If you are visiting Japan from Monaco and plan to drive, you will use your Monégasque licence plus an official Japanese translation — not an International Driving Permit.

The Japan National Police Agency recognises a Japanese licence, a 1949 Geneva Convention IDP, or — for designated jurisdictions including Monaco — a home licence with an official Japanese translation. (Japan National Police Agency)

Monégasque Drivers Use a Japanese Translation, Not an IDP

Monaco is a party to the 1949 Geneva Convention, but it does not issue Geneva-format International Driving Permits. Since Japan recognises only Geneva-format IDPs, a Monaco IDP is not valid in Japan. Monaco licence holders therefore use their licence with an official Japanese translation. (Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department)

The Translation Must Come From an Authorised Body

Only a translation from a body designated under Japanese law is accepted. For Monaco licenses, authorized issuers include JAF and the Visit Japan Driver’s Support Association, also known as ALADDIN. (Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department)

What Monégasque Travelers Should Prepare

・A valid Monaco driving licence

・An official Japanese translation of that licence (from an authorised body)

・Your passport

In general, you may drive for up to one year from your date of entry into Japan, or until your Monaco license 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)

Where to Get Your Japanese Translation

The most reliable option is JAF (including its online service) or Ziplus in Japan; Monaco’s consular office may also be able to provide guidance, but travelers should confirm availability directly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

・Assuming a Monaco IDP works in Japan (it does not)

・Using an unauthorised translation

・Carrying the translation without the original licence

・Forgetting your passport

・Driving past the one-year-from-entry period

Best Timing Before Your Trip

Arrange the translation before your trip if possible. If you plan to apply through JAF after arriving in Japan, check the processing time in advance and avoid leaving it until the last minute.

FAQ: Driving in Japan with a Monaco License

Q1. Is a Monaco IDP valid in Japan?

No. Use your Monaco licence with an official Japanese translation instead.

Q2. What do Monégasque drivers need?

A valid Monaco licence, an official Japanese translation, and a passport.

Q3. Who can make the translation?

JAF or the Visit Japan Driver’s Support Association, also known as ALADDIN.

Q4. How long can you drive?

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

Q5. What should you carry while driving?

Your Monaco licence, the official Japanese translation, and your passport.

Final Takeaway

For Monaco, use the Japanese-translation route, not an IDP. Obtain an official translation from an authorised body such as JAF, and carry it with your licence and passport within the one-year window.