If you hold an Italian driver’s license and you’re planning to experience a Tokyo go kart tour, this guide will help you understand how to obtain a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) in Italy that will be accepted in Japan. We rely on official Italian government sources to ensure accuracy.

Why You Need a 1949 IDP (or Valid Format) for Japan

・Japan accepts only IDPs based on the 1949 Geneva Convention.

・Some countries issue both the Geneva (1949) and Vienna (1968) versions — in Italy, both are possible. mit.gov.it+2esteri.it+2

・When traveling to Japan, make sure your IDP is explicitly the 1949 version; a Vienna-format permit will not be accepted.

・The IDP always needs to be accompanied by your valid original Italian license.

How to Obtain an IDP in Italy (Official Process)

According to the Ministero delle Infrastrutture e dei Trasporti (MIT), Italy issues two types of international driving documents:

・Permesso internazionale di guida – Convenzione di Ginevra 1949 (valid for 1 year)

・Patente internazionale – Convenzione di Vienna 1968 (valid for up to 3 years)
These are issued through Motorizzazione Civile (Vehicle Registration Offices) using the form TT746. mit.gov.it+2dgtne.it+2

Required Documents & Steps

・A valid Italian driving license

・Two identical passport-sized photos

・Application form TT746 (fill the “altre richieste” section)

・Payment via PagoPA for the official fee (approx. €10.20)

・A revenue stamp (marca da bollo) — typically €16.00 mit.gov.it

・Submit at your local Motorizzazione Civile office

Validity and Use in Japan

・The 1949 Geneva IDP is valid for 1 year from its issue date.

・The Vienna 1968 version can be valid for 3 years (or shorter, depending on your domestic license validity) mit.gov.it+2ilportaledellautomobilista.it+2

・For driving in Japan, only the 1949 version is accepted.

・You must always carry your Italian license + IDP + passport.

・Even if your IDP is valid for longer, Japan’s limit on foreign driving is up to 1 year from your entry date.

Documents Required for Japan Kart Tour in Tokyo

To legally participate in a Tokyo go kart tour with Japan Kart, bring:

1. Your Italian driver’s license
2. A valid 1949-format IDP
3. Your passport

Reservations may be invalidated if any document is missing or not acceptable.

Common Mistakes by Italian Travelers

・Assuming the Vienna-format IDP is acceptable for Japan

・Failing to bring the original Italian license

・Offering digital or photocopy versions of IDP

・Request the 1949 version explicitly

・Apply well in advance (2–3 weeks ahead)

Final Checklist & Booking Prompt

Make sure before departure:

・The IDP you request is 1949 Geneva format

・It’s issued by Motorizzazione Civile using official procedure

・You carry license + IDP + passport

・Your booking with Japan Kart will be honored without issues

Book your Tokyo go kart tour now — but don’t forget your valid 1949 IDP!