Japan Driving LicenseGuides & Practice
Home › Guides › JAF Driving Licence Translation: 2026 Application Guide

JAF Driving Licence Translation: 2026 Application Guide

JAF applications are online. Choose the correct purpose—driving temporarily or converting to a Japanese licence—because the fee and document use can differ.

DocumentsUpdated July 17, 20268 min read
Quick answerJAF accepts driving-licence translation applications online rather than at counters or by post. From July 1, 2026, a Japanese translation intended for conversion to a Japanese licence costs ¥6,600 including tax, plus the stated printing fee where applicable.

Choose the correct purpose

JAF's online system distinguishes between a translation used to drive temporarily with certain eligible foreign licences and a translation used for conversion to a Japanese licence. Select the conversion purpose when applying for gaimen kirikae.

A translation does not make every foreign licence valid for temporary driving in Japan. Temporary driving with a foreign licence and translation is limited to the countries and region recognised by Japanese law.

Current fee and processing estimate

UseJAF information reviewed July 2026
Translation for Japanese licence conversion¥6,600 including 10% consumption tax
PrintingJAF lists a small per-page printing fee
Typical processingAbout 2–3 business days for certain listed licences; about 5–10 business days for many others

Processing is an estimate rather than a guarantee. Incomplete or country-specific documents can extend the timeline.

How to apply online

  1. Open JAF's driving-licence translation application page.
  2. Read the eligibility and country-specific document notes.
  3. Select a Japanese translation and choose the licence-conversion purpose.
  4. Upload clear, unmodified images of the front and back of the valid licence.
  5. Upload any additional documents required for your issuing country.
  6. Pay using an available method.
  7. Follow the instructions to obtain and print the issued translation.

Examples of additional documents

JAF publishes examples of extra records for certain licences. These may include an official receipt or issuing-authority certificate, a licence subpage, proof of residence in Japan, or embassy documentation. Read the current country-specific instructions in the online application rather than assuming the front and back of the card are enough.

Will the licence centre accept it?

JAF is one of the organisations designated to prepare translations. However, the translation is only one part of the conversion file. The licence centre still decides whether the foreign licence, issue history, stay evidence and other documents satisfy the procedure.

Keep every file. Save the payment receipt, uploaded images and issued translation until the Japanese licence has been completed.

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply at a JAF counter?

JAF states that applications are accepted online; counter and postal applications ended.

Can I apply from outside Japan?

JAF provides different information depending on the purpose and applicant location. A Japanese translation for conversion is tied to procedures in Japan, so follow the current online instructions.

Does the translation expire?

The translation is linked to the licence information. If the licence changes, renews or expires, ask the licence centre and JAF whether a new translation is required.

Does paying JAF guarantee conversion?

No. The prefectural police separately reviews eligibility, stay history and all supporting documents.

Official and supporting sources

Information was reviewed on July 17, 2026. Procedures, fees, languages and booking systems can vary by prefecture. Confirm details with the police authority responsible for your registered address before travelling.