Can I drive in Japan with a United States driving licence?

Yes. If your licence is from United States, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in United States under the 1949 Geneva Convention. You can drive for one year from the day you enter Japan, or until your IDP or licence expires, whichever comes first.

What you need

International Driving Permit (1949 Geneva Convention)

Issued by

American Automobile Association (AAA) or American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), authorized by the U.S. Department of State

How long you can drive

One year from the day you enter Japan, or until the document expires — whichever comes first

Notes

In the United States, AAA and AATA are the two organisations authorised by the Department of State to issue IDPs.

An IDP issued under any other treaty, such as the 1968 Vienna Convention, is not valid in Japan. Check that your IDP shows the 1949 Geneva Convention.

Before you book a rental car

1. Apply for an IDP in your home country or region before you travel, and check that it shows the 1949 Geneva Convention.
2. Make sure the IDP and your licence will still be valid on every day you plan to drive.
3. Check the rental company’s own requirements when you book. Rental offices check your documents at pick-up.

Read the full guide: Can I drive in Japan with my licence? IDP and translation rules