π―π΅ License & Traffic Rules Essential Checks Before Driving
Japan Rental Car License and Traffic Rules Checklist
To drive in Japan, bring an original paper International Driving Permit issued under the Geneva Convention before departure. Also carry your passport and domestic driver's license, and learn local rules such as driving on the left and stopping where required.
As of 2026-09-06
This is the License & Traffic Rules item for a trip to Japan. The 3 checkpoints below can only be settled properly before you leave β put them off and you queue at an airport desk or spend the first day on them instead. Work through them once and nothing has to be reopened.
Key checkpoints
- Check your International Driving Permit's validity period and permitted vehicle classes, then present the original paper permit, your passport, and your domestic driver's license when collecting the rental car.
- Drive on the left in Japan, and remember that right turns cross oncoming traffic; check your direction of entry and signal arrows before entering each intersection.
- Come to a complete stop at stop signs and railway crossings, ensure everyone wears a seat belt, and follow the bans on mobile phone use while driving and driving under the influence.
What to do before departure, in order
Two rules decide the order. First, anything with a deadline β pre-registration, bookings, documents to be issued: miss the cut-off and there is no substitute. Then whatever also works locally, which costs little to postpone.
Most of the items above can only be done before you leave. After arrival, patchy connectivity and opening hours make them harder, so finish what you can while you are still at home.
What to pay attention to in Japan
Japan has digitised its entry procedure, so registering in advance cuts airport queueing time considerably. Cash is still dominant in parts of the country, though, so arriving with cards only can leave you stuck.
Mains voltage is 110V, so some appliances from home will not work directly β check your adapter.
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Japan Rental Car License and Traffic Rules Checklist β the detail most people miss
The common mistake is relying on a phone image or card-format international permit, which is not accepted, so confirm before departure with the issuing authority and the official Japanese police website that yours is an original paper Geneva Convention permit.