How to Convert Your Driver’s License in the Kansai Region (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe & More)

Converting a foreign driver’s license in Japan, known as 外免切替 (gaimen kirikae), is a vital step. Whether you’re here long-term for work, family, or study, having a Japanese license opens up greater freedom. It will allow you to explore Japan off the beaten path, open job-opportunities and if you live in the countryside, it’s almost a bare-necessity.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to convert your driver’s license in Kansai, covering general requirements, the step-by-step process, and city-specific tips for Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, and more.

Who Can Convert Their License in Japan?

Before you begin, it’s important to confirm whether you’re eligible for license conversion in Japan. Generally, you can apply if you hold a valid driver’s license from another country and can prove that you lived in that country for at least three months after your license was issued. This is usually confirmed through passport stamps or entry/exit records.

In addition, you must have a valid visa or residence status in Japan, such as a work visa, student visa, or spousal/resident status. Tourists and short-term visitors are not eligible.

Some countries are exempt from both the written and driving tests during conversion. These include the UK, France, Germany, South Korea, and a few others. If your license was issued in one of these countries, the process is much smoother. However, if you’re from a country like India, the Philippines, or most states in the US, you’ll likely need to take a written test and a practical driving test.

Here is the full list of countries that are exempt from the driving test:

The following US states are also exempt:

• Hawaii
• Maryland
• Virginia
• Washington
• Ohio
• Oregon
• Colorado

Step-by-Step: How to Convert Your Driver’s License in Kansai

1. Get a Japanese Translation of Your License

The first step is to obtain an official Japanese translation of your foreign license. This translation must be done by us at Ziplus, the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) or other certified translation service approved by the authorities. Note that personal or self-made translations will not be accepted.

Which to opt for will generally depend on which country you got your driver’s license from. If you fall within one of the 12 countries we support at Ziplus, you will get the fastest and cheapest official translation in the industry, with native speakers to help you through the process. However, if you are outside of our supported countries, JAF is your best bet. 

Translations usually cost between ¥3,850-¥6,000, and processing time ranges from 1–10 days depending on where and how you apply. Once you have placed your order, you can typically get your translation either by mail or by printing at convenience stores.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

Once your translation is ready, gather all the necessary documents for your application. These are required whether or not your country is exempt from testing. Most of them must be original documents, though photocopies may also be needed for submission.

You’ll need:

• Your foreign driver’s license
  
• The official Japanese translation of your license
  
• Your passport, showing stamps to verify your time abroad
  
• Your residence card (在留カード), confirming your legal status in Japan
  
• A copy of your 住民票 (Juminhyo), or certificate of residence, available from your local city office (make sure it includes your nationality and residence status)
  
• One passport-style photograph (3 cm x 2.4 cm, no hats, plain background)
  
• The application form, which is filled out on-site at the driving center
  

It’s a good idea to make copies of your documents in advance to save time. Any missing items could delay your application or require you to reschedule.

3. Make an Appointment at Your Local License Center

In most cases, you must book an appointment in advance to submit your documents and take the required tests. Each prefecture’s system is slightly different, but the common rule is that appointments are made by phone or online and in Japanese.

If you don’t speak Japanese confidently, consider asking a fluent friend or coworker to call on your behalf. Some cities also offer phone-based interpretation services or multilingual help desks, although these may be limited.

A few smaller license centers may accept walk-ins for the initial document review, but this varies by location. Always check with your local center first, especially if you’re planning to travel from outside the city.

4. Attend Your Appointment

Once your appointment is booked, you’ll visit the license center to start the conversion process. The day usually starts with a document screening, where staff will check everything for completeness and accuracy. This is followed by a brief interview to verify your driving history and experience in your home country.

Next, you’ll take a vision test, which is required for everyone regardless of nationality or testing exemption status.

If you’re from a country not exempt from testing, you’ll also need to complete:

• A written test: A basic knowledge test on Japanese traffic laws which consists of 10 multiple-choice questions, available in English and other languages (will increase to 50 questions soon).
  
• A practical driving test: Conducted on a closed course within the license center. This is often the most challenging part, as Japanese driving test standards are strict and precise.
  

