Japan License Conversion Knowledge Test (Chishiki Kakunin) — Complete Guide to the New Rules
To convert a foreign driver’s license to a Japanese one (gaimen kirikae), you must pass two checks: a knowledge test and a practical driving test. This guide covers the knowledge test under the rules in force since October 2025, based on the National Police Agency’s official directives.
Test format (since October 1, 2025)
The test has 50 true/false questions in text form, with a 30-minute time limit. You need 45 or more correct answers (90%) to pass. The old test had just 10 picture-based questions with a 70% passing line — the new one is dramatically harder: the pass rate fell from 92.5% to 42.8% (National Police Agency, Oct–Dec 2025).
The scope is Japanese road traffic rules — equivalent to the regular written exam Japanese drivers take, based on the official Traffic Rules textbook (kyosoku). Questions are text-only, except road-sign questions which may include images.
| Questions | 50 true/false |
|---|---|
| Time limit | 30 minutes |
| Passing line | 45 of 50 correct (90%) |
| Languages | About 20 languages including English, varies by prefecture |
What if you fail? — The 6-month rule
If you fail the knowledge test, you must apply and take it again.
Important: if you pass the knowledge test but fail the practical test, you are exempt from retaking the knowledge test for 6 months from the date you passed it — even if you move to another prefecture. So it pays to pass the knowledge test decisively on your first attempt.
Application requirements to know
Since October 2025, a copy of your residence record (juminhyo) is required — tourists can no longer apply using a hotel address.
License holders from certain countries and regions (South Korea, Taiwan, most of Europe, some US states, etc. — around 29 jurisdictions) are exempt from both tests. Licenses from China, Vietnam and most other countries are NOT exempt.
If you already hold a valid Japanese license of another class, the knowledge test may be waived.
Phones must be switched off and stored away during the test; cheating voids your result.
How to prepare
With 45 of 50 required, you can only miss 5 questions — cramming a handful of topics is not enough. Questions typically test exact numbers (speed limits, distances in meters), whether something is mandatory or merely recommended, and exceptions to general rules.
Practice with menkyopass mock tests in the real 50-question / 30-minute format, with clear explanations for every answer. One full mock test is free.
FAQ
Q. How many questions are on Japan’s license conversion knowledge test?
A. Since October 1, 2025: 50 true/false questions in 30 minutes, with 45 correct answers (90%) required to pass.
Q. Can I take the test in English?
A. Yes, at most licensing centers. Around 20 languages are available, but the exact list varies by prefecture — confirm with your test center.
Q. What is the pass rate?
A. According to the National Police Agency, the knowledge test pass rate was 42.8% in October–December 2025, down from 92.5% before the reform.
Q. If I fail the driving test, do I retake the knowledge test?
A. No. If you reapply within 6 months of passing the knowledge test, the knowledge test is waived.
Sources: National Police Agency Directive No. 59 (Jan 8, 2026), “Handling Procedures for Foreign License Matters”; pass-rate figures published by the NPA. Last updated: July 2026.