Global Major Cities Guide

Information on obtaining or using an international or Japanese driver's license in Osaka.

To obtain a driver’s license in Osaka, you must meet the following criteria:

Age Requirement:
- 18 years or older for a regular car license.
- 16 years or older for a motorcycle license (depending on engine size).
Residency: You must have a valid residence status in Japan and proof of residence in Osaka Prefecture.
Health: You must meet the physical and mental health requirements, including good vision, hearing, and motor skills.
Language: While the process is conducted primarily in Japanese, some testing centers in Osaka may offer English support for written exams. However, basic Japanese proficiency is highly recommended.

The documents you need depend on whether you are converting a foreign license or applying for a new one. Below are the general requirements:

Valid Foreign Driver’s License: Issued in your home country.
Official Translation of Your License: Obtain this from the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF). The Osaka JAF office can assist with this.
Passport: To verify your identity and travel history.
Residence Card (Zairyu Card): Proof of your legal status and address in Japan.
Certificate of Residence (住民票, Juminhyo): Obtainable from your local ward office in Osaka.
Proof of Driving Experience: You must show that you held your foreign license for at least three months after issuance before arriving in Japan.
Two Passport-Sized Photos: 3 cm x 2.4 cm, taken within the last six months.
Application Form: Provided at the testing center.

The process differs depending on whether you are converting a foreign license or applying for a new one.

Document Submission and Screening:
- Visit the Osaka Prefectural Driver’s License Center (details below) to submit your documents.
- Your documents will be reviewed to confirm eligibility.
Knowledge Test:
- A short written test (10 true/false questions) is required. English versions are available.
- Study basic Japanese traffic rules beforehand.
Driving Test:
- A practical driving test is conducted on a closed course. This is often the most challenging part, as Japanese driving standards are strict.
- Consider taking a few practice lessons at a local driving school in Osaka to familiarize yourself with the test course.
Issuance:
- If you pass both tests, your Japanese driver’s license will be issued on the same day.

Enroll in a Driving School:
- It is highly recommended to attend a certified driving school in Osaka. These schools provide comprehensive training and prepare you for the exams.
- Courses are typically conducted in Japanese, but some schools may offer English support.
Written Test:
- A 50-question multiple-choice test on Japanese traffic laws.
- Study materials are available in English, but the test itself may require basic Japanese comprehension.
Practical Driving Test:
- Conducted at a testing center. You will be tested on a closed course and, later, on public roads.
Final Steps:
- After passing the tests, you will receive your license.

The costs can vary depending on whether you are converting a license or applying for a new one.

In Osaka, the main centers for driver’s license-related services are:

Kadoma Driver’s License Center (門真運転免許試験場):
- Address: 3-14-1 Kadoma, Kadoma City, Osaka Prefecture.
- Services: License conversion, written tests, practical tests, and issuance.
- Access: 10-minute walk from Kadoma-shi Station (Keihan Line or Osaka Monorail).
Izumi Driver’s License Center (光明池運転免許試験場):
- Address: 1-3-1 Komyoike, Izumi City, Osaka Prefecture.
- Services: Same as Kadoma Center.
- Access: 15-minute walk from Komyoike Station (Semboku Rapid Railway).

Driving Style: In Japan, people drive on the left side of the road. Osaka drivers are known for being slightly more aggressive compared to other regions, so stay alert and cautious.
Politeness: While driving, it’s customary to flash your hazard lights briefly to thank other drivers for letting you merge or pass.
Language Barrier: Most staff at testing centers and driving schools in Osaka may not speak fluent English. Consider bringing a Japanese-speaking friend or interpreter if needed.
Traffic Rules: Japan has strict traffic laws, including zero tolerance for drinking and driving. Familiarize yourself with local rules, such as stopping completely at railroad crossings and yielding to pedestrians.
Public Transport: Osaka has an excellent public transportation system. Many residents rely on trains and buses, so owning a car is not always necessary unless you live in suburban or rural areas.

Practice Driving: If you’re taking the practical test, practice extensively on courses similar to the testing center’s layout. Driving schools in Osaka often offer mock test courses.
Study Traffic Laws: Use English-language resources like the JAF’s “Rules of the Road” book to prepare for the written test.
Be Patient: The process can take time, especially if you need to retake the practical test. Stay persistent and focused.

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

Osaka