Can an Indonesian Driver's License Be Converted?
Yes, an Indonesian driver's license (SIM A for cars) can be converted to a Japanese driver's license (普通免許/futsu menkyo). However, the process is NOT as simple as just exchanging licenses like in some other countries. Indonesia is not on the list of countries whose licenses can be directly exchanged, so you must take a written (knowledge) test and a practical driving test.
Basic Requirements
- A valid Indonesian driver's license (or one that expired while you were still in Indonesia)
- Proof that you stayed in Indonesia for at least 3 months after the license was issued. This is proven by passport stamps.
- Japanese Residence Card
- Official translation of the license from JAF (Japan Automobile Federation) or the Indonesian Embassy
Documents to Prepare
| Document | How to Obtain | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Original Indonesian driver's license | Already have | - |
| Passport (all previously used ones) | For proof of stay dates | - |
| License translation from JAF | Nearest JAF office | 4,000 yen |
| Residence Card | Already have | - |
| Photo 3x2.4 cm | Photo booth at a convenience store or driving center | 800-1,000 yen |
| Juminhyo (住民票) | City hall | 300 yen |
Step-by-Step Conversion Process
Step 1: Translate Your License at JAF
- Visit the nearest JAF office (search on jaf.or.jp)
- Bring your original Indonesian driver's license and passport
- Pay 4,000 yen
- The translation will be ready in 1-2 weeks (some offices can do it the same day)
Step 2: Visit the Driving License Center (運転免許センター)
NOT a regular police station, but the prefectural driver's license center (免許センター/menkyo center). For example:
- Tokyo: Fuchu Driving License Center or Samezu
- Osaka: Kadoma Driving License Center
- Aichi: Heiwa Driving License Center
Go in the morning (opens at 08:30, it's best to arrive by 08:00).
Step 3: Eye Test
- Standard vision check (0.7 for both eyes)
- If you wear glasses, bring them
- You usually pass immediately if your vision is normal
Step 4: Knowledge Test (筆記試験)
- 10 true/false questions in Japanese or English
- You must answer at least 7 out of 10 correctly
- Topics: traffic signs, Japanese road rules
- Tips: Study from the Japanese traffic rules book (交通の教則) which you can get for free at the driving center
Step 5: Practical Driving Test (実技試験)
This is the hardest part and the reason why many Indonesian nationals have to try several times:
- It is conducted on a course (circuit) within the driving center area, NOT on public roads
- The duration is about 10-15 minutes
- The examiner sits next to you
- It starts with 100 points, with deductions for each mistake. You must have at least 70 points to pass.
Tips for Passing the Practical Test
Many Indonesian nationals fail 2-5 times before passing. Here are tips from those who have succeeded:
- Turn your head clearly when looking (首振り/kubifuri) - This is VERY important. The examiner must SEE you turn your head left and right before turning, changing lanes, or entering an intersection.
- Check the side mirror AND the blind spot - Every time you change lanes or turn, look at the mirror and then turn your head to check the blind spot.
- Come to a FULL stop at the stop line - Not slowing down and then going, but a complete stop (wheels not moving) for 3 seconds.
- Signal 30 meters before turning - Turn on your turn signal earlier than you might be used to.
- Maintain appropriate speed for the area - 30-40 km/h on the course, don't go too slow or too fast.
- S-curve and crank - Practice on a Go-Kart or in a simulation. Many course videos are available online on YouTube.
- Getting in/out of the car is also graded - Check under the car before getting in, lock the doors, adjust the mirrors, and fasten your seatbelt.
Total Cost
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| JAF Translation | 4,000 yen |
| Test fee (per attempt) | 2,550 yen |
| License issuance fee | 2,050 yen |
| Photo | 800 yen |
| Juminhyo | 300 yen |
Minimum total: around 10,000 yen (if you pass on the first try). Each re-test: +2,550 yen.
Alternative: Getting a New License in Japan
If you don't have an Indonesian license or it has been expired for too long:
- Driving school (自動車学校/jidousha gakkou): 250,000-350,000 yen, duration 1-3 months
- Pros: Learn Japanese rules from scratch, pass the practical test at the school (not at the center)
- Cons: Very expensive and time-consuming
After Getting Your License
- Validity period: The first 3 years (valid until 1 month after your 3rd birthday following issuance)
- Beginner's sticker (若葉マーク): Mandatory to display on your car for the first year
- Renewal: At the driving license center, you need to attend a class and take an eye test
- International Driving Permit: Can be obtained at the driving license center if you want to drive outside of Japan
Converting a license requires patience, especially for the practical test. Don't be discouraged if you fail on your first attempt, as Japanese standards are very strict. Many Japanese people themselves fail their first attempt when getting their license.