Welp, yeah….seems like I lost my IDP. Anyone ever found themselves in this boat? Pretty sure they can’t replace it, it needs to be in person I believe.
Sigh, coming to terms with a whole year of no car. I know I can get a Japanese Drivers license, but I am hardly N5 and right now my spirits are crushed. Haha.
5 comments
I wouldn’t throw in the towel so quick. As long as you have a license from your home country you should be able to take a test and transfer to a Japanese license without having to go through classes (results may vary based on your country of origin).
Even if your Japanese is bad – you just need a person from your CO or a friend who can more or less translate for you for one day with the paperwork. Ask around and offer to buy them lunch and dinner for the trouble. The behind the wheel test itself doesn’t require Japanese ability, and the written portion can be taken in English.
Where are you from? I’m from the UK and currently in the process of transferring my licence. No actual test needed, just got a translation and an appointment to show my documents. The document list varies by country/state, but I believe the IDP is something you need to bring. Hope you manage to sort it!
Edit: If you’re planning a trip home at some point, get another IDP? Winter break isn’t so far away…
On the plus side, only 50% of Japanese people drive, as there is a great train sytem and most small cities have a solid bus system. Of course, if you are assigned to the hinterlands of Okayama, then the public transit isn’t a great option, but if not extreme countryside, you will be fine without vehichle while you go through the process of getting a new license.
Fam, not to be that guy, but just Google it lol
https://www.aaa.com/vacation/idpf.html
> Already Overseas?
If you are currently overseas you can mail your completed application to the following office and address:
> AAA/IDP
1000 AAA Drive
Heathrow, FL 32746
Attn: Mail Stop #28
> Please allow 5-7 weeks for return mail.
Due to the recent change in U.S. Customs law impacting USPS Express International mail, FedEx* will be used to most countries. Go to FedEx.com for additional charges. Please provide a street address for delivery, and expect delivery up to 10 business days after IDP is processed.
1. You do not have to speak Japanese to get a Japanese license. You may need to ask a friend for assistance during some parts of the process, but the actual knowledge test can be taken in multiple languages.
2. Depending on the country (or state, Hawaii, Washington, Ohio, Virginia, Maryland) you are from you may be exempt from the practical and knowledge test and can transfer your license more easily.