Do you hold a licence that's valid in Japan?

There are two formats of International Driving Permit, and Japan accepts only the one whose cover reads "1949". A permit that reads "1968" cannot be used in Japan, even though it is genuine and valid in other countries. Several countries — mostly in Europe — issue both, so when you apply, make sure you receive the "1949" version.

Only from the authority in the country that issued your licence. It cannot be issued inside Japan. In the United States, only AAA and AATA issue them. It must be the original booklet — card versions, digital versions and copies are not accepted. Please also check that it stays valid for the whole of your stay.

Six countries and regions — Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco and Taiwan — drive on a Japanese translation rather than an IDP. It may only be produced by JAF (Japan Automobile Federation), Zip Plus Co., Ltd., the Japan Inbound Driver Support Association, your country's consular office in Japan, the Taiwan-Japan Relations Association for Taiwan, or ADAC for Germany. A translation you made yourself is not valid.

They cannot ride in a kart. Everyone on the tour drives their own. There are no passenger seats, so anyone without a licence cannot join. They are welcome to wait at the base.

You can book first. At booking you only choose your nationality and the country that issued your licence; you send the photos afterwards from your phone. Send them at least 48 hours before departure and we review them before you arrive. On the day we only match them against the originals. This exists so that nobody is told "you can't drive" at the counter.

You must be 18 or over to take part.

Privately issued cards calling themselves an "international licence" or "international driver's licence" are not recognised in Japan, however official they look. Only a genuine government-issued IDP or a certified Japanese translation is valid — please check with us if you're unsure what you have.

An IDP is only valid together with your original home driving licence. Bring both, every time — the IDP by itself will be refused.

Converting a foreign licence to a Japanese one (外免切替) exists, but it's built for residents: it needs a Japanese address, an in-person knowledge and practical test at a driving centre, and usually several visits over more than one day. It is not realistic to arrange during a short visit.