Requirements

Japan has strict traffic laws regarding driver requirements. For local Japanese customers, a valid Japanese driver’s license is mandatory. For foreign customers, you must possess specific documents on the day of the tour. You will also need to submit copies of these documents in advance for screening.

For US Military personnel, SOFA license is accepted, you must present all original copies.

You MUST bring the original copies of all required documents on the day of the tour. If you fail to present the originals upon arrival, you will NOT be allowed to participate in the tour, and no refund will be provided.

Please refer to the general requirements listed below.

Please also click here to check if your country's driving license may require special attention to license requirements to drive in Japan.

Passport

You must present the same passport you used to enter Japan. This passport must be current and valid for the duration of your stay in Japan. It should match the details on all other identification documents you present.

Your passport must show a valid stamp which shows your date of arrival in Japan. If you are a foreign resident living in Japan, please check with the Japanese Police Department for the validity of your International Driving Permit.

Local Driving License

A valid driving license from your home country (the country that issued your passport) is required. This license must be current, fully valid, and without any restrictions that could affect your ability to drive. Ensure it is not expired and reflects your current information as this will be cross-referenced with your International Driving Permit.

International Driving Permit

An International Driving Permit issued by a country that is a signatory to the 1949 Geneva Convention is required. Please note that the International Driving Permit is only valid for one year from the date of issuance. Ensure that your permit is valid on the date of the tour.

Credit Card

You will need to present a valid credit card (Visa/Master/AMEX) on the day of arrival. A credit card consent form will be signed to authorize Drivers Lounge to charge the insurance excess and other liabilities as below:

Damage excess to the vehicle JPY 100,000
Third party liability excess JPY 100,000
Non Operation Charge JPY 50,000 (if the vehicle can still be driven) / JPY 100,000 (if the vehicle cannot be driven)
Any traffic violation with a JPY 20,000 surcharge