CICan I Japan?
Can I Japan?/Driving & transport/Can I drive a rental car across different prefectures?
Driving & transport

Can I drive a rental car across different prefectures?

YES

Yes. A normal Japanese rental car can be driven across prefectural borders. One-way drop-off, prohibited areas and return-location fees are rental-company matters.

VerifiedExact primary sourceLast checked: 18 Aug 2026

What you need to know

Requirements & exceptions
  • Confirm your current immigration/residency status.
  • Check the rule that applies to the exact activity.
  • Use the latest official guidance before acting.
Documents
  • Original foreign driver's license
  • Passport
  • Residence card / residence record if applicable
  • Valid 1949 Geneva Convention IDP where applicable
Likely cost
Rental-company market price; base rental, insurance/waiver, fuel, tolls, child seats, snow equipment and one-way fees can be separate.
Where to act
Rental-car company; present the driving documents valid in Japan at pickup.
Official sources
National Police Agency — Foreign Driver's Licenses / IDP / ConversionNational Police Agency · Official source

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