Author Archives: Ziplus Global Team

Gaimen Kirikae Guide for Aichi: How to Convert Your Foreign Driver’s License

So you somehow found yourself living in the Aichi prefecture, and now you are potentially wondering how exactly to go about converting your driver’s license. Fear not, I am here to help you. Converting a foreign driver’s license into a Japanese license, known as gaimen kirikae (外免切替), is an important step for foreign residents in

Practice Questions for the October 2025 Gaimen Kirikae Written Exam

Converting your foreign driver’s license into a Japanese license is about to become more challenging. Starting October 2025, the written exam for gaimen kirikae (外免切替) will expand from 10 simple true/false questions into a 50-question test. The passing score will also increase from 70% to 90%, meaning you’ll need to answer at least 45 questions

How to Convert Your Singapore Driver’s License in Japan (Now with Official Translation Service!)

Foreign residents in Japan often face hurdles when converting their driver’s licenses, and until recently, Singaporean license holders had very limited options for getting official translations. We’re excited to announce that our company now offers fast, affordable, and government-recognized translations for Singapore driver’s licenses, making the conversion process easier than ever. To celebrate the occasion,

Why Choose Ziplus for Gaimen Kirikae in Japan? (License Conversion)

Since you’ve come to Japan, you have probably heard about driver’s license conversion (外免切替/gaimen kirikae) by now. The procedure has exploded in popularity lately and while it is potentially the fastest and easiest method of acquiring a Japanese driver’s license, the procedures still present some significant challenges. Between paperwork, language barriers, and the notoriously low

How to Convert Your Foreign Driver’s License in Osaka (Gaimen Kirikae) 2025

If you’re a resident of Osaka and hold a valid foreign driver’s license, you may be eligible to convert it to a Japanese license through the 外免切替 (Gaimen Kirikae) process. We have made a comprehensive guide which will walk you through the requirements, procedures, and tips to navigate the process specific to Osaka. Eligibility Criteria

How to Convert Your Driver’s License in Tokyo (Gaimen Kirikae Guide)

If you are a foreign resident in Tokyo and want to drive legally, you may need to complete the gaimen kirikae (外免切替) process, converting your foreign driver’s license into a Japanese one. Unlike applying for a new license, gaimen kirikae allows you to keep your existing license and convert it, provided you meet certain requirements.

October 2025 Update: Guide to Passing the Foreign License Conversion Written Test in Japan

If you obtained your driver’s license abroad and want to convert it to a Japanese license, you may be wondering what tests you’ll face. You might have heard about the Foreign License Conversion process (外免切替, gaimen kirikae), but not know exactly what it involves. The process includes two tests: the Written Test and the Driving

Rideshare In Japan: Work Part-Time as a Driver

If you’ve ever considered earning extra income on your own schedule, Japan’s new rideshare programs might be exactly what you’re looking for. In April 2024, Nihon Kotsu, one of Japan’s most trusted taxi operators—launched a licensed rideshare program that allows vetted individuals to drive passengers using their own vehicles. But how does this system work?

How to Get a Motorcycle License in Japan: License Conversion, Driving Camps & More

Introduction There’s something magical about exploring Japan on two wheels. Whether you’re cruising through the winding mountain roads of Hakone, zipping past rice fields in the countryside, or living out your Great Teacher Onizuka fantasies along the beaches of shonan, riding a motorcycle here offers an unmatched sense of freedom. It’s also an economical choice,