Yes. Italian licence holders can drive in Japan with an international driving permit of the "Ginevra 1949" model, for up to a year from the day they enter the country. The Italian Consulate General in Osaka sets this out on its website, and says it has applied since 1 December 2013. The permit must be the 1949 model. Italy also issues a 1968 model, and Japan doesn't recognise that one.
Where do I apply?
At the Motorizzazione Civile office for your province. Say which model you need when you apply: the Geneva 1949 permit, for Japan.
Why are there two Italian permits?
Italy is a party to both road traffic conventions. It ratified the 1949 Geneva Convention in 1952 and the 1968 Vienna Convention in 1996, according to the UN treaty records. Japan only joined the first, so only a permit issued under it counts here.
What do I need to carry?
Your Italian licence, the 1949 permit and your passport. The permit is valid only with the licence, and the consulate is clear that it covers only the vehicle categories shown on it.
What's the hardest part of driving in Japan?
For most drivers from mainland Europe, it's keeping left. The wheel is on the right, so plan a slow first hour somewhere quiet. After that come the expressway tolls, which we explain in paying tolls without an ETC card, and parking rules in towns.
Where would we send you?
We live in Fukuoka on Kyushu and rent campervans under the name VAN TRIP JAPAN. The note at the end of this page has our suggestion.
Checked against the Consolato Generale d'Italia a Osaka page on driving licences, the UN Treaty Collection (1949 and 1968 road traffic conventions) and Japan's National Police Agency guidance in September 2026. Karen and Doko Shibagaki, Camjyo Inc., Fukuoka.
