How to Get Your Scooter License in Japan: A Complete Guide

Are you a foreign resident in Japan thinking about working with a scooter? 
In this article, we'll clearly explain how to get a scooter license (原付免許-Gentsuki Menkyo) and what jobs you can do with it.

>> If you're looking for driver jobs, please click here.

What Is a  Scooter (原付-Gentsuki)?

• A small motorcycle with 50cc or less engine size
• Maximum speed: 30 km/h
• No passengers allowed
• Helmet required
• Follows the same road rules as cars

How to Get a Scooter License in Japan

Getting a scooter license in Japan is not difficult. You can learn the traffic rules and basic riding skills, and finish everything in about one day.
If you want to switch from your home country's license, check this page.

■Requirements

• Must be 16 years or older
• Have a valid residence card
• Registered address in Japan (juminhyo)
• Vision of at least 0.5 with or without glasses/contact lenses

■Steps to Get a License

①Prepare necessary documents:
・Juminhyo (with nationality)
・Residence card or Special Permanent Resident certificate
・Hanko (personal seal)
・ID photo (3.0cm x 2.4cm) — can be taken at testing site
・Pen or pencil for test

②Go to the testing center:
1) Fill out application form
2) Buy revenue stamps (ask counter for cost)
3) Take aptitude test (vision, hearing, etc.)
4) Take written test
5) If you pass, attend a riding skills class
6) Get your scooter license

■About the Written Test

The test includes questions in text and pictures. You need at least 45 points to pass. Be sure to study well before going.

Sample Questions

Q: scooters cannot go on expressways, but can use car-only roads.
A: ✕ (False)

Q: While riding, it is better to scan the road widely rather than looking at one point.
A: 〇 (True)

You may be able to take lessons or tests in your native language. Ask the school first as only some allow this.

■Fees

• Written test: 1,500 yen
• Riding class: 4,500 yen
• License fee: 2,050 yen
Total: 8,050 yen

Jobs You Can Do with a Scooter License

There are many jobs in Japan where a scooter license is useful:

・Delivery jobs (Uber Eats, Demaekan, etc.)
・Moving parts in a factory
・Light delivery and warehouse work

See driver job listings

How to Find Jobs That Need a Scooter License

YOLO JAPAN offers many jobs for people with a scooter license. If you have a valid visa, you can apply today.

Register Now on YOLO JAPAN!

If you want to work using your scooter license, sign up for free with YOLO JAPAN and apply for jobs!

>> Sign up here (free)

✓Supports English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Portuguese
✓No resume required when applying for jobs
✓Scout function for efficient job searching
✓Jobs searchable by Japanese language level
✓Free membership registration