Types of motorcycle licenses in Japan

I. What is a driver's license in Japan?

A driver's license in Japan is a type of license issued by the Japanese authorities. The driver's license is supervised nationwide by the National Police Agency. Individuals with a license can participate in traffic using various types of vehicles such as motorcycles, cars, etc. To obtain a driver's license in Japan, you need to go through a three-part examination. It starts with a theoretical test, followed by a vision test, and then a practical driving test in Japan.

Depending on your needs and the type of vehicle you want to operate, you can choose to apply for the appropriate license. Each type of driver's license has different theoretical and practical exam sections. Additionally, you can also convert your motorcycle license from Vietnam to Japan.

II. Types of motorcycle licenses in Japan

1. 50cc motorcycle license (motorcycles with small engines)

With a 50cc motorcycle license (known as Gentsuki in Japanese), individuals as young as 16 years old can apply for a motorcycle license in Japan. With this license, you can operate motorcycles with engine capacities below 50cc. It allows for easy commuting to school or taking up part-time jobs such as food delivery or courier services.

The 50cc motorcycle license is relatively simple and not too difficult to study for and obtain. However, with this license, you are not allowed to carry a passenger and are prohibited from riding on highways. Additionally, you are also not allowed to ride on overpasses.

2. Motorcycle License 125cc (regular small-displacement motorcycles):

The next step is obtaining a license to drive motorcycles with engine displacements ranging from 50cc to 125cc. With this license, you are allowed to carry two passengers but cannot ride on highways. Individuals who are at least 16 years old can register for training and take the exam.

3. Motorcycle License 400cc (large-displacement motorcycles):

If you have the need to ride motorcycles with engine displacements from 400cc to 750cc (CHYUKATA), you should choose to obtain a 400cc license. With this license, you can carry two passengers and ride on highways. Similar to the previous two licenses, individuals must be at least 16 years old to register for the exam.

4. Motorcycle License 750cc (large-displacement motorcycles):

Lastly, there is the license for riding motorcycles with engine displacements of 750cc and above. This license allows you to operate large-displacement motorcycles. To register for the exam for a 750cc license or above, individuals must be at least 18 years old. This type of license is similar to a car driver's license (equivalent to a regular car driver's license). You also need to pass the vehicle inspection (Shaken), complete the registration process for the vehicle's name and license plate number, and have a parking space like a car. After completing all the procedures and obtaining the license, you can ride motorcycles such as the Honda NC750X or the Harley 1800cc.

III. Types of Car Driver's Licenses in Japan:

Similar to motorcycle licenses, the type of car driver's license you choose to register for depends on your purpose and usage needs. Currently, there are several types of car driver's licenses in Japan, including AT, MT, JYUNCHYU, and CHYUKATA.

In Japan, there are two types of regular driver's licenses: Automatic Transmission (AT) and Manual Transmission (MT). Firstly, you need to obtain a temporary license before registering for training and taking the official exam for the AT or MT driver's license, or JYUNCHYU...

1. Automatic Transmission (AT) License:

An AT license refers to driving vehicles with automatic transmission. With an AT license, you do not need to perform many manual operations as most of the functions are automated.

2. Manual Transmission (MT) License:

An MT license refers to driving vehicles with manual transmission. Drivers with an MT license need to actively control the manual gearbox. Operating the clutch pedal, accelerator, and brakes may be slightly more challenging compared to AT. In Japan, most people tend to choose the AT license more than the MT license due to fewer training sessions and lower costs. However, if you have an MT license, you can drive both types of vehicles, providing more flexibility.

3. JYUNCHYU License:

1. Temporary License:
A temporary license is issued to new drivers who are undergoing training to obtain an AT, MT, or other vehicle class license. During the temporary license phase, you are required to display a training sign on the vehicle. With a temporary license, you can practice driving on the road instead of solely in driving schools. However, you must still have a qualified instructor or a licensed driver sitting in the passenger seat instructing you. The temporary license will expire within 6 months once the driver obtains the AT, MT, JYUNCHYU, or other class license.

2. Regular Car License (for personal use):
A regular car license is used for individuals driving four-wheeled vehicles. As mentioned earlier, depending on the type of vehicle you intend to drive, you can choose either an AT or MT license. The regular car license is commonly used for daily commuting and traveling purposes.

3. Passenger Car License:
This type of license is required for individuals driving taxis, buses, and other passenger vehicles for work purposes. Additionally, this license is suitable for individuals who have a business involving transportation services.