Japan Driver’s License Practical Exam Guide: Karimenkyo & Gaimen Kirikae
The article explains what students should expect before, during, and after the practical examination, with additional emphasis on blind intersections (見通しの悪い交差点), safety confirmation, pedestrian priority, and correct driving procedures under Japanese traffic rules.
Introduction
Obtaining a Japanese driver’s license requires more than knowing how to operate a vehicle. You must demonstrate that you understand Japanese traffic rules, recognize potential hazards, and can operate a vehicle safely and confidently.
Whether you are applying for a Learner’s Permit (Karimenkyo / 仮免許) or converting your foreign driver’s license through Gaimen Kirikae (外免切替), the practical examination is an important step toward obtaining your Japanese driver’s license.
Both examinations are generally conducted on designated driving courses at driver’s license examination centers. Your driving skills, safety awareness, observation, vehicle positioning, and compliance with traffic rules will be evaluated.
This guide accompanies our Japan Driver’s License Center – Practical Exam Guide infographic and explains the procedures and driving techniques that you should understand before taking your examination.
Important: Japan follows left-hand traffic, and examination vehicles are generally right-hand drive. Always follow the examiner’s instructions, traffic signs, and the specific requirements of your examination center.
1. BEFORE THE EXAMINATION
1.1 Check In at the Driver’s License Center
Arrive at the driver’s license center before your scheduled examination time.
Proceed to the designated reception counter and complete the necessary check-in procedures.
Prepare the documents required for your examination, which may include your identification, examination application, learner’s permit, or foreign driver’s license conversion documents.
Our recommendation: Arrive early enough to complete reception procedures without rushing.
1.2 Attend the Examination Briefing
Before the practical examination begins, an examiner or examination center staff member will explain the examination procedures.
Depending on the examination, the briefing may include:
The assigned driving course and route.
Examination rules and instructions.
Procedures for starting and finishing.
Important safety requirements.
How the examiner will provide directions.
If a course map is available, familiarize yourself with the route.
You do not necessarily need to memorize every turn, but understanding the course helps you anticipate intersections, curves, railway crossings, and other driving tasks.
EDS Tip: Familiarize yourself with the driving environment rather than concentrating only on memorizing the route.
1.3 Prepare Yourself and Your Vehicle
Before entering the examination vehicle, check your surroundings.
Look for pedestrians, approaching vehicles, and potential obstacles around the car.
Because Japanese examination vehicles generally have the steering wheel on the right, you will enter through the driver’s door on the right-hand side of the vehicle.
Before opening the door, check for approaching traffic from behind.
Once inside:
Close and secure the door.
Adjust your seat and backrest.
Adjust the rearview and side mirrors.
Fasten your seat belt.
Confirm the parking brake and gear position.
Prepare to start the engine according to the vehicle and examiner’s instructions.
Make sure you can comfortably operate the accelerator, brake, steering wheel, and clutch if driving a manual-transmission vehicle.
2. DURING THE PRACTICAL EXAMINATION
The examiner evaluates not only your ability to control the vehicle but also how consistently you recognize hazards and apply Japanese traffic rules.
2.1 Starting and Moving Off
Before moving the vehicle, carry out appropriate safety checks.
Check your surroundings, rearview mirror, side mirrors, and blind spots.
Signal in the direction of your intended movement when required.
Before departing:
Check that your intended path is clear.
Confirm that no vehicle or pedestrian is approaching.
Perform the necessary mirror and shoulder checks.
Release the parking brake when ready.
Move off smoothly when safe.
Avoid sudden acceleration or unnecessary delays.
Remember: Safety confirmation should be completed immediately before moving. Looking once and then waiting several seconds without checking again may leave you unaware of changing traffic conditions.
2.2 Driving on the Left Side
Japan follows the left-hand traffic system.
You must maintain the correct lane position, obey traffic signs, and follow the applicable speed limit.
On ordinary two-way roads, keep to the left side of the roadway unless road markings, turning requirements, or other traffic conditions require otherwise.
Maintain appropriate clearance from the roadside without driving unnecessarily close to the centerline.
EDS Tip: Good vehicle positioning demonstrates that you understand the road environment and can control the vehicle safely.
3. PASSING A BLIND INTERSECTION
見通しの悪い交差点 (Mitooshi no Warui Kousaten)
One of the most important skills to master is safely approaching and passing a blind intersection.
