Yokohama

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Driver's License

Information on obtaining or converting a driver's license for those planning to drive in Yokohama.

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Comprehensive Guide to Obtaining a Driver’s License in Yokohama, Japan

Obtaining a driver’s license in Japan, including Yokohama, can be a detailed process, especially for foreigners. The process depends on whether you are converting a foreign license or applying for a new one. Below is a step-by-step guide covering all aspects of obtaining a driver’s license in Yokohama.

Types of Driver’s Licenses in Japan

  1. Ordinary Driver’s License (普通自動車免許 - Futsū jidōsha menkyo):
    • For standard passenger vehicles.
  2. Motorcycle License (自動二輪免許 - Jidō nirin menkyo):
    • For motorcycles, with subcategories for small motorcycles (up to 125cc) and larger ones.
  3. Heavy Vehicle License (大型免許 - Ōgata menkyo):
    • For trucks and buses.
  4. Provisional License (仮免許 - Kari menkyo):
    • A temporary license issued during the learning process.
  5. International Driving Permit (IDP):
    • Valid for one year and only for short-term residents or tourists. Not applicable for long-term residents.

For most foreigners, the focus will be on converting a foreign license or obtaining an ordinary driver’s license.

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

If you already have a valid driver’s license from your home country, you may be eligible to convert it to a Japanese license. This process is called Gaimen Kirikae.

Eligibility

  • You must have held your foreign license for at least three months in the country where it was issued.
  • Your license must still be valid.

Steps for Conversion

  1. Prepare Required Documents:

    • Original foreign driver’s license.
    • Official Japanese translation of your license (issued by the Japan Automobile Federation - JAF or your embassy).
    • Passport (with entry stamps showing your stay in the country where the license was issued).
    • Residence Card (在留カード - Zairyū kādo).
    • Proof of residence in Japan (住民票 - Jūminhyō) from your local ward office.
    • One passport-sized photo (3cm x 2.4cm).

  2. Visit the Kanagawa Prefecture Driver’s License Center:

    • Yokohama residents can visit the Futamatagawa Driver’s License Center:
      • Address: 1-3 Futamatagawa, Asahi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 241-0815.
      • Access: Near Futamatagawa Station on the Sotetsu Line.
      • Hours: Typically 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM (closed on weekends and public holidays).

  3. Document Screening:

    • Submit your documents for verification. The center will check the validity of your foreign license and your eligibility.

  4. Knowledge Test:

    • A short written test (10 true/false questions) in English or Japanese.
    • Covers basic traffic rules in Japan.

  5. Driving Test:

    • A practical driving test on a closed course. This is often the most challenging part, as Japanese driving standards are strict.
    • You may need to practice at a driving school beforehand.

  6. Receive Your License:

    • If you pass all steps, you will receive your Japanese driver’s license.

Estimated Costs for Conversion:

  • Translation of license: ¥3,000 (via JAF).
  • Application fee: ¥2,550.
  • Driving test fee: ¥1,450 (per attempt).
  • Total: Approximately ¥7,000–¥10,000.

2. Obtaining a New Driver’s License

If you do not have a foreign license or cannot convert it, you will need to go through the full process of obtaining a Japanese driver’s license.

Steps for a New License

  1. Enroll in a Driving School (Optional but Recommended):

    • Driving schools in Yokohama, such as Yokohama Driving School, offer comprehensive training.
    • Costs: ¥200,000–¥300,000 for a full course, including lessons and practice tests.

  2. Provisional License (仮免許 - Kari Menkyo):

    • Pass a written test and a practical driving test to obtain a provisional license.
    • This allows you to practice driving on public roads under supervision.

  3. Final Written Test:

    • A more detailed written exam covering Japanese traffic laws and road signs.
    • Available in English or Japanese.

  4. Final Driving Test:

    • Conducted at the Driver’s License Center on a closed course.
    • Focuses on precision, safety, and adherence to Japanese driving etiquette.

  5. Receive Your License:

    • Once you pass all tests, you will receive your license.

Estimated Costs for a New License:

  • Driving school: ¥200,000–¥300,000.
  • Application fees: ¥4,000–¥5,000.
  • Total: ¥205,000–¥305,000.

Important Testing Centers in Yokohama

  1. Futamatagawa Driver’s License Center (二俣川運転免許センター):

    • Main center for license applications, tests, and renewals.
    • Address: 1-3 Futamatagawa, Asahi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 241-0815.

  2. Driving Schools in Yokohama:

    • Yokohama Driving School (横浜自動車学校):
      • Offers lessons in English for foreigners.
      • Address: 1-1-1 Kamariya Higashi, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama.

Cultural and Legal Considerations for Driving in Japan

  1. Driving Side:

    • In Japan, vehicles drive on the left side of the road.

  2. Strict Traffic Laws:

    • Speed limits are strictly enforced (e.g., 60 km/h on regular roads, 100 km/h on expressways).
    • Zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving.

  3. Road Signs:

    • Most road signs are in Japanese and English, but it’s essential to familiarize yourself with Japanese-specific signs.

  4. Parking:

    • Parking is limited and expensive in urban areas like Yokohama. Ensure you have a designated parking space before purchasing a car.

  5. Insurance:

    • All drivers must have compulsory liability insurance (自賠責保険 - Jibaiseki hoken). Additional voluntary insurance is highly recommended.

  6. Cultural Driving Etiquette:

    • Japanese drivers are generally polite and cautious.
    • Use hazard lights to thank other drivers or signal a temporary stop.

Final Tips

  • If you are not confident about passing the driving test, consider enrolling in a driving school for practice.
  • Be patient, as the process can take several weeks or months, especially if you need to retake the driving test.
  • Always carry your driver’s license, residence card, and insurance documents when driving.

By following this guide, you should be well-prepared to obtain a driver’s license in Yokohama and navigate the roads of Japan safely and confidently!