Japan vs Latvia: Driving Rules Compared

Swap between Japan and Latvia and the steering wheel changes sides — Japan is left-hand traffic, Latvia right-hand — so give yourself a day to adjust before tackling city driving. Motorway limits sit at 100 versus 110 km/h, and the comparison below lines the rest up rule by rule.

Japan drives on the left while Latvia drives on the right. This is one of the most significant adjustments drivers must make when travelling between these two countries. Take extra care at junctions, roundabouts, and when overtaking.

Speed Limits Comparison

Speed limits differ between Japan and Latvia, and understanding these differences is essential for avoiding fines.

Japan sets its speed limits at 40 km/h in cities and towns, 60 km/h on country roads, and 100 km/h (100 km/h standard; 120 km/h on select expressway sections (Shin-Tomei, Tohoku, Joban). From Sept 2026, narrow residential roads default to 30 km/h) on motorways.

Drivers in Latvia should observe limits of 50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 110 km/h on motorway stretches.

Key Speed Limit Differences

Drivers transitioning between Japan and Latvia should pay close attention to posted signs, as assumptions based on one country’s rules can lead to speeding tickets in the other. Speed cameras are common in both countries, and enforcement can be strict.

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Beyond speed limits, Japan and Latvia have several important differences in their general traffic rules.

Driving side: Japan drives on the left; Latvia drives on the right. This is a major difference that requires careful adjustment.

Minimum driving age: The minimum age to drive a car is 18 in Japan and 18 in Latvia.

Mobile phone use: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal in both countries. In Japan, the penalty is JPY 18,000 (approx. EUR 115) + 3 points. In Latvia, the penalty is EUR 50-100. Hands-free devices are generally permitted in both countries, but drivers should keep their attention on the road.

Seatbelts: Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants in both Japan and Latvia. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is Warning / 1 point (no fine for first offence) in Japan and EUR 30-50 in Latvia.

Running a red light: Red-light violations carry serious penalties. In Japan, expect JPY 9,000 (approx. EUR 55) + 2 points. In Latvia, the penalty is EUR 70-140 + 4 penalty points.

Alcohol and DUI Laws

Understanding each country’s approach to drink-driving is critical, as enforcement and penalties vary considerably.

Japan sets its blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit at 0.03%.

Latvia has a BAC limit of 0.05%.

The lower limit in Japan means that even a small amount of alcohol could put you over the legal limit. Adjust your behaviour accordingly.

Penalties for exceeding the BAC limit in both Japan and Latvia can include heavy fines, licence suspension, and even imprisonment. Novice drivers face even stricter thresholds in many countries. The safest policy is to not drink at all when you plan to drive.

Tyre and Equipment Requirements

Before driving in Japan or Latvia, check that your vehicle carries all the legally required equipment. Requirements differ between the two countries.

Winter Tyres

• Japan: Winter tyres are situational. Period: Prefectural regulations; Hokkaido, Tohoku require winter tyres in winter. Studded tyres: restricted. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.
• Latvia: Winter tyres are mandatory. Period: 1 Dec - 1 Mar. Studded tyres: restricted. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.

Mandatory Equipment

When renting a car, rental companies typically provide the legally required equipment for the country of hire. If you plan to cross the border, confirm with the rental agency that the vehicle is equipped for both countries.

Speeding Penalties

The financial consequences of speeding vary between Japan and Latvia.

In Japan, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: JPY 9,000 (approx. EUR 55) + 1 point. Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

In Latvia, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: EUR 30-40. Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

Both countries use a combination of fixed speed cameras, mobile speed traps, and in some cases average speed (section control) cameras.

Licence Requirements for Visitors

International visitors planning to drive in either country should understand the licence requirements.

Japan: An IDP is required. Visitors can typically drive for up to 12 months on a foreign licence IDP required (1949 Geneva Convention only). US, UK and many EU licences need specific IDP. Drives on the left.

Latvia: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is recommended for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 12 months on a foreign licence EU/EEA licences valid. Non-EU visitors need IDP.

Always carry your licence (and IDP if applicable) while driving, as police may request to see it during routine checks or traffic stops.

Emergency Numbers

In case of an emergency while driving, it is essential to know the local numbers:

Save these numbers in your phone before travelling. In an emergency, quick access to the correct number is crucial.

Practical Tips for Driving in Both Countries

Before hitting the road in Japan or Latvia, consider these practical driving tips:

1. Equip your vehicle properly. Ensure you have all mandatory equipment for both countries. It is better to carry extra items than to face a fine for missing equipment.

2. Adjust to speed limits immediately. When crossing the border, speed limits change. Look for signs and adjust your driving accordingly. Do not rely on habits from the other country.

3. Check insurance coverage. Verify that your motor insurance or rental agreement covers driving in both countries. A Green Card may be required for cross-border travel.

4. Watch for different road signs. While European countries share many sign conventions, there are country-specific signs you should recognise. Review a local driving guide before your trip.

5. Use a GPS or navigation app. Modern navigation apps often include speed limit warnings, toll information, and real-time traffic updates that can help you comply with local rules.

6. Research before you go. Familiarise yourself with the specific rules of each country before your trip. Print or save a summary of key rules for quick reference.

7. Plan fuel stops. Fuel prices and station availability can vary significantly. In some regions, stations may close at night or on Sundays.

8. Carry the right documents. Ensure you have your driving licence, IDP (if needed), vehicle registration, and insurance documents. Some countries require you to carry these at all times.

Which Country Is Easier for Tourists to Drive In?

Which country is easier to drive in depends on your experience level, where you are from, and what conditions you are used to.

Based on tourist ratings, Japan scores 3.0/5 (Moderate). Left-hand driving, expensive tolls, excellent roads, kanji signage

Based on tourist ratings, Latvia scores 2.7/5 (Moderate). Mixed road quality, Via Baltica busy, rural roads rough

The switch between left-hand traffic in Japan and right-hand traffic in Latvia is the single biggest adjustment drivers will face.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Latvia with a Japan driving licence?

Rules vary by nationality. Check the specific licence requirements for each country, and consider obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) before your trip.

What is the speed limit on motorways in Japan compared to Latvia?

The motorway speed limit in Japan is 100 km/h (100 km/h standard; 120 km/h on select expressway sections (Shin-Tomei, Tohoku, Joban). From Sept 2026, narrow residential roads default to 30 km/h), while in Latvia it is 110 km/h. Always watch for posted signs, as limits may vary on specific sections due to roadworks, weather, or local restrictions.

Are winter tyres mandatory in Japan or Latvia?

In Japan, winter tyres are situational (Prefectural regulations; Hokkaido, Tohoku require winter tyres in winter). In Latvia, they are mandatory (1 Dec - 1 Mar). If you are travelling during winter months, it is advisable to use winter tyres regardless of legal requirements for safety.

Which country has stricter drink-driving laws?

Japan has a stricter BAC limit (0.03%) compared to Latvia (0.05%). Lower limits mean less alcohol is tolerated before driving becomes illegal.

What side of the road do they drive on in Japan and Latvia?

Japan drives on the left side and Latvia drives on the right side of the road.

Can I use my car insurance from Japan in Latvia?

International motor insurance coverage varies by provider and policy. Contact your insurer before travelling to confirm coverage in both Japan and Latvia. You may need to purchase additional local insurance.

What emergency number should I call while driving in Japan or Latvia?

In Japan, the general emergency number is 110 (police: 110, ambulance: 119). In Latvia, call 112 (police: 112, ambulance: 112). Save both numbers in your phone before you travel.