US Driver’s License to Japanese: License Conversion Process Explained (2025)

I’m guessing you found this article after searching for how to convert your US driver’s license into a Japanese one, only to run into a wall of confusing bureaucracy, information spread out over a myriad of sources and mixed messages on how to get started. Information about how to convert an American driver’s license in Japan can be tricky to find or difficult to understand. But don’t worry, this guide will walk you through the entire gaimen kirikae (外免切替) process in simple terms, including requirements, documents, costs, and tips specifically for US driving license holders.

What Is Gaimen Kirikae (driver’s license conversion)?

外免切替, or “gaimen kirikae,” is the process of converting a foreign driver’s license to a Japanese one without having to go through a full driving school course. It’s available to U.S. citizens and other foreigners who meet certain conditions. This process allows you to skip most of the training required for new drivers. The process will be time-consuming, since there are long waiting times at each step, but the costs will be significantly cheaper than all the other options. That said, if you want to explore other options in Japan, read our comprehensive guide here.

Who Can Convert Their U.S. License?

You are eligible for license conversion in Japan if:

• You hold a valid U.S. driver’s license.
  
• You can prove you lived in the U.S. for at least 3 months after your license was issued.
  
• Your U.S. license is still valid.
  
• You have a valid residence status in Japan (e.g. work visa, spouse visa, student visa).
  

If you meet the above conditions, you are clear to proceed and start gathering documents. 

What Documents Do You Need?

There are a handful of documents you will need to submit at your local license center. Make sure you have absolutely all the necessary documents before applying. Missing just one item can delay your application.

You’ll need:

• Your U.S. driver’s license (original)
  
• Official Japanese translation of your license (get it here)
  
• Residence card (在留カード)
  
• Passport
  
• 証明写真 (ID photo — 3cm x 2.4cm)
  
• Jūminhyō (住民票) with your nationality and visa status
  
• Application fee (~¥4,000–¥6,000)
  

About the official translation of your license: There are two main ways to procure an official translation of your license. The first is through us at Ziplus. The second is through the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF). Translation costs between ¥3,850-￥6,000 and can take 1-14 days depending on the service chosen. 

Below is a quick overview of the pros and cons of each service:

Step-by-Step: US driver’s license conversion in Japan

Here’s a simplified version of the entire process so you can plan ahead and reduce surprises:

Step 1: Get Your License Translated and Gather Necessary Documents

Start the process by gathering the necessary documents and applying for the official translation.

• Apply through Ziplus
  
• Takes 1–14 days depending on method
  
• Will cost 3,850￥~
  

Step 2: Document Screening and Eyesight-Test

Once you have the translation, you must apply for a document screening at your local license center. The waiting time is approximately 3 months so make sure you have all the documents in order, otherwise you risk extending the wait time by another 3 months.

You will also be taking a physical aptitude test during the document screening. This test consists of a vision and hearing test, in addition to a couple of interview questions. It usually takes no longer than 15 minutes.

Step 3: Written Test (If Required)

Once the document screening is passed, you can book a written test. The written test for license conversion is significantly easier than the full test you need if you take get a license from scratch. The written test consists of the following:

• The written test consists of 50 true/false questions and can be taken in English
  
• You need to answer 45/50 correct to pass

The Written test will most often be held on the same day as your document screening, so make sure to prepare accordingly. The questions themselves are not overly complicated or necessarily all that different from what you expect. However, the high passing score means that you should familiarize yourself with Japanese traffic rules.

Step 4: Practical Driving Test (If Required)

Here is where the real fun really begins. The driving test is notoriously difficult and the passing rate for foreigners is currently below 20%. The main reasons for this are first of all a lack of knowledge about Japanese traffic rules and driving customs. Due to the very specific criteria from which the examiners evaluate the students, it is very difficult to pass while only relying on your driving experience from your country. The driving test is conducted on a closed-course, featuring several different obstacles, such as S curves and a crank-course. The total distance traveled will be about 1 mile.

There is approximately another 3 months of waiting time for a driving test, which is why it is even more crucial to prepare sufficiently, otherwise you risk having to wait another 2-3 months for a new appointment.

Step 6: Receive Your Japanese License!

If you passed the driving test, then congratulations! You now only have a short wait left and you will be legally hitting the road. 

It is important to note that the amount of times you fail the written or driving tests don’t really matter, but you will have to pass the driving test within a certain amount of time after passing the document screening. Fail to do so and you will need to restart the entire process.

How Much Does License Conversion Cost?

Costs can vary slightly by prefecture, but here’s a general breakdown for the Tokyo area:

If you need to retake the driving test, there may be additional costs for re-booking.

Tips to Pass the Driving Test in Japan

As mentioned above, the Japanese driving test for license conversion has earned itself a reputation for being incredibly difficult to pass, even with extensive driving experience. The main reason for this is how it is evaluated. The exam is based on a point system where the test-taker starts with 100 points and gets deducted for every mistake they make. The amount of points deducted will depend on the severity. These can range from as little as 1 point to immediate failure. The amount of points deducted may also increase on repeated mistakes. Hence, one of the crucial aspects to passing the driving exam on the first attempt is to be familiar with the driving customs in Japan and the specifics of what they evaluate you on.

Here are a few tips that can help:

• Do a full head turn when checking mirrors
  
• Use your blinker 30m in advance
  
• Always do a full stop, even at yield signs
  
• Keep your hands at 10 and 2 on the steering wheel
  
• Practice driving on the left side of the road (big adjustment for Americans)
  

Consider This: Services like our Fast-Track Package offer tailored prep materials and driving lessons to help you pass the written and driving tests on the first try and are the only comprehensive service package of its kind in Japan. Considering the waiting times between each attempt at the driving test will run you 3 or more months each time, it is highly worth it to be as prepared as possible!

Final Thoughts

Converting your U.S. driver’s license to a Japanese license doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right preparation and support, you can go from confused to confident in just a few steps. You cannot escape Japan’s bureaucratic processes completely, but you can make it easier. Save time, avoid stress, and drive legally in Japan the smart way.