Why is Japan toughening screening for foreign driver's license switching?
Question: What is the "license switching" system?
Answer: It is a system allowing individuals with driver's licenses obtained overseas to convert them into valid Japanese driver's licenses.
Q: Why are the rules becoming stricter?
A: The system allows foreigners visiting as tourists to apply for a Japanese license using temporary addresses at hotels or other short-term accommodations. In addition, critics said the existing knowledge tests were too easy. Authorities also took into account rising traffic accidents involving foreign drivers who had converted their licenses.
Q: Does this mean tourists can no longer convert their licenses?
A: Under the revised system, people staying in Japan for short periods for tourism will no longer be able to convert their foreign licenses, as applicants will need to provide a copy of their resident registration certificate which short-term visitors typically do not have.
Q: How will the written knowledge test change?
A: The written test will expand from the previous 10 questions with two-option answers each to a more comprehensive 50-question format. Questions will cover various provisions of Japan's Road Traffic Act, including prohibition of drunk driving and the meanings of road signs.
Q: What is the new passing criterion?
A: Applicants must correctly answer at least 90% of the questions, up from the current 70% requirement.
Q: Will the practical driving skills test also become tougher?
A: Yes. An additional criterion will check whether drivers properly yield to pedestrians at crosswalks. The practical skills evaluation will be brought up to the same strict standard as new license examinations.
Q: Are accidents involving foreign drivers increasing?
A: Accidents attributed to drivers without Japanese citizenship numbered 7,286 in 2024, up 8.3% from 2015. Authorities believe that the increase is related to the rise in visitors coming to Japan.
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