Review of Japan’s “Gaimen Kirikae” (Foreign License Conversion) System
Japan’s National Police Agency has decided to tighten the rules for converting foreign driver’s licenses (known as “Gaimen Kirikae”) to Japanese licenses. Previously, even tourists visiting Japan could obtain a Japanese license by using a hotel address.
However, starting in October 2025, short-term visitors and tourists will no longer be able to use this system.
Why Are the Rules Changing?
- Increase in Accidents: There has been a rise in traffic accidents involving foreigners who obtained Japanese licenses through the conversion system.
- Growing Numbers: In 2024, about 68,000 foreigners acquired Japanese licenses via conversion, with a significant portion being Chinese nationals who used hotel addresses for their applications.
- Address Verification Issues: Allowing hotel addresses made it difficult for authorities to track drivers involved in incidents.
What Will Change?
- Proof of Residence Required: Only those with a Japanese residence certificate will be eligible for license conversion. Short-term visitors and tourists without a residence certificate will be excluded.
- Stricter Exams:
- The written knowledge test will increase from 10 to 50 questions, and applicants must score at least 90% to pass.
- The practical driving test will also become more rigorous.
- Hotel Addresses No Longer Accepted: Using a hotel’s address or a short-term accommodation as proof of residence will no longer be permitted.
Chinese Tourists and License Conversion
- Many Chinese visitors stayed in hotels for a short period and used the hotel’s address to obtain a Japanese license. The system allowed applications even on tourist visas, as long as a hotel-issued “certificate of stay” was provided.
- With a Japanese license, holders can also obtain an international driving permit, making it attractive for international mobility.
- The relatively simple conversion process contributed to a sharp increase in Chinese applicants.
Policies by Minister Iwaya and the Surge in Chinese Applications
- Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya promoted policies to relax visa requirements for Chinese tourists, such as introducing 10-year multiple-entry visas and extending group tour stays from 15 to 30 days.
- These measures led to a surge in Chinese visitors and, consequently, a rise in license conversion applications by Chinese nationals.
Summary
- Past: Many Chinese tourists obtained Japanese licenses using hotel addresses.
- Present: Due to increased accidents and system abuse, Japan will require proof of residence and tougher exams for license conversions.
- Background: Visa relaxations under Minister Iwaya contributed to the increase in Chinese tourists and license applications.
- Future: From October 2025, only residents with proper documentation can convert foreign licenses to Japanese ones. Tourists must use international driving permits instead.
This change aims to improve road safety and ensure that only qualified, properly documented residents can drive in Japan.
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