Are you planning to get behind the wheel in the Land of the Rising Sun? Whether you are a resident applying for your first license or an expat converting a foreign license (Gaimen Kirikae), passing the written test is your first major hurdle.
The Japanese driving test has a reputation for being tricky. It isn’t just about knowing how to drive; it is about knowing exactly what the Japanese police expect you to know. The questions can be linguistic puzzles, often featuring "Choose the correct statement" formats where all answers sound plausible.
Don't panic! In this guide, we will break down the format of the exam, provide examples of real driving test questions and answers, and share the secret tips to passing with flying colors.
Before diving into the questions, you must understand the structure. Unlike the multi-page exams in the US or UK, the Japanese conversion test is relatively short:
Note: If you are taking the test from scratch (no existing license), your test will have 95 questions. This article focuses on the conversion test (Gaimen Kirikae), which is what most expats take.
While the written test is about knowledge, the practical test (required for license conversion and new licenses) is about procedure. You can be a "good" driver and still fail.
Common reasons for failure: 1.
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The Japanese driving written exam underwent a major overhaul in October 2025
, significantly increasing in difficulty for those converting foreign licenses ( Gaimen Kirikae
). Passing now requires deep knowledge of specific Japanese traffic laws rather than just general "common sense". Exam Structure & Passing Scores : The test consists of 50 true-or-false questions (increased from 10 before Oct 2025). Passing Criteria : You must score at least , meaning you can only afford 5 incorrect answers (45/50 correct). Language Options
: The test is available in English and many other languages (e.g., Chinese, Tagalog, Vietnamese) depending on the license center. Content Scope
: Questions cover 22 specific topics, including highway driving, vehicle maintenance, emergency response, and pedestrian protection. Commonly Tested Scenarios & Tricky Questions
Japanese exams are known for "trick" phrasing that tests precise knowledge of the law. Written Test Guide and Practice | Lease Japan
Ready to create a quiz? Use Canvas to test your knowledge with a custom quiz Get started The written driving test in
—whether for a full license, a learner's permit, or a license conversion (Gaimen Kirikae)—is known for being tricky due to its specific phrasing and focus on strict compliance with Japanese traffic laws. Recent Exam Updates (October 2025)
As of October 2025, the requirements for the foreign license conversion (Gaimen Kirikae) test have significantly changed:
Question Count: Increased from 10 questions to 50 questions.
Passing Score: Raised from 70% to 90% (you must answer at least 45 out of 50 correctly). Format: Primarily True/False. Sample Test Questions & Explanations
The following are examples of the types of logic and rules tested on Japanese written exams:
If a pedestrian stops while crossing as you approach, you may continue driving as before. False
You must not force a pedestrian into a dangerous situation; you should stop and give way. driving test questions and answers japan
Vehicles must not drive on a safety zone only when there are pedestrians on it. False
Vehicles must never drive on a safety zone, regardless of whether pedestrians are present.
The maximum speed limit for mopeds is 30 km/hr even on roads without speed limit signs. True
30 km/hr is the statutory limit for mopeds unless otherwise marked.
When a traffic signal is green at a railway crossing, you do not need to stop. True
While you must usually stop at crossings, a green signal allows you to proceed after checking for safety. Overtaking is permitted on steep uphill slopes. True
Overtaking is prohibited on steep downhill slopes, but allowed uphill as some vehicles cannot maintain speed.
If you consume a small amount of alcohol but feel okay, it is acceptable to drive. False Japan has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. Key Study Tips & Pitfalls
Absolute Words: Be extremely cautious with words like "all," "every," "always," or "must." These often indicate a false statement because Japanese rules frequently have specific exceptions.
Exact Numbers: Memorize specific distances and speeds. For example, safe following distances or the exact 30-meter rule for prohibited passing near intersections.
Specific Terminology: Distinguish clearly between "parking" (chusha) and "stopping" (teisha), as the test uses these terms precisely.
"To Avoid Danger": Statements that include "to avoid danger" are almost always true in the context of the exam. Recommended Resources Rules of the Road Book
: Published by the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF), this is considered the definitive study guide for foreign drivers.
Practice Portals: Sites like Lease Japan and apps like Mantensama provide extensive English-language practice tests.
JAF Quiz: The JAF Safe Driving Quiz offers visual training for traffic lights and road signs.
Are you preparing for the full 100-question final exam or the 50-question conversion test? Written Test Practice: Test 1 - Lease Japan
Passing the Japanese driving test is notorious for being a high-stakes challenge, especially after the major traffic law amendment in October 2025
The difficulty has significantly increased for foreign residents converting their licenses ( gaimen kirikae
). Previously, the written test was a simple 10-question quiz, but it has now expanded to a 50-question True/False exam that requires a 90% passing score (at least 45 correct answers). Common "Trick" Questions and Answers
Japanese driving exams often include scenario-based questions with precise wording that can trip up even experienced drivers. Priority at Intersections
: At an intersection with no traffic lights or signs, the car on the left has the right of way. . In Japan, the vehicle on the has priority at such intersections. Signaling for Turns Ace Your Exam: The Ultimate Guide to Driving
: You must signal your intention to turn 10 meters before the intersection. . Japanese law requires signaling at least before the turn. Stopping at Railroad Crossings
: You only need to stop at a railroad crossing if the signal is active. . You must always stop, look, and listen at all railroad crossings, regardless of signal activity. Overtaking on Slopes
: Overtaking is prohibited on both steep uphill and downhill slopes. . Overtaking is prohibited on steep slopes but generally permitted on steep Towing Broken Vehicles
: A towing license is always required when towing another vehicle on public roads.
