Frequently Asked Questions | FAQ's
1. What are the requirements to rent a car in Japan?
To rent a car in Japan, you must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver's license. International visitors must have an International Driving Permit (IDP) obtained from their home country, along with their national driver's license. The IDP must be based on the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. Some rental companies might require you to be 20 years or older, so it's important to check the age requirements of the rental company you plan to use.
2. Can I use my foreign driver's license to rent a car in Japan?
No, a foreign driver's license alone is not sufficient to rent a car in Japan. You need an International Driving Permit (IDP), which is a translation of your national driver's license, and you must carry both your IDP and your national driver's license at all times when driving in Japan.
3. Is it expensive to rent a car in Japan?
Rental costs can vary based on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and additional services. Generally, prices are competitive, and there are various rental companies to choose from. Keep in mind that additional costs such as insurance, fuel, tolls, and parking can increase the overall cost. Booking in advance and shopping around can help find better deals.
4. Is driving in Japan difficult for foreigners?
Driving in Japan can be challenging for foreigners due to the language barrier, traffic rules, and the fact that vehicles are driven on the left side of the road. English GPS systems are available, and understanding basic traffic signs and rules before driving is crucial. Urban areas can be congested, and finding parking can be difficult, so many prefer using public transportation in cities and renting cars for rural areas or road trips.
5. What type of car insurance is required for car rental in Japan?
In Japan, it's compulsory to have car insurance when you rent a vehicle. Typically, rental prices include basic insurance that covers damage to the vehicle, property damage, and bodily injury. However, you may be offered or want to consider additional coverage options for greater protection, such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Non-Operation Charge (NOC) coverage.
6. How do I pay for tolls when driving a rental car in Japan?
Tolls on Japanese expressways can be paid either in cash or via an electronic toll collection (ETC) system. If your rental car is equipped with an ETC card reader, you can rent an ETC card from the car rental company to enable automatic toll payments, which is often more convenient and sometimes offers discounted toll rates.
7. Can I return the rental car at a different location from where I picked it up?
Yes, many car rental companies in Japan offer one-way rentals, which allow you to pick up the car at one location and return it to a different location. Be aware that this service may incur an additional fee and should be arranged with the rental company at the time of booking.
8. Are English-language GPS navigation systems available in rental cars?
Yes, most car rental companies in Japan offer vehicles equipped with GPS navigation systems that include English language options. It is advisable to request an English GPS when booking your car to ensure availability.
9. What should I do if I have an accident or emergency while driving a rental car in Japan?
In case of an accident or emergency, ensure your safety and the safety of others first. Contact the police (dial 110) and the car rental company immediately. Do not attempt to negotiate with the involved parties on your own. The rental company will assist you with the procedures and guide you on what to do next. It's important to fill out an accident report, which is necessary for insurance purposes.
10. Are there any specific traffic rules in Japan that I should be aware of?
Yes, Japan has strict traffic rules that must be followed. Some key points to remember include: driving on the left side of the road; not turning left on a red light (unless there's a sign indicating otherwise); adhering to the zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving; and understanding that using a phone without a hands-free device while driving is illegal. Additionally, stopping at level crossings for trains, obeying speed limits, and parking only in designated areas are important rules.
