If you are visiting Japan from Poland and want to drive, your Polish licence alone is not enough. You must prepare a valid 1949 Geneva Convention IDP — in the 1949 format.

The Japan National Police Agency allows visitors to drive with a Japanese licence, a 1949 Geneva IDP, or a designated-country licence with an official Japanese translation. For Poland, the route is the 1949 Geneva IDP. (Japan National Police Agency)

Polish Travelers Need a 1949 Geneva Convention IDP

Japan recognises only IDPs in the 1949 Geneva format; 1968 Vienna-format IDPs are not valid in Japan. (Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department)

Ask for the 1949 Geneva Format — Not the 1968 Vienna IDP

Poland issues international driving permits under both the Vienna and Geneva Convention formats. For Japan, Polish drivers must make sure they obtain the 1949 Geneva-format IDP. (Gov.pl – International Driving Permit in Poland)

What Polish Travelers Should Prepare

・A valid Polish driving licence (prawo jazdy)

・A valid 1949 Geneva Convention IDP (1949 format)

・Your passport

In general, you may drive for up to one year from your date of entry into Japan, or until your IDP expires, whichever comes first. Special rules may apply to foreign residents in Japan who leave and re-enter Japan within three months. (Japan National Police Agency)

Your IDP Must Be the Original Document

Carry the original IDP booklet with your Polish licence. Digital copies and unofficial online “permits” are not substitutes. (Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department)

Where to Get Your IDP in Poland

In Poland, apply for an international driving permit at a district office, or starostwo powiatowe. When applying, make sure you request the Geneva Convention format required for Japan. (Gov.pl – International Driving Permit in Poland)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

・Obtaining a 1968 Vienna IDP by default (not valid in Japan)

・Using an online intermediary whose document may not be officially recognised

・Bringing only a digital copy instead of the original booklet

・Forgetting to carry the original licence with the IDP and passport

・Letting the IDP or the one-year window lapse

Best Timing Before Your Trip

A 1949 IDP is valid one year from issue. Apply at your local office close enough to your trip to cover your time in Japan; the in-person process is usually quick.

FAQ: Driving in Japan with a Polish License

Q1. Can you drive in Japan with a Polish licence alone?

No. Carry a 1949 Geneva IDP, your original licence, and your passport.

Q2. Which IDP format does Japan accept?

Only the 1949 Geneva format — request this specifically, not the 1968 Vienna version.

Q3. Where do I get the IDP?

From your local government office in Poland, before travel. It cannot be issued in Japan.

Q4. How long can you drive in Japan?

In general, up to one year from your date of entry into Japan, or until your IDP expires, whichever comes first.

Q5. What should you carry while driving?

Your original Polish licence, the 1949 Geneva IDP, and your passport.

Final Takeaway

Polish drivers can drive in Japan with a 1949 Geneva-format IDP from their local government office. Confirm the format, carry the original with your licence and passport, and drive within one year of entry.