Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: I have no driving experience.
I want to get a license for the first time. Please tell me the process, cost, and time required.

License acquisition process
Basic driving practice at a driving school (3 days)
Written test for learner’s permit → Driving test for learner’s permit → Obtain learner’s permit
On-road lessons (5 days)
Final written test → Final driving test → Receive license

Estimated cost
Lesson fees: ¥297,000
Exam fees, etc.: ¥26,450
Total: ¥323,450
*Costs may vary depending on number of practice sessions and individual progress. Additional exam fees apply.

Time required
If combined with work or school, expect about 4–6 months.

Q2: I have driving experience abroad but no license.
If I want to obtain a license from scratch in Japan, what is the process and cost?

The process is the same as Q1.

Estimated cost
Lesson fees: ¥259,000
Exam fees, etc.: ¥26,450
Total: ¥285,450

Time required
If combined with work or school, expect about 4–6 months.

Q3: How do I attend the classroom sessions?

All classroom lessons are online to minimize commuting time. When you enroll, you will receive access to online content, textbooks, and practice questions.
You can also ask instructors unlimited questions online during your enrollment period and clarify any doubts as many times as needed.

Q4: Can complete beginners without a license in Japan or abroad take lessons?

Yes, they can. You will start with a basic program and gradually learn steering, accelerator/brake control, and vehicle dimensions. Lessons are conducted in a car equipped with a dual brake and accompanied by an experienced instructor for safe practice.

Q5: Do I need a Japanese license to take lessons? Can I take lessons with a foreign license?

A Japanese license is not required. Since practice is done on a private course, you can take lessons even without a license. We also offer a “Start from Zero” plan for beginners. Without a learner’s permit, you cannot practice on public roads, but you can still practice safely in a dual-brake training car.

Q6: Can I obtain a license only through your school without going to an officially recognized driving school?

Yes, you can. We support direct testing at the license examination center. We focus on the necessary driving techniques and test route preparation to help you pass.

Q7: Are the tests included in the program?

No. Written and driving tests must be taken at the police license examination center. Our school provides practice in an environment similar to the test site to reduce anxiety.

Foreigners / English Support

Q1: Are lessons available in English? Can foreigners participate?

Yes. We have English-speaking instructors and have provided lessons to over 500 foreigners.

Q2: Do instructors speak English?

Yes, they can communicate in English. We have experience with students from over 30 countries and can explain Japanese traffic rules clearly.

Q3: Can I take lessons with a foreign license?

Yes. Since practice is done on private property, you can take lessons safely even if your license is invalid in Japan.

Q4: If I have a foreign license, what is the process to get a Japanese license?

Requirements vary by country. Some countries are exempt from testing, while others require it. We will guide you through the process individually.

Q5: Can I practice on a course similar to the test center?

Yes. We offer practice based on the routes of Samezu, Fuchu, and Konosu test centers and teach the key points that examiners focus on.

Lesson Content

Q1: Do you offer highway driving practice?

Yes. Highway practice is included in the beginner’s plan, and you can also add it as an option if needed.

Q2: Do you support both AT (automatic) and MT (manual) licenses?

We only support first-time license applicants. We recommend obtaining an AT license first, then taking the MT conversion test later if needed.

Q3: Do you offer training for large vehicles or motorcycles?

We only handle regular car licenses. For large vehicles and motorcycles, we will refer you to a specialized school.

Q4: What happens if I fail the test? Can I retake lessons and what is the fee?

You can retake lessons. Additional fees depend on the plan.

Lessons / Booking

Q1: How do I book a lesson?

You can book by phone or via LINE. We recommend contacting us early during busy seasons.

Q2: What should I bring on the day?

Japanese nationals should bring a residence certificate and ID. Foreign nationals should bring a residence card and residence certificate. Comfortable shoes and glasses (if required) are also necessary.

Q3: Can I reschedule or cancel a lesson?

Cancellations are free up to 3 days in advance. After that, a cancellation fee will apply.

Q4: When can I enroll?

During normal periods, usually within one month. During busy seasons, there may be a wait of several months.

Q5: How much does the total training cost?

It depends on the plan. We will provide a standard price list.

Q6: How long does it take to get a license?

On average, 4–6 months. If you want a shorter timeframe, we recommend starting lessons early.

Foreign License Conversion

Q1: Please tell me the process, cost, and time required for foreign license conversion.

