Driving without a license may also void your insurance coverage. Persons using an international drivers license who are resident in Japan can be subject to fines or arrest. “Residents” are expected to convert or obtain a Japanese drivers license. You cannot obtain an International Driving Permit at the Embassy. “International Driving Permits” are not a medium-to-long term substitute for a Japanese driver’s license.
Persons found driving in Japan without a legal license are subject to fines, arrest and possible deportation. Americans cannot drive in Japan with only a U.S.
