Your 1968 IDP Is Void in Japan — Bring the 1949 One (2026)

Japan accepts the 1949 Geneva international driving permit and nothing else, which strands holders of the 1968 Vienna version issued across much of Europe — and there is no counter at the airport that will sell you the right one once you arrive. Traffic runs on the left, the blood-alcohol ceiling is a strict 0.03%, and speeding is priced from JPY 9,000 for 1–15 km/h over up to JPY 35,000 and beyond past 35 km/h. Urban limits sit at 40 km/h and expressways at 100 km/h, with 120 km/h on selected Shin-Tomei, Tohoku and Joban sections; from September 2026 narrow residential streets default to 30 km/h.

Speed limits are 40 km/h in urban areas, 60 km/h on rural roads, and 100 km/h on motorways. The blood alcohol limit is 0.03% BAC. You must be at least 18 to drive.

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Unlike neighboring South Korea, Japan drives on the left — take extra care if crossing the border.

Emergency Numbers in Japan

General Emergency: 110 | Police: 110 | Ambulance: 119 | Fire: 119

Save these numbers before you start driving. In Japan, emergency calls are free from any phone.

Speed Limits in Japan

Trucks and vehicles over 3.5 tonnes have lower limits: 30 km/h urban, 50 km/h rural, and 80 km/h on motorways.

For comparison, motorway limits in nearby countries: South Korea (110 km/h), China (120 km/h), Taiwan (110 km/h).

Japan uses an extensive network of fixed and mobile speed cameras. The typical enforcement tolerance is about 10 km/h.

Important: Posted signs always override default limits. Watch for temporary restrictions in construction zones, near schools, and in residential areas.

Speeding Fines and Penalties

Foreign drivers in Japan may be required to pay fines on the spot. Carry sufficient cash or a valid payment card.

Other common fines:

• Mobile phone use while driving: JPY 18,000 (approx. EUR 115) + 3 points
• Running a red light: JPY 9,000 (approx. EUR 55) + 2 points
• Seatbelt violation: Warning / 1 point (no fine for first offence)

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Drive on the left side of the road. Overtake on the right. At roundabouts, traffic flows clockwise — give way to vehicles already in the roundabout.

Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Children must use appropriate restraint systems based on their age and height.

Using a hand-held phone while driving is illegal. The fine is JPY 18,000 (approx. EUR 115) + 3 points. Use hands-free devices only.

Use headlights in poor visibility, tunnels, and at night. Some areas require headlights at all times.

At unmarked intersections, traffic from the right generally has priority unless signs indicate otherwise.

Drink-Driving Laws and Alcohol Limits

The safest approach is to not drink at all if you will be driving. Alcohol affects reaction time and judgement regardless of the legal limit.

Tyre Requirements and Regulations

The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm. Safety experts recommend replacing tyres at 3.0 mm for adequate grip.

Studded tyres: restricted.

For detailed tyre law information, see our Tyre Laws in Japan guide.

Mandatory Vehicle Equipment

Vehicles in Japan must carry the following:

Required:

• Warning triangle

Keep all equipment accessible — not buried under luggage. Police may check during routine stops.

Driving License Requirements

The minimum driving age is 18 years.

IDP required (1949 Geneva Convention only). US, UK and many EU licences need specific IDP. Drives on the left.

Parking and Fuel

Parking in major cities can be limited and expensive. Shopping centres and commercial areas usually have dedicated car parks. Read signs carefully to avoid towing.

Current fuel prices in Japan: petrol approximately $1.35/litre, diesel $1.20/litre (USD). Prices vary by region and station.

Most fuel stations accept major credit and debit cards. In rural areas, keep your tank above half — stations may be far apart.

Seasonal Driving Conditions

Japan has seasonal climate with monsoons. Check weather forecasts before long journeys and adjust your driving to conditions. Road surfaces and visibility can change quickly with weather.

Useful Driving Phrases in Japanese

Knowing a few phrases in Japanese helps at fuel stations, toll booths, and during police checks:

Download the Japanese language pack in your translation app for offline use.

Practical Driving Tips for Japan

• If switching from right-hand traffic, concentrate on turns and roundabouts — these are where most mistakes happen.
• Speed camera warning apps (Waze, Google Maps) are legal here.
• Dashcams are legal and recommended for evidence in case of an accident.
• Police can issue on-the-spot fines. Carry cash or a valid payment card.
• Download offline maps of Japan before your trip — mobile signal can be unreliable on rural roads.
• Take a break every 2 hours on long drives. Fatigue is a leading cause of road accidents.
• Use our interactive tools on this page — compare rules with your home country and calculate potential fines before you set off.