Useful tips for living in Japan

Obtaining a Japanese Driver's License

THE LOCAL JAPANESE POLICE usually exercises discretionary powers in regard to the use of international driver's license. In some prefectures, international driver's licenses are allowed only to those whose residency is below one year. In serious accidents involving bodily injury to oneself or the other party, the validity of an international driver's license may be examined under the strictest conditions.

The following conditions must all be met to apply for a Japanese driver's license.

1. You must have a valid driver's license from a foreign country.

2. You must have stayed in the country where you obtained this driver's license for at least three (3) months, commencing from the date of issue of this license. If the date of issue is not on your driver's license, you must bring a certification of the date of issue. If you cannot prove your 3-month stay from the date of renewal, you must bring your old license or certification of renewal.

3. You must live in the prefecture you are applying your license at and have an alien registration card (ACR) registered at the local public office.

4. Your visa must be valid.

Things you must bring when you apply:

1. Driver's license (old driver's license or certification)

2. A translation of the information on your driver's license done by members of the embassy. If they don't translate it, you may apply at the Japan Automobile Federation for translation. (For Ibaraki residents, you may inquire at 029-244-7211).

3. Alien registration card (or a certificate if you don't have the card yet).

4. Passport

5. Two (2) photos (3cmX2.4cm)

6. International driver's license (if you have one)

7. Fee: car \4,150; motorcycle \5,050

8. Japanese driver's license (if you have one even if it has been invalid for more than 3 years)

There are two tests: a) about traffic rules; and b) a driving test on our course. If you drive a motorcycle, bring a helmet and a pair of gloves. You must also take an eyesight check.

For residents of Ibaraki Pref., you may ask for more details in Japanese at 029-293-8811 (335).

In case of medical emergency

NGO volunteer Masao Ihashi advises that foreigners, whether holders of valid visa or not, should call the emergency number 119 in times of serious health problems. When the operator takes your call, he usually asks the caller whether it is for kasai (fire) or kyukyu (emergency help). Just say kyukyu and spell out your address, and the ambulance will arrive in less than five (5) minutes.

The patient will be given first aid before being taken to a hospital. The advantage of calling for an ambulance is that, by law, the patient cannot be refused admission even if he does not have a visa or medical insurance. If you bring a person yourself to a hospital, you may be required a deposit and be asked to sign a promissory note, countersigned by a guarantor, before the hospital will admit the person. *