What Languages Can You Take the Driving Test in, in Japan?

Can I take the written test in English?

Yes. The written test is available in English, and in Tokyo in about 20 languages in total. This applies to the provisional-licence (karimen) test and, importantly, to the foreign-licence conversion knowledge test — so a conversion applicant in Tokyo can sit the 50-question test in English.

English is the most widely offered foreign language nationwide, so if English is your language you are in the best position. Even so, confirm it with your own prefecture, because the offering is set locally, not nationally.

What other languages are available?

In prefectures that offer many languages, the list commonly includes English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Portuguese, Tagalog, Thai, and others — up to around 20 in Tokyo. Prefectures with fewer foreign residents typically offer a shorter list, often Japanese, English, Chinese, and Vietnamese.

There is no single national menu. The exact languages, and whether your language is among them, depend on the test centre. If your first language is not offered, English is usually the practical fallback.

Does the language availability differ by prefecture?

Yes — this is the key point. Because each prefectural public safety commission runs the test, the set of available languages is decided locally. A big-city centre may offer ~20 languages; a rural one may offer only a few.

So 'can I take it in my language?' has no nationwide yes/no answer. Look up the foreign-language test page for your prefecture's police, or call the test centre, before you assume your language is available and before you book an appointment.

What about the practical driving test?

The practical test is a driving assessment, not a written exam, so it is not offered 'in a language' the way the written test is. You drive a set course or route while the examiner gives brief instructions. Whether those instructions can be given in English, and whether an interpreter is allowed, varies by prefecture and is something to confirm in advance.

Many foreign-licence applicants must pass a practical test too, depending on their licence's issuing country and category. Do not assume the practical test is waived — check your situation with your prefectural police.

What should I confirm before booking?

Confirm three things with your specific test centre: that your language is offered for the written test, whether you also face a practical test, and how to book. These are all set per prefecture, so a friend's experience in another prefecture is not a reliable guide.

A practical tip: the questions and rules are identical whatever language you test in — only the wording changes. So practising the 50-question format in English on this site prepares you for the same test you will sit at the centre, in whichever language you choose.

FAQ

Can I take the Japanese driving written test in English?

Yes. English is the most widely offered foreign language, and in Tokyo the written test is available in about 20 languages including English — covering both the provisional-licence test and the foreign-licence conversion knowledge test.

How many languages is the written test offered in?

Up to around 20 in Tokyo. Other prefectures offer fewer — often Japanese, English, Chinese, and Vietnamese. The exact list is set per prefecture, so check your own test centre.

Is the practical driving test given in English?

The practical test is a driving assessment rather than a language test. Whether the examiner's instructions are given in English, or an interpreter is allowed, varies by prefecture — confirm in advance.

Will my language be available everywhere in Japan?

Not necessarily. Available languages are set by each prefecture, so a language offered in Tokyo may not be offered in a smaller prefecture. English is the most reliable fallback, but always confirm locally.