Japan

🚗 Do tourists need a license to drive a car in Japan?

Yes, tourists need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive a car in Japan. Here is a list of requirements and information regarding driving in Japan:

  • Tourists must have a valid driving license issued in their home country
  • The driving license must be accompanied by an authorized Japanese translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP)
  • An IDP is essentially a translation of your driving license and can be obtained in your home country before traveling to Japan
  • The IDP must be carried along with your original driving license while driving in Japan
  • Driving is done on the left side of the road in Japan
  • Safety regulations and traffic rules must be strictly followed
  • Some rental car companies may have additional requirements or age restrictions
It is always recommended to check with the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country to get the most up-to-date information regarding driving requirements for tourists in Japan.

🚓 Driver rules in Japan

Sure, here is a list of driver rules in Japan:

  • Speed limitations: The speed limits in Japan are generally as follows:
    • Urban areas: 40-50 km/h (25-31 mph)
    • Rural areas: 60-80 km/h (37-50 mph)
    • Expressways: 80-100 km/h (50-62 mph)
  • Mobile phone use: Using a mobile phone while driving is strictly prohibited in Japan. Drivers are only allowed to use hands-free devices.
  • Drunk driving: The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Japan is 0.03%. However, it is advisable to avoid any alcohol consumption before driving.
  • Insurance: It is mandatory to have car insurance in Japan to cover third-party liability.
  • Age limitations: To obtain a regular driving license, the minimum age for driving a car in Japan is 18 years old. However, there are specific license categories available for motorcycles and small cars that can be obtained at a younger age.