How to get a driver's license in Japan for foreigners

Do you want to drive in Japan?
Foreigners can get a driving license in Japan.
This page explains the steps, requirements, and how to find language-supportive driving schools with the YOLO DRIVE service.

>> Find a driving school with language support (YOLO DRIVE)

1. Requirements to Get a Driving License in Japan

To get a license in Japan, you need to meet these conditions:

・Age: 18 years or older (16+ for scooters)
・Vision: At least 0.3 in one eye and 0.7 in both (glasses/contact lenses OK)
・Hearing: Can understand daily conversation
・Color recognition: Can recognize red, yellow, and green traffic lights
・Physical ability: No serious physical issues affecting driving (OK if you can drive safely)

2. Steps to Get a License Through a Driving School

2-1. Choose a Driving School

Fees and language support vary by school. Choose AT (automatic) or MT (manual) license.
Most cars in Japan use AT, which is easier to operate.

>>See language-supported driving schools (YOLO DRIVE)

2-2. School Process

Step 1: Orientation and basic checks (eyesight, hearing, etc.)
Step 2: First stage: 10 hours classroom + driving lessons (AT: 12h / MT: 15h)
Step 3: Provisional license test
Step 4: Second stage: 16 hours classroom + 19h driving practice
Step 5: Final exam (graduation test from school)
Step 6: Main license exam at a prefectural testing center

It usually takes about 2–3 months to finish a regular course. A training camp course can be completed in as little as 15 days.

>> Learn about training camps vs. regular schools

3. Use "YOLO DRIVE" to Find Driving Schools for Foreigners

YOLO DRIVE is a service from YOLO JAPAN that helps foreigners get a driving license in Japan.

・Supports English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Nepali, Bengali
・Recommends driving schools with foreign language support
・Provides support from multilingual staff

>> Check out YOLO DRIVE

Why register with YOLO JAPAN?

・Apply for YOLO DRIVE easily
・Apply for jobs for foreigners in Japan
・Receive helpful information for life in Japan

>>Register now for free

4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Can I take lessons in English?
A. Yes. Some schools offer English support. Use YOLO DRIVE to find them.

Q. How much does it cost?
A. It depends on the school, but usually costs ¥200,000 to ¥350,000.

Q. I already have a license from another country. What should I do?
A. You may be able to switch to a Japanese license.
>> See how to switch a foreign license

Q. I will stay in Japan for less than 1 year. Can I drive?
A. You might be able to use an international license.
>> See info for short-term stays