Prepare documents → Get translation → Submit documents → Written test → Driving test → Receive license
Cost: approx. ¥30,000–60,000
Lesson period: 2–3 days (longer if you have a long break from driving)
Time to obtain license: 1–6 months depending on region

Q2: Do you support the Specified Skilled Worker program (automobile transport sector)?

Yes. Since application procedures may differ by test center, we recommend confirming in advance.

Q3: Can I convert my foreign license to a Japanese one?

Yes. Required tests vary by country. We will guide you individually.

Q4: What documents are required?

Foreign license, Japanese translation, passport, residence card, residence certificate, ID photo, and proof of 3+ months stay are required.

Q5: What does the test include?

There is an aptitude test, written test, and driving test. The written test may be waived depending on the country. The driving test evaluates turning, obstacle avoidance, and hill starts.

Q6: Can I practice for the conversion test?

Yes. We provide practice simulating the test course, focusing on passing points and common failure reasons.

Q7: How long does it take?

On average 1–2 months. During busy periods, it may take more than 3 months.

Q8: What are the lesson time and cost if I use the rented test center course?

Lessons at the test center are as follows:

• Lesson time: 60 minutes
• Lesson fee: ¥25,500 (tax included)
• Course usage fee: ¥2,200 (tax included)
• Total: approx. ¥27,700 (tax included)

*Training car will be automatic.

Q9: Is training offered as a course package or per session?

It is not a package. You book each session as needed and can add more as necessary.

Q10: What do you teach in the lessons?

Using the actual test course, we cover all items that will be checked on the test in 60 minutes.

Q11: How many lessons are needed to pass the conversion test?

Generally, 2–3 sessions are recommended. There are over 50 items checked during the test, and we practice them thoroughly. The number may vary depending on skill level and understanding.

Q12: Do you provide support for the written test?

Yes, we provide online study support so you can prepare without coming to the school.

Q13: How do I book a course at the test center?

You must book the Samezu test center course yourself by phone.
Phone number: 03-6717-3086
When calling, say in Japanese: “I would like to book for (month/day/time).” If Japanese is difficult, it is ideal to have your spouse assist as an interpreter.

Q14: What should I do after booking the course?

After your booking is complete, please call us again to confirm. We need to match your course reservation with the instructor reservation.

Q15: I heard it is difficult to get through to book the course. Is that true?

Yes. There is only one operator, so it is very hard to get through. Please keep redialing until connected.

Q16: I heard it is difficult to reserve lessons at Samezu test center. Is there an alternative?

Yes. Lessons at Samezu are only available on Saturdays and holidays, and the number of practice slots is very limited. You need to reserve about one month in advance, and they often fill up before then.
Only about 15% of all candidates get practice slots, so you may not get one.
We do not recommend this for those who need guaranteed practice before their test date.
If you want faster and more reliable practice, we recommend the Nishi-Urawa alternative course.
Nishi-Urawa course is about 80% similar to Samezu and covers all key test points, with video explanations included.
Meeting place: JR Nishi-Urawa Station (in front of ticket gate, only one exit)
Google Map is here

Q17: Please tell me the process for taking lessons at the private driving school course in Saitama.

Process for Foreign License Conversion Lesson (Day of Lesson)

• Meeting place & time: Gather at JR Nishi-Urawa Station ticket gate (only one exit) by the specified time.
  We will provide our contact information for the day at the time of booking.
• Transport: 10-minute ride by car to the training location.
• Lesson content:
  ・Explanation of how to drive on the course (about 10 minutes)
  ・Practical driving lesson (about 40 minutes)
  ・Explanation of the test course (about 10 minutes)
  ・Q&A
• After the lesson: 10-minute car ride back to the station

What to Bring / Clothing

No special items are needed for practice on the course. Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for driving.

Payment

Payment is cash only. Please prepare cash in advance.
Lesson fee: ¥19,800 (tax included, including course fee)
*Training car will be automatic.

License Expiration / Reacquisition / After Cancellation

Q1: Does the reacquisition process differ depending on whether I still have a learner’s permit?

Yes. If you still have a valid learner’s permit, you can proceed to the final test more quickly. If not, you must start over from the beginning.

Q9: What is a “Learner’s Permit”?

A learner’s permit allows you to practice on public roads before obtaining your final license. It is valid for 6 months.

Q3: What should I be aware of after license expiration or cancellation?

Depending on the reason for cancellation, the test may be more strict. Also, pay attention to any traffic law changes.