1. Overview of License Conversion (Gaimen Kirikae)
Holders of a valid foreign driver’s license residing in Japan can apply to convert their license into a Japanese driver’s license through Gaimen Kirikae (外免切替). Exemptions from knowledge testing or driving skills evaluation depend on whether the issuing country or region is designated under current Japanese rules. Applicants must check current National Police Agency and prefectural police guidance.
2. Key Eligibility Requirement: Stay of More Than 3 Months After Obtaining License
A core statutory requirement is demonstrating a total stay of more than three months in the issuing country or region after obtaining the foreign license. Official documents such as passports and entry/exit records are evaluated, and licensing authorities determine whether submitted evidence is sufficient to satisfy this requirement.
3. Required Documents, Authorized Japanese Translations, and Prefectural Centers
Applicants must submit their valid foreign license, an authorized Japanese translation produced by an entity recognized under current Japanese rules, a Certificate of Residence (Juminhyo), photos, and proof of stay in the issuing country. Verify the current list of recognized translation providers with the NPA or prefectural police before submission.
EDITORIAL NOTE & DRAFT STATUS
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