Rental counters in Japan check documents strictly. Missing one item usually means no car, and at many companies, no refund. Print this page, or screenshot it, and tick it off before you leave home.
Every driver needs: original home licence, 1949 Geneva IDP (or official Japanese translation for certain countries), and passport. Plus the card used to book and your confirmation. No copies, no photos, no 1968-only IDPs.
The checklist
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Original driving licence | The physical card from your home country, valid for the whole trip |
| 1949 Geneva Convention IDP or official Japanese translation | Same country as your licence. Translation for Germany, France, Switzerland, Belgium, Monaco, Taiwan and a few others |
| Passport | The original |
| Payment card | The one used for the booking |
| Booking confirmation | On your phone is fine |
Every driver needs their own full set.
Not accepted
- Photocopies or photos of any document
- IDPs issued only under the 1968 Vienna Convention
- An IDP from a different country than your licence
- Learner or provisional licences
Before you fly
- Photograph everything and send it to your rental company if they offer an advance check.
- Pack the originals in your hand luggage, never in checked bags.
- Check every expiry date against your trip dates.
- Leave time if you need a JAF translation.
Full details on permits: International Driving Permit for Japan.
Put all your driving documents in one clear zip folder in your carry-on. At the counter — or at our briefing — you'll hand over everything in ten seconds.
For an ARTCARS night drive
Bring your original licence, your 1949 Geneva IDP (or official translation) and your passport. Book at least three days ahead so we can answer document questions in time. See what to expect.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need my passport to rent a car in Japan?
Yes. Rental companies check it alongside your licence and IDP.
Can my friend drive if only I have an IDP?
No. Every driver needs their own valid documents and must be registered on the rental.
What if my IDP expires during my trip?
You can't drive after it expires. Make sure it covers every day you plan to drive.
Can I show my documents on my phone?
No. Only originals are accepted.