Check the Country List
Verify your license-issuing country appears in the JAF translation eligibility guidance before starting paperwork.
JAF License Translation Guide
If your country is translation-eligible, you can drive in Japan with your original license + official JAF translation + passport — all in physical hardcopy.
This path is common for Taiwan, Germany, Switzerland, France, Belgium, and Monaco licenses. Unofficial translations, screenshots, or edited files are not accepted.
Missing translation document = no departure
Official JAF Translation
For eligible license holders from Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco, and Taiwan
Bring your original driver's license, your official Japanese translation document (issued through JAF or an authorized consulate/embassy route), and your passport.
Driver's License
+
Official Translation Document
+
Passport
= Valid to drive in Japan
Eligibility Checklist
This route applies to eligible license holders from Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco, and Taiwan.
Bring your original driver's license.
Bring your official Japanese translation document (consulate/embassy or JAF-issued).
Bring your original passport.
Only original physical documents are accepted. Fake, invalid, photocopied, or digital-only documents are not valid.
Read more here.Please visit the official website of Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) for more information.
Visit official JAF guidanceImportant Legal Notice
Failure to submit the required documents for driving in Japan will result in the cancellation of your tour. We prioritize following the law and ensuring your safety. Driving without a valid license is against the law and could lead to serious consequences, including potential legal actions. To avoid complications and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, we kindly ask for your full cooperation. We are here to help with any questions you may have.
日本で運転するための必要書類をご提出いただけない場合、残念ながらツアーを中止させていただくことになります。法律を遵守し、お客様の安全を最優先に考えています。無免許運転は法律違反であり、法的措置が取られる可能性があります。スムーズで楽しい体験をしていただくために、何卒ご協力をお願い申し上げます。ご不明点がありましたら、お気軽にお問い合わせください！
How to Confirm You Are Eligible
Prepare Your Original License
Your domestic license must be valid, unexpired, and physically available on the day of check-in.
Bring the Official Translation
The JAF translation document must be official and presented in hardcopy alongside your passport.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
Translation document is not from an official JAF process
Driver brings translation but forgets original domestic license
Driver brings a photocopy instead of physical original documents
Names do not match exactly across passport and license
Domestic license has expired or been renewed without updating translation
Need a Different Route?
If your country is not translation-eligible, you may need the 1949 IDP route or another legal option. Use the questionnaire to confirm.
