International Driver's License for Driving in Japan

Driving in Japan with an International Driving Permit (IDP)

To legally drive in Japan as a short-term visitor, you must hold an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. The IDP must follow the specific format outlined in the convention and be obtained from an authorized agency in your home country before arriving in Japan.

How to Obtain an IDP

• United Kingdom: Apply for an IDP at your local post office. Ensure it complies with the 1949 Geneva Convention format.
• United States: Obtain an IDP from the American Automobile Association (AAA). This must be done before traveling to Japan, as IDPs cannot be issued in Japan.

Ensure your IDP is valid and correctly formatted to avoid any issues when driving in Japan. For longer stays, consider converting your IDP to a Japanese driver’s license.