Japan to Tighten Foreign License Conversion Rules from October

Japan’s National Police Agency unveiled stricter rules, effective October 1, for converting foreign driver’s licenses to Japanese ones. Applicants will be required to submit a residence certificate, banning tourists using hotel addresses. The knowledge test will increase to 50 questions with a 90% pass threshold, while practical exams will include complex tasks like railroad crossings. These changes follow high-profile accidents involving converted-license holders and aim to ensure better understanding of traffic laws. Exceptions include diplomats, U.S. military personnel, and pro drivers. The NPA reviewed systems in 15 countries to inform these reforms.