Japan vs Norway: Driving Rules Compared

Swap between Japan and Norway and the steering wheel changes sides — Japan is left-hand traffic, Norway 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.

Switching between Japan (left-hand traffic) and Norway (right-hand traffic) requires significant adjustment. Pay special attention to turning, roundabouts, and overtaking — these are the situations where drivers most commonly make errors after switching sides.

Speed Limits Comparison

Speed limits are one of the first things drivers notice when crossing borders. Japan and Norway take notably different approaches.

Drivers in Japan should observe limits of 40 km/h in built-up areas, 60 km/h on rural 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 motorway stretches.

In Norway, the standard speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 110 km/h on motorways.

Key Speed Limit Differences

Always check posted speed signs when crossing between Japan and Norway. Relying on your knowledge of one country’s limits while driving in the other is a common cause of speeding fines for tourists.

Traffic Rules and Regulations

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

Driving side: Japan drives on the left; Norway 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 Norway.

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 Norway, the penalty is NOK 5,000 (approx. EUR 430). 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 Norway. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is Warning / 1 point (no fine for first offence) in Japan and NOK 1,500 (approx. EUR 130) in Norway.

Running a red light: Red-light violations carry serious penalties. In Japan, expect JPY 9,000 (approx. EUR 55) + 2 points. In Norway, the penalty is NOK 6,800 (approx. EUR 590).

Alcohol and DUI Laws

Alcohol and driving regulations differ between Japan and Norway, and the penalties for non-compliance can be severe in both.

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

Norway has a BAC limit of 0.02%.

The lower limit in Norway 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 Norway 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 Norway, 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.
• Norway: Winter tyres are situational. Period: 1 Nov - first Sunday after Easter Monday (northern Norway: 16 Oct - 30 Apr). Studded tyres: allowed. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.

Mandatory Equipment

Rental vehicles usually come equipped for the country of hire. If you intend to drive in both Japan and Norway, check with the rental company that the vehicle has all required items for both destinations.

Speeding Penalties

The financial consequences of speeding vary between Japan and Norway.

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 Norway, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: NOK 2,550 (approx. EUR 220). 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

Licence requirements for foreign visitors differ between {a} and {b}. Here is what you need to know.

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.

Norway: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is recommended for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 3 months on a foreign licence EU/EEA licences valid. Non-EU/EEA licence valid for 3 months with 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

Save these emergency numbers before travelling to Japan or Norway:

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

If you are planning to drive in both Japan and Norway, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. Be aware of environmental zones. Many cities have low-emission zones that restrict older vehicles. Check if you need an environmental sticker for either country.

4. 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.

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

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. Understand toll systems. Research whether you need a vignette, transponder, or cash for tolls in each country.

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.

Tourist reviews give Japan a driving ease score of 3.0/5 (Moderate). Left-hand driving, expensive tolls, excellent roads, kanji signage

Tourist reviews give Norway a driving ease score of 2.4/5 (Easy). Stunning roads, tunnels, ferries, strict enforcement, expensive

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Norway 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 Norway?

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 Norway 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 Norway?

In Japan, winter tyres are situational (Prefectural regulations; Hokkaido, Tohoku require winter tyres in winter). In Norway, they are situational (1 Nov - first Sunday after Easter Monday (northern Norway: 16 Oct - 30 Apr)). 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?

Norway has a stricter BAC limit (0.02%) compared to Japan (0.03%). Lower limits mean less alcohol is tolerated before driving becomes illegal.

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

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

Can I use my car insurance from Japan in Norway?

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

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

In Japan, the general emergency number is 110 (police: 110, ambulance: 119). In Norway, call 112 (police: 112, ambulance: 113). Save both numbers in your phone before you travel.