Rule Changes For Gaimen Kirikae (License Conversion) From October 2025

If you’re planning to convert your overseas driver’s license to a Japanese license (gaimen kirikae), important rule changes are coming this October. Japan will be tightening the rules to ensure all foreign drivers meet the same safety and knowledge standards as Japanese drivers.

These new rules affect both who can apply and how the tests are conducted, especially the written and driving exams. Below I will detail all rule changes for gaimen kirikae.

Residency Requirement: No More Tourist Applications

Until now, even some short-term visitors have been able to apply for license conversion in Japan. That will no longer be the case. Starting from October 1st, 2025, all applicants will be required to submit a resident certificate (住民票の写し) to prove legal residence in Japan.

This means:

• Tourists and short-term visitors (under 3 months) will no longer be eligible.
  
• The use of hotel addresses or temporary accommodations will not be accepted.
  

This move is intended to prevent misuse of the system and to align Japan with international standards, where residency is required for license issuance.

The Written Test Will Become More Difficult

This is perhaps the biggest, most significant rule change for gaimen kirikae. The current written test, which consists of 10 simple illustrated questions, will be completely overhauled. Under the new system:

• The number of questions will increase from 10 to 50.
  
• The passing requirement will rise from 70% to 90% — meaning applicants must get at least 45 correct.
  
• The test will no longer include illustrations and will instead focus on realistic driving scenarios and Japanese traffic laws.
  

These changes bring the test in line with the version used for first-time drivers in Japan.

Driving Test Scoring Will Be Stricter

For applicants required to take a driving skills test, evaluation standards are also being tightened. The new guidelines will place more emphasis on key behaviors expected in Japan, such as:

• Coming to a complete stop at train crossings and crosswalks
  
• Proper use of turn signals
  
• Correct execution of right and left turns
  
• Full understanding of right-of-way rules
  

In addition to scoring changes, the practical test will follow a nationally standardized format, reducing inconsistencies between licensing centers.

Why the Changes?

These updates were proposed in response to an increase in traffic accidents involving foreign drivers who had converted their licenses without fully understanding Japan’s driving rules. The reforms are also part of Japan’s 2025 Basic Economic and Fiscal Policy Plan, which called for stricter procedures around foreign license conversion.

What You Should Do Now

If you plan to convert your license, it’s best to act before October 2025, while the current rules still apply, although reserving a slot at the license center before October can be quite difficult, depending on where you live. You can also read our more in-depth guide on gaimen kirikae here.

Here’s how to prepare:

• Make sure you have (or can get) a 住民票 (resident certificate)
  
• Start studying for the new written test format
  
• Prepare for the stricter driving test, if required
  
• Use a trusted support service to avoid delays or mistakes
  

Ziplus Can Help

At Ziplus, we specialize in helping foreigners navigate the gaimen kirikae process smoothly and successfully. We provide:

• Official license translations approved by Japan’s Public Safety Commission
  
• Gaimen kirikae written and driving test preparation package with driving lessons and study materials
  
• Multilingual customer service in English, Chinese, and Vietnamese