Australian Embassy, Tokyo

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Driving

We cannot issue you with an Australian or Japanese licence at the Embassy or our Consulates and we do not do translations of Australian licences.

Driving in Japan

To drive in Japan you must hold either:

  • a valid Japanese licence or;
  • a valid international driver's permit in conjunction with a current Australian state driver's licence.

An International Driver's Permit is not a licence, you must also hold a valid Australian licence.

You can only use the International Driver's Permit in Japan for a maximum period of 365 days from the date of your first arrival in Japan (as shown in your passport).

If you want to keep driving in Japan beyond this, you must exchange the International Driver's Permit for a Japanese licence before the International Driver's Permit expires.

More information about Driving in Japan

Driving in Australia

Laws and driving regulations differ from state to state.

Some states require you to carry an International Licence with your current foreign licence. Other states request you carry your current foreign driver's licence together with a formal translation of your licence into English.