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Can 17 year olds drive in Japan?

1. Introduction

Driving in Japan is an exciting experience, made all the more so by the unique rules and regulations that govern the roads of this country. For those wondering if 17 year olds can drive in Japan, there are a few things to consider. In this article, we will explore the laws regulating driving in Japan, age requirements for driving, international driver’s license requirements, insurance requirements for young drivers, and other considerations for young drivers in Japan.

2. Laws Regulating Driving in Japan

In Japan, the rules and regulations governing driving are set out by the Road Traffic Law (RTA) and enforced by local police forces. The RTA states that anyone wishing to operate a motor vehicle must have a valid driver’s license issued by the Japanese government or an international driver’s license recognized by the government. Furthermore, drivers must be at least 18 years of age to obtain a driver’s license in Japan.

Japanese Snack Box

3. Age Requirements for Driving in Japan

According to Japanese law, anyone wishing to drive on public roads must be at least 18 years of age and possess a valid driver’s license issued by the Japanese government or an international driver’s license recognized by the government. This means that 17 year olds cannot legally drive on public roads in Japan without first obtaining a valid license from either source.

4. International Driver’s License Requirements

In addition to possessing a valid Japanese driver’s license or an international driver’s license recognized by the Japanese government, all drivers must also follow certain rules while operating vehicles on public roads in Japan. These include obeying speed limits and traffic signs as well as using headlights at night and wearing seatbelts while driving or riding as passengers in vehicles.

5. Can 17 Year Olds Drive in Japan?

Unfortunately, 17 year olds cannot legally drive on public roads in Japan without first obtaining a valid driver’s license from either source mentioned above (Japanese government or an international driver’s license). This is due to age restrictions set forth by Japanese law which require drivers be at least 18 years of age before they can obtain a valid driver’s license from either source mentioned above (Japanese government or an international driver’s license).

6. Insurance Requirements for Drivers Under 20 Years of Age

In addition to having a valid driver’s license from either source mentioned above (Japanese government or an international driver’s license), all drivers under 20 years of age must also have their own third-party liability insurance policy before they are allowed to drive on public roads in Japan. This policy covers any damage caused to property or people due to negligence while operating vehicles on public roads within Japanese borders.

7 Other Considerations for Young Drivers in Japan

In addition to having their own third-party liability insurance policy before they are allowed to drive on public roads within Japanese borders, young drivers should also pay attention to certain safety regulations such as wearing helmets while riding motorcycles and bicycles as well as avoiding alcohol consumption when operating motor vehicles on public roads within Japanese borders.

8 Conclusion


To sum up, 17 year olds cannot legally drive on public roads within Japanese borders without first obtaining a valid driver’s licence from either source mentioned above (Japanese government or an international driver’s licence). In addition to possessing such licences, young drivers should also pay attention to certain safety regulations such as wearing helmets while riding motorcycles and bicycles as well as avoiding alcohol consumption when operating motor vehicles on public roads within Japanese borders.

9 FAQS About Driving In japan As A 17 Year Old


Q: Can I get my own car insurance if I am under 20 years old?
A: Yes you can get your own car insurance if you are under 20 years old but you will need your parent/guardian consent if you are under 18 years old according to most insurers policies.

Q: Do I need an International Driver’s License?
A: Yes you will need an International Driver’s License if you wish to operate motor vehicles on public roads within Japanese borders.

Can you drive at 17 in Japan?

The minimum driving age is 18. Drunk driving is prohibited. Road signs and rules follow international standards and most signs on major roads are in Japanese and English.

What is the youngest age to drive in Japan?

The legal driving age in Japan is 18 years for cars and 16 years for motorcycles (except heavy motorcycles).

Can high schoolers drive in Japan?

Japanese high school students do not drive to school. Many people walk or run if there is not much space. At other times students have to take public buses and trains that change routes frequently to get to their destinations.

Can I drive in Japan with a US license?

Americans cannot drive in Japan with only a US drivers license. Anyone found driving without a valid license in Japan faces fines arrest and possible deportation. The International Driving License will not replace the Japanese Driving License in the medium and long term.

Can a 16 year old American drive in Japan?

The driving age in Japan is 18 not 16 which means that even if you are legal in the US you cannot drive in Japan until you are 18. However many car rental companies will have different restrictions and costs for new drivers.

Can u drive at 16 in Korea?

Driving licenses for cars and motorcycles in South Korea can be obtained at the age of 18. South Korea is one of the few countries that allows 16-year-olds to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP). This was made possible by a 2009 South Korean law that made it mandatory for military cadets to drive.

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