Japan
Italy
Driving in Italy as a Japan National
Italy offers thrilling drives along the Amalfi Coast and through Tuscany, but ZTL restricted zones, aggressive city driving, and complex parking make it challenging for visitors.
Key Things to Know First
IDP Required
Italy requires an International Driving Permit for foreign visitors. Obtain one in Japan before departure.
How to get an IDP
Drive on the Right — You Are Switching Sides
Japan drives on the left, but Italy drives on the right. Extra caution required at roundabouts, intersections, and after exits.
Tips for switching sidesSide-by-Side Comparison
| Rule | Japan | Italy | Change? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traffic side | Left-hand traffic | Right-hand traffic | Yes |
| Speed unit | km/h | km/h | Same |
| IDP required | — | Yes | Yes |
| Min. driving age | 18 | 18 | Same |
| Emergency number | 110 | 112 | Different |
| Road difficulty | Moderate | Challenging | — |
Speed Limits in Italy
Urban
50 km/h
Rural / Open road
90 km/h
Highway / Motorway
130 km/h
Documents to Carry in Italy
- Original driving licence from Japan — must be valid and unexpired
- International Driving Permit (IDP) — required in Italy. Obtain from your national motoring association before travelling.
- Passport or national ID — carry at all times while driving
- Car insurance certificate — verify it covers Italy before departure
- Vehicle registration / rental agreement
Emergency Number in Italy
112
112 is the pan-European emergency number, widely accepted across many countries worldwide.
Emergency numbers for all countriesFull Italy Driving Guide
Road rules, toll system, fuel types, parking, regional quirks — everything you need for driving in Italy.
Read the complete guide