If you hold a driver's license from Belgium and plan to drive in Japan, there is a critical rule you must know: Japan does not accept International Driving Permits (IDPs) from Belgium. Instead, you are legally required to carry an official Japanese translation of your original license.
Key Requirements for Driving in Japan
Why is a Belgium IDP Not Valid?
Japan is a signatory to the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. However, Belgium issues International Driving Permits based on the 1968 Vienna Convention. Because Japan does not recognize the 1968 format, an IDP from Belgium holds no legal validity in Japan.
The Solution: Official Translation
To legally drive in Japan, citizens of Belgium must carry:
- Their original, valid Belgium driver's license.
- An official Japanese translation of that license (often referred to as a JAF translation).
- Their passport.
How to Get Your Translation Fast & Online
Traditionally, obtaining a translation meant visiting a physical office in Japan during weekday business hours. However, you can now apply online from anywhere in the world.
Using JDLTC (Japan Driving License Translation Clinic), you can submit your license photos via your smartphone and receive the official PDF translation directly to your email. You can then easily print it at any convenience store (like 7-Eleven) in Japan.
Required Documents for Online Application
- A clear, color photo of the front of your driver's license.
- A clear, color photo of the back of your driver's license.
- Your basic travel details and email address.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I rent a car immediately after printing the translation?
Yes. Once you have printed the official translation in color, it is legally valid. You can present it at the rental car counter along with your original license and passport.
Does the translation expire?
The translation is generally valid for as long as your original driver's license remains valid. However, you can only drive in Japan for up to one year from your date of entry.