Thinking about hitting the open road in Japan? Renting a car can be one of the best ways to explore beyond the cities and into the countryside, from Hokkaido’s endless fields to Okinawa’s tropical beaches. But if you’ve done a quick search online, you may have stumbled upon confusing information about new rules or stricter requirements for foreign drivers.
So, what’s the truth? Can tourists still rent cars in Japan with just an international driving permit? Are stricter rules coming in 2025?
This guide breaks everything down clearly, from the documents you’ll need, to how the rental process works, to what’s really changing (and what isn’t). Plus, we’ll share insider tips to make your road trip smoother, cheaper, and stress-free.
Why Renting a Car in Japan is Worth It
Japan’s trains are famous for being fast and reliable, and for good reason. But there are countless places you simply can’t reach easily without a car. Picture winding mountain roads leading to secret onsen, coastal highways with ocean views, or quiet villages with hidden shrines.
Renting a car gives you:
- Freedom: Set your own schedule and stop whenever something catches your eye.
- Convenience: Especially useful if you’re traveling with family, friends, or heavy luggage.
- Value for groups: Splitting the cost of a car often makes it cheaper than multiple train tickets.
Whether it’s a ski trip in Hokkaido, a beach holiday in Okinawa, or a countryside road trip in Kyushu, having a car turns your trip into an adventure.
Documents and Requirements for Renting a Car in Japan
Before you get behind the wheel in Japan, make sure you have the right paperwork. Rental companies are very strict, and if you’re missing even one document, they won’t hand over the keys. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Tourists must have an International Driving Permit (IDP) based on the 1949 Geneva Convention.
- Be careful: IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention are not valid in Japan.
- You must get your IDP before arriving in Japan, from your home country’s driving authority or automobile association.
2. National License + Official Translation (for some countries)
If you’re from France, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Monaco, or Taiwan, you can drive in Japan with your home license but only if you bring an official Japanese translation.
- This translation must be issued by the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) or an official service.
- Copies or unofficial translations aren’t accepted.
3. Passport
Always carry your passport with a valid entry stamp when driving in Japan. Rental companies will check it when you pick up your car.
4. Credit Card
Most agencies require a credit card in the driver’s name for the deposit. Debit cards are rarely accepted.
5. Age Requirements
- The legal driving age in Japan is 18.
- Some rental companies set their own minimum age, usually 20–22 years old.
- Drivers under 25 may have to pay an additional “young driver fee.”
6. Insurance
Basic coverage (usually liability insurance) is included in the rental price. But for peace of mind, most travelers add optional protection like:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Covers damage to the rental car.
- Non-Operation Charge (NOC): Protects you from paying extra fees if the car needs repairs and can’t be rented out.
How to Rent a Car in Japan: Step by Step
Once you’ve got your documents ready, renting a car in Japan is a smooth process. Here’s exactly what to expect:
1. Book Your Car
- The easiest way is to book online in advance, especially during holidays like Golden Week, Obon, or New Year when cars sell out quickly.
- Major companies include Toyota Rent-a-Car, Nippon Rent-A-Car, Times, Orix, and Budget or even Booking. Many of their websites have English booking options.
2. Pick Up the Car
- When you arrive, staff will check your IDP (or translated license), passport, and credit card.
- You’ll sign the rental agreement, review insurance options, and get an introduction to the car.
- Always inspect the vehicle and note any scratches or damage before driving off.
3. On the Road
Driving in Japan is a little different, so keep these in mind:
- Left-hand traffic: Japan drives on the left side of the road.
- Speed limits: Lower than in many countries (usually 40–60 km/h in towns, 80–100 km/h on highways).
- ETC cards: These are prepaid toll cards for expressways. Many rentals come with one — super useful if you’re planning a road trip.
- Navigation: Cars often have built-in GPS systems, and most can switch to English.
4. Returning the Car
- Refill the gas tank before drop-off, unless you’ve pre-paid for fuel.
- Staff will do a quick check of the car’s condition.
- Settle any remaining charges (like tolls or extra hours).
Pro tip: If you’re flying, many airports have convenient drop-off points. Some rental companies even allow one-way rentals, so you can pick up in Tokyo and drop off in Osaka.
Are Car Rental Rules in Japan Changing in 2025?
If you’ve read posts online or scrolled through travel forums, you may have seen alarming claims: “From October 2025, foreigners will need to take a written and practical driving test to rent a car in Japan.”
Sounds stressful, right? Luckily, here’s the truth:
What the Rumor Says
- Starting October 1, 2025, tourists would supposedly need to pass a 90% written exam and a practical driving test before being allowed to rent a car.
