JAF License Translation: Complete Guide for Foreigners Driving in Japan

What Is a JAF License Translation?

A JAF license translation (正式名称: 外国運転免許証の日本語翻訳文) is an official Japanese-language document that translates the key information on your foreign driver's license — your name, date of birth, license number, categories, and validity dates — into Japanese.

It is issued by the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF), Japan's national automobile association (similar to AAA in the US, ADAC in Germany, or TCS in Switzerland). The JAF is the only organization authorized by the Japanese government to issue these translations under the Road Traffic Act (道路交通法 Article 107-2).

The translation is not a new license — it is a certified companion document to your existing driver's license that allows Japanese authorities and rental car companies to verify your driving credentials.

Who Needs a JAF Translation?

Japan has a specific rule: drivers from countries that signed the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic (instead of the 1949 Geneva Convention) cannot use an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Japan. These six countries are:

Country	Convention	IDP Valid in Japan?	JAF Translation Required?
🇨🇭 Switzerland	Vienna 1968	❌ No	✅ Yes
🇩🇪 Germany	Vienna 1968	❌ No	✅ Yes
🇫🇷 France	Vienna 1968	❌ No	✅ Yes
🇧🇪 Belgium	Vienna 1968	❌ No	✅ Yes
🇲🇨 Monaco	Vienna 1968	❌ No	✅ Yes
🇹🇼 Taiwan	Bilateral agreement	❌ No	✅ Yes

Important: If your license was issued by the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, or most other countries, you need a standard International Driving Permit — not a JAF translation. Check with your local automobile association for IDP requirements.

Even if you hold dual citizenship or multiple licenses, only the license you present to authorities matters. If you present a Swiss license, you need the JAF translation — regardless of any other licenses you may hold.

How to Get a JAF Translation

There are two ways to obtain your JAF license translation:

Option 1: Apply at a JAF Office in Japan

• Where: Any JAF branch office in Japan (locations in most major cities)
• Cost: ¥6,000 (approximately €25 / CHF 25)
• Processing time: 2–3 weeks (some offices may take longer)
• What you need: Your original license + passport
• Limitation: You must be physically in Japan to apply

This is the most affordable option, but it requires you to visit a JAF office after arriving in Japan — and you'll need to wait 2–3 weeks before you can drive.

Option 2: Apply Online Through JDLTC

• Where: Online at drive-japan-license.com/apply
• Cost: From €99 (limited-time offer, normally €129)
• Processing time: Standard 3–4 weeks / Express 2–3 weeks / Rush ~1 week
• What you need: Clear photos of both sides of your license
• Advantage: Apply from home before your trip — no JAF office visit needed

JDLTC handles the entire process for you. We submit your translation request in Japan on your behalf, and deliver the completed document as a PDF by email. You can also request the original document to be mailed to your hotel in Japan.

Cost Comparison at a Glance

	JAF Office (in Japan)	JDLTC (Online)
Cost	¥6,000 (~€25)	From €99
Apply from abroad?	❌ No — must visit in person	✅ Yes — 100% online
Processing time	2–3 weeks	1–4 weeks (depends on plan)
Language support	Japanese only	EN / DE / FR / 中文
Delivery method	Pick up at office	PDF by email + optional mail
Best for	Long-stay visitors already in Japan	Planning from home before your trip

Step-by-Step: How the JDLTC Process Works

1. Select your country. Choose the country that issued your driver's license (Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco, or Taiwan).
2. Upload your license. Take clear photos of the front and back of your valid license. Make sure all text and your photo are clearly visible.
3. Fill in your details. Enter your name, date of birth, email, and license information exactly as it appears on your license.
4. Choose your processing speed. Standard (3–4 weeks), Express (2–3 weeks), or Rush (approximately 1 week).
5. Pay securely. Payment is processed via Stripe. Your card details never touch our servers.
6. Receive your translation. Your completed translation is delivered as a PDF by email. Print it in color on A4 paper before driving.

Pro tip: Apply at least 1 month before your trip to allow enough processing time. If your trip is less than 2 weeks away, choose the Rush option.

What Does the Translation Look Like?

The JAF license translation is a formal document that includes:

• Your full name (in Japanese katakana and original script)
• Date of birth
• License number
• Categories of vehicles you are authorized to drive
• Issue date and expiry date of your original license
• Country of issuance
• Official stamps and certification marks

You must print it in color on standard A4 paper. Digital copies on your phone are not accepted by police or rental car companies.

How Long Is It Valid?

The JAF translation allows you to drive in Japan for up to 1 year from your date of entry into Japan. Key points:

• The 1-year period starts from the date stamped on your passport when you enter Japan
• If you leave Japan and re-enter, the 1-year period resets from your new entry date
• The same translation document can be reused for multiple trips, as long as your original license remains valid
• Your original license must be unexpired — if your license expires during your stay, you cannot drive

Using Your Translation at Rental Car Companies

Every major rental car company in Japan accepts the JAF translation. When picking up your vehicle, you will need to present:

1. Your original driver's license (the physical card from your home country)
2. Your printed JAF translation (color print on A4 paper)
3. Your passport (to verify your entry date into Japan)

Accepted by all major agencies including Toyota Rent a Car, Nippon Rent-A-Car, Times Car Rental, ORIX, Budget, and all others.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I drive in Japan with just my foreign license?
A: No. You need either a valid IDP (for most countries) or a JAF translation (for Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco, and Taiwan). Driving without proper documentation is illegal and your insurance will be void.

Q: What if I lose my translation while in Japan?
A: If you applied through JDLTC, you can reprint the PDF from your email at any convenience store in Japan (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart all have color printing services). If you applied at a JAF office, you will need to visit again to request a replacement.

Q: I have a Swiss license but I'm German — which country do I choose?
A: Choose the country that issued your license, not your nationality. If your license was issued by Switzerland, choose Switzerland.

Q: Can I rent a car at the airport as soon as I arrive?
A: Yes — if you already have your JAF translation from JDLTC printed and ready. If you plan to apply at a JAF office, you'll need to wait 2–3 weeks for processing before you can rent a car.

Q: Is the JAF translation accepted by police during traffic stops?
A: Yes. The JAF translation is the legally recognized document under Japan's Road Traffic Act. Police officers will verify your original license alongside the translation.

Q: Do I need a separate translation for each trip to Japan?
A: No. The same translation can be used for multiple trips, as long as your original license remains valid (unexpired). The 1-year driving validity resets each time you enter Japan.