergo a qualification examination at the Safe Driving Consultation (formerly known as the Driving Aptitude Consultation) established by the Prefectural Public Safety Commission (Police). there is.
The details will be explained later, but simply put, it is a diagnosis to make sure that your current disability, illness, or treatment does not make it unsafe to drive. Since a diagnosis cannot be made at a driving school, a qualifying diagnosis must be taken in advance, and the results will be used to determine whether or not the child can attend a driving school.
No history of prosecution
If you have had your license revoked in the past, have committed an offense without a license, or have been arrested, you must apply in advance. This is because the conditions for admission differ depending on the driving school where you attend the license training camp.
The handling methods differ depending on the driving school, such as cases in which you cannot enter the school until the period of disqualification has ended, those who have been revoked cannot enter the school, and an interview is required in advance. If you apply with false information, you may be expelled from the school even if you are in the middle of the lesson. Accurate tax filing is important to avoid wasting time and money.
What if someone who is not good at Japanese wants to participate in a driver's license training camp?
Even if your native language is not Japanese, you can participate in license training camps at some driving schools. Here we will explain how to find a driving school for people who are not good at Japanese, points to check before applying, and required documents.
1. Find a driving school that teaches your native language or your favorite language
Depending on the driving school, textbooks and academic tests may be available in multiple languages, or staff and instructors may be able to speak multiple languages. Please contact the driving school of your desired license training camp directly.
When looking for a driving school, we recommend choosing from a designated driving school that offers the benefit of being exempt from the skill test of the driving license test. In addition to spending more time on written exams, you can receive detailed driving instruction from legally qualified instructors.
2.Confirm and apply to the driving school
Even at driving schools that offer language support in languages other than Japanese, the actual textbooks and instructors used in academic lessons may be available in Japanese.
On the other hand, some driving schools are more accommodating to foreign nationals, such as offering provisional license exams in English, and purchasing study materials in Chinese and English. Please check in advance with the driving school to see how far they can support your desired language.
3. Gather the necessary documents
Once you have decided where to enroll, prepare the necessary documents specified by the driving school. Examples include the following documents:
- Residence card (formerly: Alien registration certificate)
- Residence card with nationality listed (issued within 3 months)
- Identity verification documents (health insurance card, passport, etc.)
Please note that the required documents vary depending on the driving school. Please check in advance.
Things to check if you have a disability or illness and want to participate in a driver's license training camp
Under the driver's license system, there are additional conditions for obtaining a driver's license if you suffer from a "certain disease." The conditions include aptitude tests, so let's take a look at how to respond.
What is a certain disease?
The diseases that may be covered are:
- Schizophrenia (with symptoms of hallucinations)
- epilepsy
- Recurrent syncope
- arrhythmia
- Unrecognized hypoglycemia
- Sleep disorders with symptoms of severe sleepiness
- Soutsu
- stroke
- dementia
- alcohol addiction
- Physical disabilities (decreased muscle strength, paralysis, impaired hearing and vision)
In addition, illnesses that exhibit symptoms that may affect the cognitive functions necessary to drive a car safely may require special procedures to obtain a driver's license, or may prevent the driver from obtaining a license. there is.
Consult with the police safe driving consultation desk
If you think you may be eligible, or if your doctor has pointed out your driving concerns, please go to the driver's license examination center in your residential address to determine whether you can obtain a license.
This is because obtaining a license is not based on the name of the disability or illness, but rather whether the person is able to drive safely or not. For example, some people can drive without problems while wearing glasses, while others have difficulty driving even with glasses.
Call #8080, the direct line to the nationwide safe driving consultation desk, make an appointment for a face-to-face consultation, and discuss your symptoms. When consulting with a doctor, it is important to accurately tell them what problems you are having and what symptoms you are experiencing.
*Reference: Safe Driving Consultation Desk (formerly Safe Driving Consultation Desk)
There are three decisions regarding safe driving consultation.
After the interview at the driver's license examination center, the decision will be made in three ways:
unconditionally eligible
This decision is made when it is determined that the disability or illness does not affect the ability to drive a car. There are no additional requirements for obtaining a license, so apply for a license training camp and aim to obtain a license.
conditional eligibility
The decision is that drivers will be able to obtain a license with the condition that they wear special driving equipment to cover the effects of disability or illness, and with engine displacement restrictions. The results of the aptitude test obtained at this time must be submitted to the driving school.
If you have conditions for using a modified car, contact the driving school to see if they have a car that meets your conditions. If they don't have it, you'll have to order it yourself and bring it in. Depending on the conditional eligibility, participation in a license training camp may also result in obtaining a license while attending school.
In addition, some driving schools have support plans for obtaining licenses that are tailored to your disability or illness. Let's take advantage of it.
unsuitable
Unfortunately, under the current circumstances, it is not possible to participate in a driver's license training camp, and it is not possible to obtain a driver's license. However, this does not necessarily mean that you will not be able to obtain a license permanently. For example, if your current situation improves through rehabilitation or treatment, you may be able to take another aptitude test.
Applying for subsidies for driver's license acquisition and car modification costs
Individuals who meet the criteria may be eligible for subsidies from each local government to cover the costs of obtaining a driver's license and modifying their vehicle. The maximum amount you can receive, the consultation method, and application documents vary depending on the municipality, so be sure to check in advance.
What are the points to consider when choosing a driver's license training camp?
