If you are visiting Japan with a Slovenian driving licence and plan to drive, rent a car, or join a Tokyo go-kart tour, you must prepare the correct International Driving Permit (IDP) before you travel. Japan’s rules are strict about the treaty type, booklet format, and the fact that you must carry the original paper permit.

Why Japan Requires a 1949 Geneva IDP (Original Booklet Only)

Japan recognizes only international driving permits issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention by an authorized agency of a contracting country. Japan’s National Police Agency also states the IDP booklet format is standardized (148 mm × 105 mm) and may be rejected if it differs significantly.

Japan does not allow driving with a digital version displayed on a phone. You must carry the original paper IDP booklet when you drive.

Can Slovenia Issue an IDP That Works in Japan?

Yes. Slovenia is listed by Japan’s National Police Agency as a contracting state to the 1949 Geneva Convention, which means a properly issued 1949 Geneva IDP from Slovenia can be valid for driving in Japan.

Which IDP Type to Request in Slovenia

Slovenia can issue two IDP types through AMZS: a 1949 Geneva booklet (valid 1 year) and a 1968 Vienna booklet (valid up to 3 years). AMZS specifically notes that the 1949 IDP is especially recommended for Japan (as well as Malaysia and the USA). For Japan, request the 1949 Geneva (1year) IDP. (AMZS)

Where to Get an IDP in Slovenia (AMZS)

AMZS (Avto-moto zveza Slovenije) issues international driving permits. AMZS states they can issue the IDP immediately if you bring the required documents. (AMZS)

Required Documents (AMZS)

AMZS lists these requirements:

・Completed application form (and a power of attorney if applying for someone else)

・Slovenian driving licence

・Passport or national ID card

・One photo, 35 × 45 mm, in physical form (AMZS)

Fees (AMZS)

AMZS lists separate prices by convention type

・IDP 1949 (Japan type): €24.00 (AMZS members: €21.60)

・IDP 1968: €31.00 (AMZS members: €27.90) (AMZS)

Validity and How Long You Can Drive in Japan

Japan applies two one-year limits at the same time: you can drive for up to one year from your entry date, and only while your IDP is still valid. The usable period is whichever becomes shorter. Japan also applies a “three-month rule” for people recorded in Japan’s resident register who leave and re-enter Japan within three months.

What to Bring for a Tokyo Go-Kart Tour (Slovenia)

・Your original Slovenian driving licence

・Your original paper IDP booklet (1949 Geneva)

・Your passport (often used to confirm entry date for the one-year window)

Common Mistakes Slovenian Travelers Should Avoid

・Getting the 1968 Vienna (3-year) IDP instead of the 1949 Geneva (Japan uses the Geneva framework).

・Bringing only a digital IDP or a phone screenshot (not accepted).

・Having unclear or missing vehicle category stamps in the IDP booklet (Japan requires the drivable vehicle type to be properly specified).

Final Checklist (Slovenia → Japan)

Before departure, confirm your IDP is the AMZS 1949 Geneva (1year) booklet, confirm you will carry the original paper IDP, and confirm your IDP vehicle category stamps are clearly marked. Then pack your IDP, Slovenian licence, and passport together so you can present them quickly in Japan.