When foreigners rent a car in Japan, they should be aware of the basics of Japanese traffic rules in addition to preparing the necessary documents.

In Japan, the general rule is to drive on the left side of the road, and the colors of traffic lights follow international standards, but there are some exceptions. For example, even if the light is green, be careful of oncoming vehicles when turning right, and remember the principle of giving priority to pedestrians. In addition, drinking and driving is strictly prohibited and the penalties are severe. It is important to understand these Japanese traffic rules and strive to drive safely. When renting a car, please check the Japanese traffic rules in advance and enjoy a safe trip.

When foreigners rent a car in Japan, it is mandatory for all potential drivers to present their driver's license. This is to ensure that the driver has the appropriate qualifications.

The driver's license must be a Japanese license or an international driver's license. International driver's licenses must be issued in a country that is a member of the 1968 Geneva Convention.

In addition, if the driver's license is in a foreign language, a Japanese translation may be required. Depending on the rental car company, you may be asked to send a copy of the license in advance, so be sure to check when making a reservation.

When renting a car with multiple people, it is assumed that you will take turns driving, so all drivers' licenses are required. For foreigners, it is essential to have an international driver's license or a driver's license valid in Japan. In addition, if someone other than the rental car contract holder will drive, they will need to be registered as an additional driver.

At this time, identification for the additional driver is also required, so don't forget to bring a passport or similar. Also, checking with the rental car company in advance will make the process go smoothly. While using a rental car with multiple people increases the fun, it is good to understand that it also increases the number of procedures.

When using a rental car, foreigners in particular may often drive for long periods of time. However, driving while fatigued is very dangerous. Therefore, some ingenuity is required.

First, we recommend that you take turns driving. When using a rental car with multiple people, if you prepare the necessary documents for everyone, you can share the driving responsibilities. It is also important to take frequent breaks. Japan has rest facilities in various places, including on highways. It is important to take a break there and relieve your fatigue. In addition, using a navigation system to smoothly proceed to your destination without getting lost will also help reduce fatigue.

When using a rental car with multiple people, the driver's license of all the drivers is required. For foreigners who do not have a Japanese driver's license, they must bring an international driving permit. In addition, since driver's licenses from some countries are not recognized in Japan, the driver's license of that country and a notarized Japanese translation are also required. By preparing these documents for everyone, anyone can drive, and it is possible to avoid driving for long periods of time. Plan your rental car accordingly.

When renting a car, it is essential to prepare the appropriate documents. Foreign nationals, in particular, should remember that they will need special documents in addition to their driver's license.

Also, by understanding the process from reservation to pick-up, you can rent a car smoothly.

Don't forget to understand Japanese traffic rules and have all members who can drive present their driver's licenses. By using a rental car reservation site, you can rent a car more conveniently. When using a car with multiple people, it is important to take measures to avoid long driving times and prepare the necessary documents. Please keep the above points in mind and make sure to rent a car safely and comfortably.

Foreigners who rent a car, please be extremely careful when driving. You may be confused by Japan's unique traffic rules and unfamiliar road conditions. You should be especially careful when driving on the left side of the road.

In addition, in Japan, except in some areas, there is a rule that you must wait for oncoming vehicles when turning right. In addition, the colors of traffic lights and the meanings of signs differ depending on the country, so we strongly recommend that you check them in advance.

Drunk driving is strictly prohibited and penalties are severe, so you should absolutely avoid it.

Please keep the above points in mind and drive safely. Safe driving is just as important to enjoying your rental car as preparing the necessary documents.