We have summarized the key points when participating in a license training camp with peace of mind and aiming to obtain a license. Since it's a license training camp, there are some points you should pay attention to, so let's take a look at them one by one.
Is it a designated driving school?
Driving schools where you can obtain a driver's license are divided into two types: designated driving schools and registered driving schools. The differences, advantages and disadvantages between the two are as follows:
| kinds | Features | merit | Demerit |
| Designated driving school | Driving schools that are recognized by the Public Safety Commission as meeting standards, and provisional licenses can be obtained within the driving schools. |
|
Expensive compared to registered driving school |
| Notified driving school | Driving schools approved by notification to the Public Safety Commission | High degree of freedom in curriculum - If you have good driving skills, you can get a license at a low price |
|
If you are acquiring a driver's license for the first time, we recommend that you attend a license training camp at a designated driving school (accredited school) where qualified instructors are assigned and you can receive sufficient training.
When obtaining Driver's License, you will take the test at the driving school, so even if you are unable to obtain Driver's License, you will receive appropriate guidance. You can rest assured about the cost as you will know the total cost up to graduation in advance.
Is it not an area where you cannot enter the school?
If you have a residence card in the prefecture, municipality, or neighborhood where the driving school is located, you may not be able to receive Driving Camp. Applicable areas are called prohibited areas, and each driving school has set their own settings, so please check in advance.
So why are there designated areas where license training camps are not available? This is because the license training camp system is aimed at people who live far away and cannot easily attend a driving school to obtain a driver's license in a short period of time while living in a lodging facility.
If we allow anyone to participate in driver's license training camps, it may become difficult for people who live far away to obtain a driver's license. When using a license training camp, please make sure that you are not in an area where entry is prohibited.
schedule
When using a license training camp, be sure to pay attention to whether the schedule allows you to manage your physical condition until you obtain your license.
One guideline for a driving school's license training camp is 14 days. Because students must take Driving Lessons (learning to actually drive a car) and academic training (learning using textbooks) for a set amount of time in a short period of time, even if they have free time, there are no days off. Most of the time there isn't.
In addition, the number of Driving Lessons that can be taken in one day is determined. The first stage of on-site training is a maximum of two hours per day, and the second stage of on-the-street training is a maximum of three hours per day. In other words, if you have too much free time, it will take longer to get your license.
Look at example driving school schedules, holidays, free time, and curfews, and create a schedule so that you can get your license within the specified period.
Fee
Driving school fees vary depending on when you enroll, whether or not there are meal and transportation expenses, and additional charges if you fail the exam. Some students may commute to school from their hotel or apartment using public transportation, so it is important to find out whether the total cost, including the necessary transportation expenses, fits into your budget.
In addition, if you fail an exam or need to take time off due to poor health, you may be delayed in academic or Driving Lessons and may need to stay overnight. Some driving schools charge additional lodging and meal costs if you extend your stay, while others come with a guarantee of passing and do not charge any additional fees until graduation, and the same driving school may offer both plans. Please check the warranty details of each driving school.
Discounts/Campaigns
You may be able to take advantage of campaigns and discounts such as student discounts, group discounts, and group discounts.
They often run discount campaigns for a limited time, and are generally cheaper during the off-season. In addition to seasonal campaigns, the content of campaigns differs depending on the driving school, such as campaigns for students and discounts if you have a referral. Check to see if there are any discounts or campaigns that apply to you.
hotel
Depending on your plan, you can choose the type of room you want, such as a single room or a shared room. You may also be able to choose where to stay, such as a hotel, condominium, or apartment. Prices and sizes vary, so be sure to check the accommodations and room details carefully.
Also, given that you will be living there for about two weeks, it is important to make sure that the environment is comfortable for you. For example, it's a good idea to compare the availability of Wi-Fi, indoor equipment, and security based on information provided by the driving school.
Meals
Although there are detailed differences between driving schools, the following three meal plans are common.
| meal plan | Content |
| 3 Meals Provided plan | You can eat three meals at the accommodation's cafeteria or restaurant. Sometimes it is in the form of a buffet. There are also cases where three bento meals are distributed. |
| No meal plan | There are plans that include only one meal, breakfast and dinner, and plans that do not include all three meals. |
| Self Cook | A plan where you manage your own meals in the kitchen at your accommodation or eating out. |
Some people may have food allergies. Some driving schools may not accommodate allergies. Please check with the driving school in advance.
Surrounding environment
Since the license training camp takes about 14 days, it is a good idea to check the surrounding environment of the driving school.
- Facilities where you can shop such as supermarkets and convenience stores
- drug store or pharmacy
- coin laundry
- Bank
- post office
- restaurant
Also, if you research nearby tourist spots and popular restaurants, you will have fun in your free time and will be motivated to survive the license training camp.
If you want to attend a driving school, first check the admission requirements.
At the license training camp, you can aim to obtain your license in a short period of time. However, each driving school has different entrance conditions, fees, accommodation facilities, meal plans, and surrounding environments, so it is important to check first.
If you are concerned about language, you should also look for a driving school that supports your native language or your preferred language. Each driving school has different policies, so please inquire in person to find out if you can enroll.
In addition, in order to drive safely, it is important to take appropriate measures for your disability, current illness, and treatment. Before entering the school, please contact the Driving Safe Driving Consultation Desk, ask for their judgment, and prepare to enter the school under appropriate conditions to make the driver's license training camp a fun and meaningful one.