The Reality
- These proposed changes relate to foreign residents converting their license into a Japanese license, not short-term visitors renting cars.
- Tourists with an International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention (or a home license + JAF translation for certain countries) can still rent cars as usual.
- As of now, no official announcement has been made by Japanese authorities about stricter requirements for tourists.
What You Should Do
- Don’t panic — just make sure you bring the correct documents (IDP or license + translation).
- Follow updates from reliable sources like the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) or Japan’s official tourism websites before your trip.
👉 Bottom line: Tourists can still rent cars in Japan in 2025 the same way they always have.
Why Renting a Car in Japan Is Worth It
Japan is famous for its trains, the shinkansen alone is a bucket-list experience. But if you only rely on public transport, you’ll miss out on some of the country’s best-kept secrets. That’s where renting a car makes all the difference.
Go Beyond the Cities
With a car, you can reach places that are difficult, or impossible, to get to by train or bus. Think:
- Hokkaido’s flower fields in summer or snowy ski resorts in winter.
- Okinawa’s beaches, caves, and island drives with turquoise ocean views.
- Rural Kyushu and Shikoku, full of hidden onsens, quiet temples, and mountain roads.
Freedom and Flexibility
You’re no longer tied to train schedules. Want to stop at a roadside ramen shop? Or take a detour to a coastal viewpoint? With a rental car, you’re in control.
Comfort and Convenience
Traveling with luggage, kids, or in a group? A car is often more comfortable than squeezing into a crowded train. Plus, it saves the hassle of carrying bags through multiple transfers.
Value for Groups
While solo travelers might find trains cheaper, renting a car becomes cost-effective when shared between two to four people, especially for long trips.
Practical Tips for Renting a Car in Japan
Even if it’s your first time renting in Japan, a little preparation makes the whole process smooth. Here are some tips that will save you time, money, and stress:
1. Book in Advance
Rental cars, especially compact ones, get fully booked during peak travel seasons like Golden Week (late April–early May), Obon (mid-August), and New Year. Booking early guarantees better prices and availability.
2. Choose a Compact Car
Japanese roads can be narrow, especially in rural towns. A small car makes parking easier and helps you feel more confident on tight streets.
3. Request an ETC Card
Highways in Japan use Electronic Toll Collection (ETC). With an ETC card, you can breeze through toll gates without stopping to pay. It’s a must if you’re planning long drives.
4. Check the GPS Language
Most rental cars have built-in GPS, and many allow you to switch to English menus. Confirm this at pickup to avoid getting stuck with Japanese-only navigation.
5. Fuel Policy
Most companies expect you to return the car with a full tank. Keep your last gas station receipt as proof, some companies ask for it.
6. Drive Safely and Legally
- Always drive on the left side of the road.
- Seatbelts are required for everyone.
- Drunk driving laws are zero tolerance — even one drink is too many.
- Speed limits are lower than you might expect, so watch the signs.
Final Thoughts
Renting a car in Japan is one of the best ways to explore the country at your own pace. From scenic coastal roads to hidden mountain onsens, having your own set of wheels gives you the freedom and flexibility that trains can’t.
The rules for tourists are still straightforward: just bring the right documents, drive responsibly, and enjoy the journey.
So if you’ve ever dreamed of a Japan road trip, 2025 is a great year to make it happen. 🚗✨
Love what you are reading? Come to Japan on an exciting study-abroad journey!
If you love Japanese culture, why not study Japanese in Japan? Coto is excited to announce that we’re offering a matching service to help students find a Japanese language school that provides student visas.
So if you want to come to Japan, let us help you! We provide free support, no agent fee! Our goal is to help make your dream of moving to Japan come true. Find a language school today and contact us!
FAQ
Will new rules in October 2025 make it harder for tourists to rent a car in Japan?
No. The rumored changes apply to foreign residents converting their license into a Japanese one, not short-term visitors. Tourists with a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) or license + official translation can still rent cars as usual.
What documents do I need to rent a car in Japan?
You’ll need:
- A credit card in your name.
- An IDP under the 1949 Geneva Convention, or your home license + JAF translation (for certain countries).
- Your passport with a valid entry stamp.
What’s the minimum age to rent a car in Japan?
The legal driving age is 18, but most rental companies require you to be 20–22 years old. Drivers under 25 may face additional fees.
Is driving in Japan difficult for foreigners?
Not at all! Roads are well maintained, signs often include English, and navigation systems are reliable. The main difference is driving on the left-hand side.
Can I rent a car one-way (pick up in one city, drop off in another)?
Yes, many rental companies allow one-way rentals, especially between major airports and cities. Extra fees may apply.
