Foreign residents in Japan often face hurdles when converting their driver’s licenses, and until recently, Singaporean license holders had very limited options for getting official translations. We’re excited to announce that our company now offers fast, affordable, and government-recognized translations for Singapore driver’s licenses, making the conversion process easier than ever.
To celebrate the occasion, we made this specific guide on how to convert Singaporean driver’s licenses to a Japanese one. Here we will cover everything you need to know, starting with why a certified translation is required and how to get one, outline the step-by-step process, and show you how our service can help you save time, reduce costs, and avoid common mistakes.
Why You Need an Official Translation
When converting a foreign driver’s license in Japan (外免切替 / gaimen kirikae), the first mandatory requirement is an official Japanese translation of your license. Without it, you cannot proceed to the document screening, written test, or driving test at your local license center.
Previously, Singapore license holders often relied on JAF (Japan Automobile Federation), which could take 1–2 weeks to issue a translation. Now, we at Ziplus also offer official translations issued in 1-2 days, or within 2 hours with the express option. In other words, you can get your translation faster and start your conversion process sooner.
Step-by-Step Guide to Converting a Singapore License in Japan
1. Confirm Eligibility
Singapore is part of the countries recognized under Japan’s license conversion rules. This means you may be partially exempt from certain tests if you meet requirements such as:
- Having held your Singapore license for at least 3 months before coming to Japan.
- Providing proof of residency abroad (passport with entry/exit stamps).
2. Prepare Required Documents
At your prefectural driver’s license examination center, you will generally need:
- Your valid Singapore driver’s license.
- Our official Japanese translation of your license.
- Residence Card (在留カード).
- Passport.
- A recent photo (3 cm × 2.4 cm).
- Application form (available at the center).
3. Take the Aptitude and Written Test
Singapore license holders must take:
- Eye and physical aptitude test (quick check at the licensing center).
- Written test (Contains 50 questions, passing grade is 45).
You will also need to take the driving test on a closed course hosted by the license centers. This test is also notoriously difficult if you are unfamiliar with the specifics of Japanese driving methods. Thorough preparation is highly recommended.
4. Take the Driving Exam
After you pass the written test, you will have to schedule a driving test. The driving test can be quite difficult if you do not familiarize yourself with the Japanese traffic rules and procedures, such as how to conduct safety checks and in what order etc. Therefore, regardless of your driving experience, we highly recommend that you take at least a few license conversion driving lessons, as they not only give you pointers on the specifics you are evaluated on, but they are also conducted on training grounds that are essentially the same as the actual exam.
You can read more about tips for the driving exam here, or you can read on to learn about our Fast-Track Package, which contains 4-6 driving lessons in addition to comprehensive study materials for both the written and driving exams.
5. Receive Your Japanese License
Once you pass all required checks, you will receive your Japanese driver’s license on the same day at the examination center.
Why Choose Our Singapore License Translation Service
We know time matters. That’s why we focus on speed, affordability, and multilingual support:
- Fast Turnaround: Standard delivery within 1–2 business days; express same-day options available.
- Affordable Price: Just ¥3,850 (lowest in the industry).
- Multilingual Support: Our staff can assist in English, Japanese, and other languages to guide you through the gaimen kirikae process.
- Comprehensive Support: Beyond translations, we offer test preparation packages (Fast-Track Package) with textbooks, videos, and driving lessons tailored for the Japanese exams.
FAQ: Singapore License Conversion in Japan
Q: How long does the whole conversion process take?
A: If you prepare all documents and schedule your appointment early, many applicants finish within 2–4 weeks. Translation time is usually the biggest bottleneck, but our service cuts this down to as little as 1 day.
Q: Can I drive in Japan with my Singapore license and International Driving Permit (IDP)?
A: Yes, but only for 1 year after arrival. After that, you must convert your license to a Japanese one.
Q: Do I need to take the driving test?
A: As a general rule, yes you will need to take the driving test if your country does not have a reciprocal agreement with Japan.
Read More
If you want to read more about license conversion, such as test preparation tips and so on, check out our other articles here:
