Driving License Conversion in Japan: A Comprehensive Guide for Vietnamese

After five years of navigating Japan on a beat-up scooter, a friend finally decided to upgrade to a car. Proudly showing off his shiny new Honda CRV, he was met with unexpected laughter. He’d forgotten about his driver’s license! A Vietnamese license isn’t valid in Japan; to drive a car, he needed a Japanese one. His grand plans of road tripping across Japan were suddenly put on hold.

My friend’s situation is a common concern for many Vietnamese living and working in Japan. So, what’s the procedure and cost of converting a driver’s license in Japan? This article provides detailed and helpful information.

Driver's License Conversion Process in Japan

Converting Your Driver’s License in Japan – What You Need to Know

Requirements for Conversion

To convert your driver’s license in Japan, you must meet the following requirements:

• Possess a valid visa with a residency period of at least three months in Japan.
• Hold a valid Vietnamese driver’s license with a certified Japanese translation from a competent authority.
• Have resided in Vietnam for at least three months after obtaining your driver’s license.
• Pass both written and practical driving tests in Japan.

Required Documents

• Driver’s license conversion application form.
• Original and photocopy of your passport.
• Residence card (Zairyu Card).
• Original Vietnamese driver’s license and its certified Japanese translation.
• Proof of residency in Vietnam (if required).
• Passport-sized photos meeting the specified requirements.

Conversion Process

1. Submit your application to the Land Transportation Office in your area of residence.
2. Take the written test (in Japanese).
3. Participate in a driving instruction course (if necessary).
4. Take the practical driving test.
5. Receive your new driver’s license (if you pass the tests).

Cost of Driver’s License Conversion in Japan

The cost of converting a driver’s license in Japan ranges from 50,000 yen to 80,000 yen (approximately $350 – $560 USD), depending on individual circumstances. Fees include:

• Application fee: around 3,000 yen.
• Translation and notarization fees: approximately 10,000 yen.
• Written test fee: around 5,000 yen.
• Practical driving lesson and test fees: approximately 30,000 – 60,000 yen.

Note:

• You may incur additional fees if you fail a test and need to retake it.
• Some driving schools or agencies may charge additional service fees.

Sharing Experiences of Driver's License Conversion in Japan

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use an International Driving Permit to drive in Japan?

A: No. Japan does not recognize International Driving Permits.

Q: Is the written driving test in Japan difficult?

A: The written test is in Japanese and covers Japanese traffic laws and regulations.

Q: Can I learn to drive independently for the driving test in Japan?

A: You can practice driving independently, but your vehicle must display a “Learner’s Car” sign and you must have a qualified supervisor in the passenger seat.

Q: Which driving school should I choose for lessons and the driving test in Japan?

A: Seek recommendations from friends, family, or online forums and communities for Vietnamese people in Japan.

Conclusion

Converting your driver’s license in Japan requires time, effort, and financial investment. This article has hopefully provided useful information about the cost of driver’s license conversion in Japan. We wish you a successful conversion and safe travels on the road!

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