that time of year again...
A lot of first year JETs who re-contracted are probably going through the process of changing their driver's license/IDP to a Japanese license. Many foreigners only need to do paperwork to get a Japanese license, but for anyone who has to take the driving test itself (this includes all Americans), getting a Japanese license is a HUGE pain. So lemme offer you some advice.
I wrote my own experiences taking the driving test in Kumamoto back in summer '05 ( link). It's fairly detailed and covers pretty much the whole process, HOWEVER, because it's been 2 years I can't vouch for any changes there might have been in the testing procedure. I posted this info for your information, I am not responsible for any adverse outcomes.
Here are general pointers for anyone taking the test:
- prepare yourself mentally: the chances of you failing the first time is considerable, and many, many, many Japanese people fail multiple times before passing. If you pass on your first time, good for you, but don't be surprised if you have to take the test more than once.
- this test is NOT about your ability to drive in real-world Japan, it's about how well you play by the menkyo center's rules and survive the bureaucracy. Make sure you know what those rules and procedures are before you go, and that you've prepared all the documents you'll need WELL in advance. When you take the test, don't drive as you normally would - drive as if you're an old granny who follows every rule in the book.
- this can be a stressful thing to go through. Relax, don't panic, and do your best.
The ultimate authority in licenses is your prefectural Menkyo Center, so please confirm everything with them before you take your test!!!
Good luck folks!
I wrote my own experiences taking the driving test in Kumamoto back in summer '05 ( link). It's fairly detailed and covers pretty much the whole process, HOWEVER, because it's been 2 years I can't vouch for any changes there might have been in the testing procedure. I posted this info for your information, I am not responsible for any adverse outcomes.
Here are general pointers for anyone taking the test:
- prepare yourself mentally: the chances of you failing the first time is considerable, and many, many, many Japanese people fail multiple times before passing. If you pass on your first time, good for you, but don't be surprised if you have to take the test more than once.
- this test is NOT about your ability to drive in real-world Japan, it's about how well you play by the menkyo center's rules and survive the bureaucracy. Make sure you know what those rules and procedures are before you go, and that you've prepared all the documents you'll need WELL in advance. When you take the test, don't drive as you normally would - drive as if you're an old granny who follows every rule in the book.
- this can be a stressful thing to go through. Relax, don't panic, and do your best.
The ultimate authority in licenses is your prefectural Menkyo Center, so please confirm everything with them before you take your test!!!
Good luck folks!