Getting a driver’s license in Japan can be a complicated process especially when you factor in the costs. Whether you’re starting from scratch, attending a driving camp, taking regular lessons, or converting your foreign license (外免切替 / gaimen kirikae), the price tag can vary widely. In this post, we’ll break down how much it costs to get a Japanese driver’s license in 2025, so you can choose the best option for your needs and budget.
1. Driving Camp (合宿免許) Costs in Japan
Driving camps, known as 合宿免許 (gasshuku menkyo) are intensive, residential driving courses that help you get your license in as little as 10 days depending on the type of license. This is the cheapest and fastest method for those starting from zero and the average price is 100,000 yen cheaper than traditional driving schools.
Typical Driving Camp Prices
Driving camp costs can vary based on the season, location, and type of license (automatic vs. manual). Here’s a breakdown of the average cost in 2025:
Before we list the typical price ranges, keep in mind that many driving camps include accommodation, meals, transportation, and insurance in the total cost.
- Off-season (Jan, Feb, Apr, May, Oct–Dec): ¥180,000 – ¥240,000
- Peak season (March, July–Sept): ¥250,000 – ¥330,000
- Automatic transmission license: usually ¥10,000 – ¥20,000 cheaper than manual
- Additional fees: retest fees, extra nights, or missed classes may incur additional costs
What’s Included in the Driving Camp price
Driving camp prices often bundle multiple services into a single, convenient plan. Here’s what you typically get:
- Accommodation: Dorm, apartment or hotel-style lodging
- Meals: Options range from 3 meals per day to self catering.
- Transportation: In most cases you will be reimbursed for the cost of traveling to the school both before, during and after enrollment
- Lesson fees: Both classroom and in-car instruction
- Insurance: Basic insurance for accidents during training
These packages are ideal for people who want a quick, affordable way to get licensed in Japan, especially students, gap year travelers, or new residents. You can read more about driving camps here, or start searching for schools here!
2. Regular Driving School (通学免許) Costs
If you can’t commit to a residential driving camp, you might choose to attend a local driving school while working or studying. This option is more flexible, but also more expensive.
Average Costs for Driving Lessons
Prices vary based on the region and driving school, but in 2025, you can expect the following:
- Automatic license: ¥300,000 – ¥350,000
- Manual license: ¥310,000 – ¥370,000
- Evening/weekend lessons: may cost extra
- Additional fees: makeup lessons or retests cost ¥5,000 – ¥8,000 each
Pros and Cons of Regular Driving Schools
Regular schools offer flexibility but may take longer and cost more overall.
Pros:
- Flexible scheduling for busy people
- No need to travel or stay overnight
Cons:
- Higher overall cost
- Takes longer (1–3 months or more)
- May require advance reservations for each class
This is likely your only choice if your time is limited, but the higher price is mitigated somewhat by the fact that you pay for individual lessons so you can tailor your schedule to both time and your financial situation.
3. Foreign License Conversion (外免切替) Costs
If you already have a driver’s license from another country, you may be eligible for a foreign license conversion, known as 外免切替 (gaimen kirikae). This process is much cheaper than starting from scratch, but it still involves multiple steps and fees.
Breakdown of license conversion (外免切替）costs in 2025
Foreign license conversion involves document translation, application fees, and, in most cases, written and practical tests. If you’re unfamiliar with the system or want help preparing, you might also pay for a support service or prep course. The prices are dependent on the local license centers as they are responsible for pricing the procedures. Below, I will give an example based on the driving centers in Tokyo.
Here’s a breakdown of the expected costs:
- Document translation (Ziplus or JAF): ¥2,000 – ¥6,000
- Photos and admin fees: ￥1,000
- Written Test: ￥1,500
- Driving test: ￥2,000 -￥3,000
- Written test prep (optional): Free to ¥5,000
- Driving test lessons: average of ¥10,000
- Ziplus Fast-Track Package: ¥103,230 (Translation and test prep)
Why Choose a Fast-Track Package?
If you’re short on time or unsure about the Japanese licensing system, services like the Ziplus Fast-Track Package can save you stress and increase your chances of passing on the first try. You can also read our comprehensive article on license conversion here!
Benefits include:
- Professional translation of your license
- Custom test strategies specifically tailored towards the conversion tests
- Comprehensive help throughout the whole process
- Special tailored driving lessons in English
- Textbooks and videos made for conversion tests
4. Which Option Is Right for You?
To choose the best path, consider your budget, time, and driving experience. Here’s my quick recommendations:
- New to driving & short on time? → Choose a driving camp
- Busy schedule but need a license? → Go with regular driving school
- Already have a license from overseas? → Apply for gaimen kirikae
Final Thoughts: Save Time and Money with the Right Plan
Getting a license in Japan doesn’t have to break the bank, but understanding your options is key. Whether you go for a driving camp, regular school, or license conversion, knowing the costs in advance helps you plan better and avoid unexpected fees.
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