Hi folk,
The official page for foreign license conversion is currently down: [https://www.keishicho.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/multilingual/english/traffic\_safety/drivers\_licenses/index.files/convert\_license\_english.pdf](https://www.keishicho.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/multilingual/english/traffic_safety/drivers_licenses/index.files/convert_license_english.pdf)
Does anyone know if a JAF translation is needed for English licenses, or if English licenses are accepted? I am asking because I don’t recall needing a translation when I first read the PDF, but now that it is down I can’t remember.
Also if anyone has experienced multiple centers, especially Shinjuku vs. Shinagawa, let me know if one is faster or more hassle free in your experience.
4 comments
You need a translation by JAF or the other official company, even if the license is in English.
The Shinjuku license center is much easier to get to for most people in Tokyo, as it’s right at Tochomae on the Oedo Line (in the Tokyo Metropolitan Government complex). Shinagawa is a long walk from Samezu on the Keikyu line. However, if you choose Shinjuku, make sure your license is eligible to be converted there. Not all licenses are.
I converted my driving license earlier this week at the Koto Driving License Center. The closest station is Toyocho on the Tozai Line.
Went at 13:00 (when the counter reopened after lunch break) and got out by 15:30 with a Japanese license. There were only a couple of other people looking to get license conversions.
The longest wait was for the license itself to be printed as there were many new drivers getting their newly issued licenses.
Yes, because English isn’t the national language of Japan.
God, I wish I could just convert my US license to a Japan one this easily.