Cars & drivers · Our pick in Tokyo

Driving in Japan

The rules·Japan

Bring the right permit

Japan drives on the left; visitors need an International Driving Permit of the right convention, and there is zero tolerance of drink-driving.

Our take

  • 1949 permit
  • Drive on the left
  • Zero alcohol
Address
Japan, Tokyo

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About Driving in Japan

Japan drives on the left. Visitors from the UK need an International Driving Permit issued under the 1949 Convention, carried with their licence (GOV.UK). Japan has a zero-tolerance policy on drinking and driving.

Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Driving in Japan before you go.

Last checked: October 2026 How we choose

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