Nagoya

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Driver's License

New residents may need to convert their foreign driver’s license or obtain a Japanese driver’s license for legal driving in Nagoya.

Sections

1. Types of Driver’s Licenses in Japan

In Japan, driver’s licenses are categorized based on the type of vehicle you wish to operate. The most common types are:

  • Ordinary Driver’s License (普通自動車免許, Futsū Jidōsha Menkyo): For standard passenger cars.
  • Motorcycle License (二輪免許, Nirin Menkyo): For motorcycles, with subcategories for small and large motorcycles.
  • Heavy Vehicle License (大型免許, Ōgata Menkyo): For trucks and buses.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): Temporary use for foreigners with valid permits (valid for up to one year).

For most visitors and immigrants, the focus will be on obtaining or converting an Ordinary Driver’s License.

2. Procedures to Obtain a Driver’s License in Nagoya

The process depends on whether you are:

  1. Converting a Foreign Driver’s License (Gaimen Kirikae, 外免切替):

    • If you already hold a valid driver’s license from your home country, you may be eligible to convert it to a Japanese license.
    • This process involves document verification, a written test, and a practical driving test (though some countries are exempt from the practical test).

  2. Applying for a New License:

    • If you do not have a valid foreign license or cannot convert it, you will need to go through the full licensing process, including attending a driving school, passing written and practical tests, and completing mandatory training.

3. Steps to Convert a Foreign Driver’s License

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

  • You must have held your foreign license for at least three months after issuance.
  • Some countries (e.g., the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, etc.) are exempt from the practical driving test, but others are not.

Step 2: Prepare Necessary Documents

You will need:

  1. Your valid foreign driver’s license.
  2. An official Japanese translation of your license (issued by the Japan Automobile Federation, JAF, or your embassy).
  3. Your residence card (在留カード, Zairyū Kādo) showing your address in Japan.
  4. Your passport.
  5. A recent photograph (3 cm x 2.4 cm).
  6. Proof of residence (住民票, Jūminhyō) from your local city office.
  7. Proof of when you obtained your foreign license (if not stated on the license itself).

Step 3: Visit the Nagoya Driver’s License Center

  • In Nagoya, the main office for license-related procedures is the Aichi Prefecture Driver’s License Examination Center (愛知県運転免許試験場), located in Nagoya City, Hirabari.
    • Address: 1-12 Hirabari, Tempaku-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 468-0021
    • Phone: 052-801-3211
    • Hours: Typically 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM (closed on weekends and public holidays).

Step 4: Take the Tests

  1. Document Screening: Your documents will be reviewed to confirm eligibility.
  2. Eye Test: A simple vision test is required.
  3. Written Test: A short test (10 true/false questions) on Japanese traffic rules. English versions are available.
  4. Practical Driving Test: If required, you will need to demonstrate your driving skills on a designated course.

Step 5: Receive Your License

  • If you pass all the tests, you will receive your Japanese driver’s license on the same day.

4. Steps to Apply for a New Driver’s License

If you are starting from scratch:

  1. Enroll in a Driving School (自動車学校, Jidōsha Gakkō):

    • Driving schools in Nagoya, such as Nagoya Driving School (名古屋自動車学校), offer comprehensive training programs.
    • Costs: ¥250,000–¥350,000 for the full course, including lessons, materials, and test fees.
    • Duration: Typically 1–3 months, depending on your schedule.

  2. Pass the Written Test:

    • A 50-question multiple-choice test on Japanese traffic laws.
    • Available in English at most testing centers.

  3. Pass the Practical Driving Test:

    • Conducted at the Hirabari Driver’s License Center or other designated locations.
    • You will drive on a closed course and demonstrate skills such as parking, turning, and obeying traffic signals.

  4. Complete Mandatory Training:

    • Includes first-aid training and hazard perception.

  5. Receive Your License:

    • After passing all tests and completing training, you will be issued your license.

5. Costs Involved

The costs vary depending on the process:

  • License Conversion:

    • Translation Fee (JAF): ¥4,000
    • Application Fee: ¥2,550
    • Practical Test Fee (if required): ¥4,000–¥5,000
    • Total: ¥6,550–¥11,550

  • New License:

    • Driving School: ¥250,000–¥350,000
    • Application Fee: ¥2,550
    • Written Test Fee: ¥1,500
    • Practical Test Fee: ¥4,000–¥5,000
    • Total: ¥258,050–¥358,050

6. Language Considerations for Non-Japanese Speakers

  • Written Tests: English versions are available for the written test at most centers, including the Hirabari Driver’s License Center.
  • Driving Schools: Some schools in Nagoya offer English-speaking instructors or materials. Check with the school beforehand.
  • Translation Services: The Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) provides official translations of foreign licenses. Visit their Nagoya branch for assistance:
    • Address: 1-1-35 Noritake, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 453-0801
    • Phone: 052-452-1121

7. Tips for Success

  • Study Japanese Traffic Rules: Even if you take the test in English, understanding Japanese road signs and rules is crucial.
  • Practice Driving: If you need to take the practical test, consider practicing on a course similar to the one at the testing center.
  • Arrive Early: Testing centers can be busy, so arrive early to complete the process smoothly.
  • Bring Cash: Many fees must be paid in cash, so ensure you have enough on hand.

8. Additional Resources

By following this guide, you should be well-prepared to obtain your driver’s license in Nagoya. If you have further questions or need assistance, feel free to ask!