Motorcycle License Conversion vs. Car License Conversion in Japan: Key Differences and Rule Changes

License conversion (外免切替) has undoubtedly become a big topic this year. Whether it’s news outlets, corporate blogs like this one or even posts on Reddit, there is no shortage of questions and information on this topic. As far as I can tell, the vast majority tends to be concerning car licenses, but surely motorcycle riders have their own questions: Can motorcycle licenses be converted the same way? And did the recent rule changes affect motorcycle conversions as well?

This guide explains the main differences between motorcycle and car license conversions, what steps are required for both, and how recent changes might influence applicants.

1. Motorcycle Licenses Can Be Converted in Japan

In Japan, the following motorcycle licenses are recognized:

• 普通自動二輪 (up to 400cc)
• 大型二輪 (over 400cc)

Japan will convert these categories as long as your foreign license clearly shows the correct classification. The overall process is similar to car conversion, but there are important differences explained below.

2. What Car and Motorcycle Conversions Have in Common

Before looking at the differences, it’s helpful to understand what both conversion processes require. The steps below apply equally to car and motorcycle applicants.

Proof of 3 months residency

You must show you lived in the country where your license was issued for at least three months. Examples include passport stamps, residence cards, or school/work records.

Japanese translation

Every foreign license needs an official translation. The fastest and cheapest option is through us here. However, if you do not have a license from any of the countries we support, I recommend you use JAF.

Visit to the licensing center

During your appointment, you will go through document checks, an interview about driving experience, identity verification, a simple written test, and an eye test.

Country-based exemptions

Some countries, such as France, Germany, and the U.K., are exempt from the skills test for both cars and motorcycles. Others, including the U.S., Canada, the Philippines, and Vietnam, usually require a practical test regardless of vehicle type.

3. Key Differences: Motorcycle vs. Car Conversion

Once you start the conversion process, several differences between car and motorcycle applications become clear. These differences often make motorcycle conversion more challenging.

Motorcycle conversions often require a skills test

Even when car applicants are exempt, motorcycle applicants from the same country may still need to take the practical test. Japan places high importance on slow-speed control and balance when riding.

The motorcycle test is more technical

During the test, riders may need to complete tasks such as the balance beam, slalom, crank turn, figure-8, S-curve, sudden braking, and detailed safety checks. These elements require precision and are where many applicants lose points.

Motorcycle categories must match exactly

Japan matches the exact engine capacity listed on your foreign license.
For example, a license valid only up to 150cc will not convert to 普通二輪 or 大型二輪. Car licenses rarely have this type of limitation.

Riders must bring their own gear

Motorcycle applicants must wear a helmet, gloves, long sleeves, long pants, and riding shoes or boots during testing. This requirement does not apply to car conversion.

4. Did the Recent Rule Changes Affect Motorcycle Conversions?

Recent updates to driving test evaluation mostly affected car conversions and general test scoring. The core steps for motorcycle conversions did not change.

However, there has been one indirect effect. Licensing centers are now evaluating all driving tests more strictly. Motorcycle applicants may notice closer attention to posture, mirror and shoulder checks, and other safety habits. This means the process is the same, but examiners may be less lenient.

5. Should You Take Lessons Before the Conversion Test?

Your approach depends on whether your country is exempt.

• If your country is exempt: The conversion is usually fast, and practice lessons are not necessary.
• If your country is not exempt: A few practice lessons can significantly increase your chances of passing, especially because the motorcycle test is more technical than the car test.

6. Summary: Motorcycle vs. Car Conversion in Japan