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Japan · IDP required

Which Side of the Road in Japan?

Japan drives on the left — and you need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

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Frequently asked questions

Which side of the road does Japan drive on?

Japan drives on the left-hand side of the road.

Do I need an International Driving Permit for Japan?

Yes — Japan requires an International Driving Permit alongside your US license to drive legally. Japan requires an International Driving Permit (1949 Geneva Convention format) for most US visitors — a US license alone is not valid for driving.

Where do I get an International Driving Permit before I travel?

In the US, an IDP is issued by AAA or the National Auto Club — it costs around $20, requires a passport photo, and can't be obtained after you've already left the country.

Is an IDP a license by itself?

No — an IDP is a translation document, not a standalone license. You must carry your regular US driver's license alongside it at all times.