Planning your trip to Japan and excited to explore Tokyo’s streets by go-kart? Whether you’re cruising through Shibuya, Harajuku, or Odaiba, driving in Japan can be an unforgettable highlight of your journey.

If you hold a Norwegian driver’s license, this article explains how to get the right International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive legally in Japan.

Why Japan Only Accepts the 1949 Geneva IDP

Japan recognizes only the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic.

IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention, digital-only formats, or “instant IDPs” from unofficial websites are not valid in Japan.

This rule applies to all vehicles — including rental cars, motorcycles, and public road go-karts.

As a signatory of the 1949 Geneva Convention, Norway issues IDPs that meet Japan’s requirements when issued in the correct format.

How to Apply for an IDP in Norway (Official Process)

If you live in Norway and hold a valid Norwegian driver’s license, you can apply for an IDP through one of the officially recognized automobile associations:

・Norges Automobil-forbund (NAF)

・You can apply through their official websites:NAF or KNA

Requirements:

・Must hold a valid Norwegian driver’s license (age 18+)

・One passport-sized photo

・Application form (available from NAF/KNA)

・Application fee (varies slightly by provider)

・The IDP must clearly state it follows the 1949 Geneva Convention

Validity:

・The IDP is valid for 1 year from the date of issue

・You may drive in Japan for up to 1 year from your entry date (if the IDP remains valid)

Validity and Use in Japan

To drive in Japan using your Norwegian license:

・Bring both your Norwegian driver’s license and your 1949 Geneva IDP (booklet format)

・Keep your passport with you to verify your entry date

・The 1968 Vienna-type IDP, even if issued in Norway, is not accepted in Japan

・Japan’s driving limit for foreign visitors is one year from your arrival date

Documents Required to Drive a Go-Kart in Japan

Before joining a go-kart tour such as Japan Kart, you must bring:

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

If any document is missing or invalid, your booking will be refused. Digital copies or smartphone photos are not accepted.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

・Bringing a 1968 Vienna-type IDP (invalid in Japan)

・Forgetting your original Norwegian license

・Using an expired IDP or one older than one year

・Carrying only digital images or photocopies

・Not verifying IDP acceptance with your go-kart provider before booking

Final Checklist & Booking Prompt

・Confirm your IDP is issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention

・ Bring your Norwegian license, IDP, and passport

・ Check your IDP’s expiry before travel

・ Ensure your go-kart operator accepts international licenses

Got your 1949-format IDP ready? Don’t wait! Book your unforgettable Tokyo go-kart experience with Japan Kart today!