International Driving Permit vs JAF Translation: Which Do You Need in Japan?

The Two Ways to Drive Legally in Japan

Foreign visitors in Japan have two legal options for driving: an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a JAF Translation. Which one you need depends entirely on where your driver's license was issued.

This is one of the most common points of confusion for travelers and expats. Many people arrive in Japan with the wrong document — or no document at all — and discover they can't legally drive. Here's how to avoid that situation.

Quick Comparison

	International Driving Permit (IDP)	JAF Translation
For licenses from	Geneva Convention countries (most of the world)	29 specific countries/territories
Where to get it	Your home country (before traveling)	JAF offices in Japan or online via JDTLC
Cost	Varies by country (typically $15–$50)	¥4,000 at JAF / from €99 via JDTLC
Validity	1 year from date of issue	1 year from date of entry into Japan
Can get in Japan?	No — must be obtained before arrival	Yes — can be obtained in Japan
Format	Standardized booklet (1949 Geneva Convention)	Official JAF translation certificate

What Is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

An IDP is a standardized document based on the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. It translates your license information into multiple languages and is recognized in countries that signed the convention.

Japan recognizes IDPs from Geneva Convention signatory countries. This includes the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, most of South America, and many others.

Key facts about IDPs in Japan:

• You must get your IDP before leaving your home country. You cannot obtain one in Japan.
• Japan only accepts IDPs based on the 1949 Geneva Convention — not the 1968 Vienna Convention. This catches many European drivers off guard.
• Your IDP is valid for one year from the date it was issued (not your entry date).
• You must carry your IDP + original license + passport while driving.

What Is a JAF Translation?

A JAF Translation is an official Japanese translation of your driver's license, issued by the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF). It's required for drivers from 29 specific countries that have bilateral agreements with Japan.

These countries include Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Taiwan, and others. For a complete list and step-by-step instructions, see our JAF Translation Guide.

Key facts about JAF translations:

• You can get it in Japan — at any JAF office or through services like JDTLC.
• It's valid for one year from your entry date into Japan.
• You must carry your JAF translation + original license + passport while driving.

Which One Do You Need?

You need a JAF Translation if your license is from:

Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Estonia, Monaco, Slovenia, Italy, Austria, United Kingdom, Taiwan, South Korea, and other qualifying countries. Check the official JAF list.

You need an IDP if your license is from:

United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, South Africa, Thailand, the Philippines, and most other countries that signed the 1949 Geneva Convention.

Special cases:

• Germany, France, Switzerland, etc.: These countries signed the Vienna Convention (1968), not the Geneva Convention (1949). Their IDPs are not valid in Japan. You need a JAF translation instead.
• China / Mainland China licenses: Neither an IDP nor a JAF translation is available. You'll need to obtain a Japanese driver's license.
• Hong Kong: Requires a JAF translation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Getting an IDP when you need a JAF translation

This happens most often with Swiss and German drivers. Many assume an IDP will work everywhere — but Japan doesn't accept Vienna Convention IDPs. If your country requires a JAF translation, an IDP will not work.

Mistake #2: Forgetting to get your IDP before leaving home

Unlike JAF translations, IDPs can only be obtained in your home country. If you arrive in Japan without one and your country doesn't qualify for a JAF translation, you're out of luck.

Mistake #3: Thinking your IDP is a standalone document

An IDP is not a license — it's a translation supplement. You must always carry your original license alongside it. Rental agencies will ask for both.

Mistake #4: Not checking validity dates

IDP validity is from the issue date. JAF translation validity is from your entry date into Japan. This distinction matters for long-term residents.

What If I Already Have an IDP but My Country Requires a JAF Translation?

Unfortunately, you'll need to get a JAF translation. Your IDP may work at some rental agencies (staff may not know the difference), but legally you are not authorized to drive. If you're stopped by police or involved in an accident, your insurance could be void.

Need a JAF Translation? We Can Help.

JDTLC provides a fully online JAF translation service. Upload your license, pay online, and we'll handle the rest — including delivery to your address in Japan or abroad.

---