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 Test. This guide will focus on the Written Test. If you read this to the end, you’ll be equipped with everything you need to aim for a first-time pass.
Why the License Conversion Written Test Will Become More Difficult from October 2025
Until now, the license conversion written test in Japan was a relatively simple test of ten true-or-false questions about basic Japanese traffic laws. Seven correct answers (70%) was enough to pass, and because many questions were illustration-based, the pass rate was over 90%.
From October 2025, the format will become significantly harder.
1. Greatly Expanded Test Scope
The new format will be on par with Japan’s main driver’s license theory exam. The scope will expand to cover 22 topics, including traffic rules, safe driving practices, emergency procedures, vehicle maintenance, and highway driving.
2. Stricter Passing Requirements
The number of questions will increase from 10 to 50, and the passing score will rise from 70% to 90%. You will only be able to get five questions wrong.
3. Changes in Question Format
Except for traffic sign questions, most illustration-based items will be removed. This means you will need to understand written descriptions in Japanese (or your selected test language) and answer based on comprehension, not visual cues.
Summary of the Difficulty Increase
From October 2025, you will need to study a much larger range of material, achieve a higher score, and handle a text-heavy format with fewer visual hints. The test will require preparation similar to that of a Japanese license applicant. Without thorough study, passing will be far more difficult than before.
Preparing for the New Test: The Fast-Track Package
To help foreign drivers adapt to these changes, Ziplus has developed the Foreign License Conversion Fast-Track Package. This all-in-one program supports you from the translation of your license to full preparation for both the written and driving tests.
The package includes official translation issuance, knowledge check preparation using a learning app with 200 practice questions, driving lessons, mock exams, review sessions, and last-minute tips. It also covers traffic signs and road markings with explanations in multiple languages, ensuring you can drive safely after obtaining your license.
Example Questions from the Upcoming Written Test
The questions will be in true/false format:
- The driver has no obligation to ask passengers to wear seat belts.
- A police officer raising both arms vertically means that drivers traveling parallel to the officer must stop, as if facing a red traffic light.
- Where this sign is posted, only regular passenger vehicles may drive within a tramway track area.
- When leaving a gas station, the driver followed a guide’s signal, slowed down, and crossed the sidewalk.
- A moped must perform a two-step right turn only at intersections with the designated sign.
- When passing a school or kindergarten bus while children are boarding or getting off, the driver must stop behind the bus and ensure safety before proceeding.
- If a pedestrian on a crosswalk stops after noticing your car, it is fine to drive through.
- The proper time to signal a right turn is three seconds before beginning the turn.
- A small amount of alcohol does not significantly affect driving ability and is not considered drunk driving.
- Even if the right side of your parked vehicle leaves less than 3.5 meters of space on the road, it is acceptable to park if traffic is light.
How to Take the Written Test
The foreign license conversion process generally follows this order:
Document screening (and eye test) → Written Test → Driving Test
In most prefectures, you must first reserve and pass the document screening at the license center before you can take the written test. Check with your local license center for their reservation process.
Language Support
If you are not confident in Japanese, the Written Test can be taken in multiple languages. Availability varies by prefecture, so confirm before applying. For example, Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, Chiba, Aichi, Osaka, and Fukuoka offer tests in Arabic, English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, Portuguese, Tagalog, Thai, Vietnamese, Russian, Hindi, Nepali, and other languages.
Countries Exempt from the Tests
If you have a license from certain countries or regions, such as the UK, Australia, Canada, France, Taiwan, and specific US states (including Ohio, Oregon, Colorado, Virginia, Hawaii, Maryland, Washington, and Indiana) — you may be exempt from the Written and Driving Tests. The full list is available on the National Police Agency website.
Final Notes
The Driving Test is not impossible, but from October 2025 it will require more study and focus. Reviewing practice questions in advance will greatly increase your chances of passing. If you plan to take the test in a language other than Japanese, confirm your options early.
Once you pass the written test, the only step left is the driving test. For practical driving tips, we will have a driving exam guide up soon!
Good luck sa ating mga TAKERS!!!
More powers Ziplus and thank you always.
Thank you!