Foreign License Conversion

Foreign License Conversion

If you hold a Chinese or other foreign license, you may be able to convert it to a Japanese license. Rules vary by license center, and issues often happen during documents, screening, or the driving test.

We support Chinese residents in Japan with full conversion help—from documents and screening booking to test-vehicle practice. Step-by-step guidance in Chinese.

What is Foreign License Conversion?

Foreign license conversion (外国免許切替) lets eligible foreign-license holders convert to a Japanese driver’s license in Japan.

Who is this for?

For Chinese license holders

For Hong Kong / Taiwan licenses

For other recognized countries/regions

How can Kakou help?

Full Chinese support

Same vehicle types as the test center

One-on-one lessons

Main process

Steps vary by prefecture, but the flow is generally the same.

Step 1

Consultation & eligibility check

We confirm your license issue date, validity, and issuing region to check eligibility.

Step 2

Documents & translation

Prepare your original license, passport, residence record/card, and an official translation (e.g., JAF).

Step 3

Book screening

Choose your license center, book screening, and confirm what to bring.

Step 4

Screening & written test

Screening may include simple questions. After approval, take the written test (Japanese; some areas offer Chinese questions).

Step 5

Practice before the driving test

Practice with test-type vehicles, learn routes and common deductions, and do mock tests.

Step 6

Driving test & license issuance

Take the skills test. After passing, complete photo/fees and receive your Japanese license.

If you failed before, we start from your current stage and build a plan—no need to restart everything.

Main documents you need for license conversion

These are typical requirements. Some areas may ask for extras—we’ll confirm during consultation.

Even if you’re missing documents, tell us your situation first. We’ll confirm what to add next to avoid wasted trips.

Why practice with Kakou?

Many drivers lose points on Japan-specific rules and small habits—not basic driving skills.

Same test vehicles · 7 cars

Practice with AT, MT, and semi-medium vehicles. Get used to size and blind spots so test day feels familiar.

Deduction points explained in Chinese

We explain checks, signal timing, stopping position, and more—what to do and how to avoid deductions.

1-on-1 booking · Train for your test center

1-on-1 by appointment with flexible scheduling. We tailor practice to your test center, including routes and mock tests.

Fee reference

Fees depend on your level, test center, and required hours. Below is a general range. For details, request a quote.

Basic package example

Reference fee: from about JPY 140,000 (tax included)

Actual fees depend on test center, vehicle type, and hours.

Customized intensive plans

After we review your case, we provide a tailored plan with hours and fees in writing.

License center fees, translation fees, and resident record fees are paid separately.

We provide a clear cost breakdown before enrollment—no surprises.

License conversion FAQ

In principle, the license should be valid, but rules vary. Tell us your status early—we’ll confirm with the license center.

We can accompany you in Chinese on screening day. For the driving test, we simulate and explain examiner commands during practice.

Many don’t pass the first time. We analyze deductions, focus on weak points, and adjust training for the next try.

It depends on bookings, license center schedule, your availability, and results. Usually several weeks to a few months. We’ll draft a rough timeline in consultation.

First confirm eligibility and steps

Share your issuing region, issue date, and time in Japan—we’ll assess eligibility.

No need to enroll right away—understand the rules and estimated costs first.

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