Renting a Car in Japan: Licences, Rules & Driving Tips

While Japan's trains are superb, some regions — like Hokkaido, Okinawa and rural areas — are best explored by car. Here's what visitors need to know before getting behind the wheel.

The licence you need

To legally drive in Japan, foreign visitors generally need one of the following, and this is essential to get right:

• An International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention, obtained in your home country before you travel — carry it together with your home licence and passport. Japan does not accept IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a permit from a country that only issues the Vienna version is of no use here.
• Six places are handled differently. Licences from Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco and Taiwan do not need an IDP, but you must carry an official Japanese translation of the licence, issued by JAF (the Japan Automobile Federation) or another authorised body such as your country's embassy or consulate in Japan.
• Either route lets you drive for a maximum of one year from your date of entry into Japan.
• You cannot fix this after you land. An IDP cannot be issued inside Japan, and without the correct document no rental company will give you a car — and driving anyway is treated as driving without a licence.

Driving basics

• Japan drives on the left, with the steering wheel on the right.
• Seat belts are mandatory; child seats are required for young children.
• Drink-driving laws are extremely strict — do not drink any alcohol before driving.
• Using a handheld phone while driving is prohibited.
• Speeds and signs are in km/h; many signs include English.

Renting

• Rental counters are at airports and major stations; book ahead, especially in peak seasons.
• You'll need your licence, IDP (or translation), and passport.
• Cars usually come with a Japanese navigation system; many offer English settings — ask.
• Understand the insurance/waiver options offered and choose appropriately.

On the road

• Expressways (highways) are tolls; an ETC card speeds up toll gates, or pay at manned lanes.
• Fuel is sold at petrol stations (full-service and self-service exist).
• Parking in cities is limited and paid; car parks and coin lots are common.
• In winter, snow regions require snow tyres and cautious driving — check conditions and rental options.

When a car makes sense

• Great for: Hokkaido, Okinawa, rural areas, national parks and coastlines with limited transit.
• Less ideal for: big cities like Tokyo, where trains are faster and parking is costly.

Practical reminders

• Confirm current licence requirements, tolls and rules on official sources before your trip.
• Keep the emergency numbers handy: 110 (police), 119 (ambulance).
• Drive calmly, watch for cyclists and pedestrians, and enjoy the freedom of the open road.

Sort the paperwork in advance, and a rental car unlocks the scenic, rural side of Japan that trains can't always reach.