A designated driving school is the most common way to get a driver's license in Japan. If you are unsure of anything, this is the most reliable way to get a driver's license in Japan. You will be under the guidance of experienced trainers, this is a very guided process.
If you have time and money, this is the recommended process.
📅 These schools can work with school and work schedules, you'll attend one or two days per week (sometimes more) for 2-6 months. The total number of courses remains about the same, so frequency of courses determines how many months it will take.
💵 ¥200,000 to as much ¥400,000 depending on the season and school, English options are more expensive and have fewer slots for students.
You will take your practical test with your driving school instructors, then present a certificate at the driving center which exempts you from the famously strict practical tests at the driving center. If the school has availability, it can be completed in as little as three months.
These schools will have you attend in-person once or twice per week for classroom and practical instruction. The rigid schedule may be difficult to fit into an already busy life.
Pass the Aptitude Test
The school will have a simple vision and hearing test.
Obtain the Provisional License
You will have sufficient classroom practice and training then receive this at the school
Practice Driving
All of your practice driving will be done under the supervision of your driving school's instructors
Obtain the Driving License
You will go to the driving center, then take the written test of 100 true-false questions, scoring at least 90%
You will bring a certificate of graduation with you, which exempts you from the practical driving test!