The written and practical tests will either be held on the same day or separately depending on the license center. You may also have to take the written test on the same day as the document screening. In cases where the tests are held on different days, expect there to be a long wait for an appointment, stretching up to several months. It’s also common to fail the practical test on the first try, even for experienced drivers. Some people require 3–4 attempts or more before passing. Therefore, make sure to prepare thoroughly to avoid repeating the long wait-times.

We offer the best test preparation package in the industry.

 Where to Convert Your Driver’s License in Kansai (City-by-City)

Osaka

In Osaka Prefecture, foreign license conversions are handled at the Kadoma Driver’s License Center, located in the northeastern part of the city. It’s a large and busy facility, so expect longer wait times.

Appointments must be made by phone and the window to make appointments through phones is limited to Fridays somewhere between 14 and 17, and may change depending on the actual day. Additionally, applicants who are not exempt from the written and driving tests are limited even further. You can check the booking windows here. The walk-ins are also limited and  staff typically do not speak English, so we highly recommend going with someone who can help translate. The center can be accessed from Dainichi Station on the Tanimachi subway line, followed by a short walk.

Kyoto

In Kyoto Prefecture, you’ll go to the Fushimi-ku Driver’s License Center, located near Takeda Station. The process is similar to Osaka, though the center is less crowded, making it a good alternative for eligible residents.

English-language support is limited, so again, it’s best to bring a Japanese-speaking companion. Booking is usually required, and walk-ins may not be accepted depending on the day and your situation.

If you’re living in Kyoto and your country is not exempt, expect to take the practical test at this location or another affiliated center.

Hyogo (Kobe)

For those living in Kobe or the wider Hyogo Prefecture, the main location is the Nada-ku Driver’s License Center. This center is accessible from Rokkomichi or Oji-koen stations and handles most foreign license applications.

Some staff members at the Kobe center have limited English ability, but don’t count on full interpretation services. Booking your appointment in advance is essential. If you’re required to take a driving test, you may be asked to go to a separate test site within Hyogo, depending on your location and schedule.

Other Kansai Areas

Nara

Foreign license conversions in Nara are usually handled at the Kashihara Driver’s License Center. Depending on your situation, you might be referred to a larger center like Osaka for the practical test, if your country is not exempt.

Shiga

In Shiga, applications are processed at the Otsu License Center. Be prepared to handle all communication in Japanese, and confirm whether your practical test (if needed) will be conducted there or in a neighboring prefecture.

Wakayama

Wakayama’s main license center in Wakayama City accepts foreign license applications. It’s less busy compared to Osaka or Kobe, but still follows similar requirements. Calling ahead to confirm procedures is highly recommended.

Cost Breakdown

How Long Does It Take?

For those from exempt countries, the entire process can be completed in as little as  a few weeks, assuming all documents are in order and appointments are available.

However, if your application involves a practical driving test, the process could take  several  months or longer, especially if you need to re-book test dates after failing.

Some prefectures offer fewer test slots than others, so be sure to plan ahead if you’re on a time-sensitive schedule.

Tips for Success When you Convert Your Driver’s License In Kansai

Converting your license in Japan isn’t necessarily difficult, but it does require preparation and patience. The biggest challenges are usually language barriers and passing the practical driving test.

To make things smoother:

• Always bring a Japanese-speaking friend or hire an interpreter, especially for phone calls and interviews.
  
• If you need to take the driving test, consider booking a lesson with a local driving school to practice the Japanese driving style and course layout, or make use of our Fast-Track Package.
  
• Avoid Mondays or post-holiday periods when centers are busiest.
  

Bring extra copies of everything, including ID and photos, to avoid re-booking for missing documents.

Conclusion

If you’re living in the Kansai region and want to drive legally in Japan, converting your foreign license is the way to go. While the process can seem bureaucratic, following the steps carefully and preparing in advance will help you avoid unnecessary delays. Whether you’re in Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, or beyond, this guide should give you the foundation to get started.

We’ll also be publishing detailed, city-specific guides for the bigger cities soon, so stay tuned!

FAQ

Can I convert my license even if I don’t speak Japanese?
Yes, but you’ll need help with booking and communication. Bring a friend or hire a translator.

Can I apply in a different prefecture from where I live?
No. You must apply in the prefecture where you’re registered as a resident, according to your Juminhyo.

How hard is the practical test?
It’s strict and precise. Many experienced drivers fail on the first attempt. Studying and taking a lesson on a Japanese driving course can significantly help. You can also get both the official translation and the exam practice in one place here.