Driving in Japan as a United States National

Japan drives on the left with strict traffic laws, excellent road conditions, and an extensive toll highway system. An International Driving Permit is required.

Key Things to Know First

IDP Required

Japan requires an International Driving Permit for foreign visitors. Obtain one in United States before departure.

How to get an IDP

Drive on the Left — You Are Switching Sides

United States drives on the right, but Japan drives on the left. Extra caution required at roundabouts, intersections, and after exits.

Tips for switching sides

Speed Signs Use km/h

United States uses mph, but Japan uses km/h. Verify your GPS or navigation app is set to the correct unit.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Rule	United States	Japan	Change?
Traffic side	Right-hand traffic	Left-hand traffic	Yes
Speed unit	mph	km/h	Yes
IDP required	—	Yes	Yes
Min. driving age	16	18	Differs
Emergency number	911	110	Different
Road difficulty	Easy	Moderate	—

Speed Limits in Japan

Urban

30–40 km/h

Rural / Open road

50–60 km/h

Highway / Motorway

100–120 km/h

Speed limits in Japan are posted in km/h (kilometres per hour). Quick reference: 50 km/h ≈ 31 mph · 100 km/h ≈ 62 mph · 130 km/h ≈ 81 mph.

Documents to Carry in Japan

Original driving licence from United States — must be valid and unexpired
International Driving Permit (IDP) — required in Japan. Obtain from your national motoring association before travelling.
Passport or national ID — carry at all times while driving
Car insurance certificate — verify it covers Japan before departure
Vehicle registration / rental agreement

Emergency Number in Japan

110

Primary emergency number in Japan. Save it before you drive.

Emergency numbers for all countries

Full Japan Driving Guide

Road rules, toll system, fuel types, parking, regional quirks — everything you need for driving in Japan.

Read the complete guide