Does Avis require an IDP in Japan?
Avis in Japan: the policy in plain terms
Requires an IDP where the national licence is not in the Roman alphabet or where local law requires it. Long-established global brand operating in 165+ countries.
Japan recognises only the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP issued in your country of residence; certain nationalities need an official JAF translation instead.
In Japan specifically, japan legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Avis will ask for it at the counter. A 1949 Geneva IDP issued in your home country is required; French, German, Swiss, Belgian, Taiwanese, Monégasque, Slovenian and Estonian licences need a JAF translation.
Avis runs a global network; at its Japan desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Japan drives on the left, uses the JPY, and sets a minimum driving age of 18, so an IDP is the document that removes any doubt at the counter.
What to bring to the Avis counter in Japan
- Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
- Your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format.
- Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
- Local payment for the JPY deposit; Japan drives on the left with a young-driver surcharge under 25.
Driving rules in Japan Avis renters should know
- Drive on the left.
- Zero-tolerance alcohol law — severe penalties.
- Stop fully at all railway crossings.
- Expressway tolls via ETC or cash.