. A towing license is not required if the broken-down vehicle is being towed by rope or crane, even if it exceeds 750kg. Essential Rules for the Written Exam
The new test covers a broader scope, including maintenance, highway rules, and emergency responses. Headlights : Must be on inside all tunnels, regardless of visibility. Seat Belts : Legally required for occupants, including rear-seat passengers. Right Turn on Red : Prohibited by default. It is only allowed if a specific green right-arrow signal is displayed. Yellow Centerlines
: Indicate that overtaking by entering the right-hand side of the road is prohibited. Practical Test Expectations Gaimen Kirikae Written Exam Practice Questions and Tips 16 Sept 2025 —
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Navigating the driver’s license process in Japan can be a daunting experience, especially with the major updates implemented in October 2025. Whether you are a long-term resident starting from scratch or a foreigner converting an existing license (Gaimen Kirikae), understanding the specific phrasing and logic of Japanese driving test questions is the key to success. The 2025 Test Overhaul: What Has Changed?
As of October 2025, the written exam for license conversion (Gaimen Kirikae) has become significantly more challenging: Question Count: Increased from 10 to 50 questions.
Passing Score: You now need a 90% score (at least 45 correct answers) to pass.
Format Shift: Most illustrations have been removed in favor of text-only scenarios, requiring higher reading comprehension.
Time Limit: You have 30 minutes to complete the 50 true/false questions. Sample Driving Test Questions and Answers
Japanese test questions are notorious for their "tricky" phrasing. Below are common practice scenarios and the logic behind their answers. 1. Right of Way and Intersections Written Test Practice: Test 1 - Lease Japan
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In Japan, the written driving test (specifically the Gaimen Kirikae for license conversion) typically consists of 10 true-or-false questions and requires a score of at least 7 out of 10 to pass. For a full license, the Honmen test is more extensive, featuring 90 true-or-false questions and 5 danger prediction questions.
Below are common practice questions and answers derived from Japanese road rules and official test guides: Traffic Signals & Signs
Q: Is it permissible to turn left at a red light in Japan?A: No. You cannot turn left or right on red unless there is a specific green arrow signal or a sign with a blue arrow on a white background indicating otherwise.
Q: If you see a green left-turn arrow and a red light, can a "light vehicle" (like a bicycle) turn left?A: No. While cars and mopeds may turn, light vehicles must remain stopped.
Q: What do two diamonds painted on the road signify?A: Pre-warning for a pedestrian crosswalk. They indicate you are approaching a crossing and should prepare to slow down. Right of Way & Intersections
Q: At an intersection with no signals or signs, which vehicle has the right of way?A: The vehicle on the right. In Japan, traffic from the right generally has priority at unmarked intersections. including highway driving
Q: Must you always stop at a railroad crossing, even if no train is visible?A: True. Japanese law requires a complete stop, look, and listen at all level crossings unless specifically exempt by signage.
Q: If an emergency vehicle approaches from behind while you are in an intersection, should you stop immediately?A: False. You must clear the intersection first, then move to the left and stop. Pedestrians & Safety Written Test Practice: Test 1 - Lease Japan
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The Japanese driving written exam for foreign license conversion (Gaimen Kirikae) consists of 10 True or False questions available in multiple languages, including English. To pass, you must answer at least 7 out of 10 correctly. If you are obtaining a license from scratch, the full written test is much more rigorous, featuring 50 questions with a 30-minute time limit. Sample Practice Questions
These questions reflect common themes found in the Japanese written exam reviewer:
Q: When turning left, you should move your vehicle as close as possible to the left edge of the road.
A: True. You must minimize the gap to prevent bicycles or motorcycles from trying to pass you on the left during your turn.
Q: You may use your mobile phone while driving if you are using a hands-free device and traffic is slow.
A: False. Japanese law strictly prohibits the use or holding of mobile phones while driving. Even hands-free use is discouraged as it causes distraction.
Q: It is permissible to enter a pedestrian crossing even if there are people waiting to cross, as long as you drive slowly.
A: False. You must stop and yield to pedestrians who are in or about to enter a crosswalk.
Q: When driving near a school bus that has stopped to let children off, you must slow down and be prepared to stop.
A: True. Safety for children is a high priority in Japanese traffic regulations.
Q: A flashing red light means the same thing as a "Stop" sign.
A: True. You must come to a complete stop before the stop line, check for traffic, and then proceed when safe. Key Rules to Remember
Zero Tolerance for Alcohol: Japan has a strict "No Drinking and Driving" policy. This includes passengers—if you are in a car driven by someone who has been drinking, you can also be penalized.
Left-Hand Side: Vehicles drive on the left side of the road, and the driver sits on the right side of the vehicle.
The "Hook" Turn: In certain urban areas, cyclists must perform a "two-step" or hook turn at large intersections rather than turning right directly with car traffic.
Railway Crossings: You must come to a complete stop before every railway crossing, even if no train is visible or the barriers are up. Open your window slightly to listen for approaching trains before proceeding. Helpful Resources
Official Guides: The Chiba Prefectural Police provide detailed requirements for foreign license conversion.
Study Materials: Many applicants use the "Rules of the Road" book published by the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF).
Common Pitfalls: Review expert tips on Japan-Dev to avoid failing the practical portion, which is often considered more difficult than the written test. How To Get a Driver's License in Japan
| Question | Answer (True/False) | | :--- | :--- | | You may sound your horn to warn a pedestrian who is about to step into the road. | False (Horns are only for immediate danger, not warnings.) | | Driving with worn tires (less than 1.6mm tread) results in immediate license revocation. | False (It's a fine + points, but not revocation.) | | You must dim your high beams when following another car within 100m. | True | | A flashing yellow arrow means yield to oncoming traffic before turning. | False (Japan doesn't have flashing yellow arrows. That's a US sign.) | | You may overtake on the left if the car ahead is turning right. | True (Japan drives on left, so overtaking on left is standard.) |