A blind intersection is a junction where your view of approaching vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists is restricted.
This may happen because of:
Buildings or high walls near the intersection.
Trees, hedges, or fences blocking visibility.
Parked vehicles or other obstacles.
Narrow roads with limited sightlines.
Blind intersections require particular attention because another vehicle or pedestrian may enter your path before you can see them clearly.
3.1 How to Approach a Blind Intersection
Step 1: Recognize the intersection early.
Look ahead and identify whether the intersection has traffic lights, stop signs, road markings, or limited visibility.
Begin reducing your speed before reaching the intersection.
Step 2: Slow down sufficiently.
At an intersection without traffic control where visibility to the left and right is obstructed, drivers generally must proceed at a speed that allows an immediate stop, unless an applicable legal exception applies, such as travelling on a priority road.
This is called 徐行 (Jokō).
Jokō does not mean driving at one fixed speed. It means travelling slowly enough to stop immediately when necessary.
Step 3: Check both directions.
Before entering the intersection, actively check for approaching traffic.
Look to the right, left, and ahead as appropriate.
Pay attention to bicycles and pedestrians, especially those approaching from behind walls or other obstructions.
Step 4: Stop when required.
If there is a STOP sign (止まれ), bring the vehicle to a complete stop before the stop line.
A slow rolling movement is not considered a complete stop.
After stopping, check the intersection carefully.
Step 5: Improve visibility safely.
If your view remains blocked, proceed forward very slowly, only when safe, until you can see approaching traffic more clearly.
Stop again if necessary.
Do not allow the front of your vehicle to enter the path of approaching traffic without confirming that it is safe.
Step 6: Proceed when safe.
After checking for vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians, proceed smoothly through the intersection.
Continue observing your surroundings while crossing.
Important: Not Every Blind Intersection Requires a Complete Stop
A blind intersection does not automatically require a full stop.
A complete stop is mandatory when required by a stop sign, traffic signal, or other applicable rule.
However, slowing sufficiently is generally required at uncontrolled intersections with restricted visibility, subject to the relevant legal exceptions.
Even when stopping is not legally required, you must stop if necessary to prevent a collision.
EDS Training Point: Students should learn to recognize the difference between a required complete stop and a required slow approach. They should never enter an intersection without sufficient visibility and safety confirmation.
4. CROSSING AN INTERSECTION WITHOUT TRAFFIC LIGHTS
An uncontrolled intersection is a junction without traffic signals or other traffic control.
These intersections frequently require careful observation and an understanding of right-of-way rules.
Correct Procedure
1. Approach carefully.
Identify the intersection and reduce speed as necessary.
2. Observe road markings and signs.
Determine whether you are approaching from a priority road or a road where you must yield.
3. Check for approaching vehicles.
Look to the left and right, as well as ahead.
4. Give priority when required.
Do not assume that you have priority simply because you arrived first.
Japanese traffic rules include specific priority requirements involving priority roads, road width, and vehicles approaching from the left, depending on the circumstances.
5. Cross safely.
Proceed only when you can do so without interfering with traffic that has priority.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Entering an intersection too quickly.
Failing to check both directions.
Assuming that another vehicle will stop.
Ignoring priority-road markings.
Stopping unnecessarily in a position that creates danger.
Failing to yield to pedestrians or cyclists.
EDS Tip: Even if the examination course appears empty, demonstrate the same observation and decision-making procedures you would use on a public road.
5. TURNING LEFT AND RIGHT
Correct turning procedures are essential for both Karimenkyo and Gaimen Kirikae examinations.
5.1 Making a Left Turn
When preparing to turn left:
Check the traffic situation behind and around your vehicle.
Activate the left-turn signal approximately 30 meters before the intersection.
Position the vehicle close to the left edge of the roadway where safe and appropriate.
Reduce your speed sufficiently.
Check the left mirror and left blind spot for bicycles and other road users.
Check for pedestrians crossing the road you intend to enter.
Turn left slowly, following the appropriate path near the left edge.
Pay particular attention to cyclists who may approach from behind on your left.
Important: Do not make a wide left turn unnecessarily. Follow the road layout and maintain a safe turning path without cutting into pedestrian or bicycle space.
5.2 Making a Right Turn
When preparing to turn right:
Check the surrounding traffic.
Activate the right-turn signal approximately 30 meters before the intersection.
Position the vehicle near the centerline of a two-way roadway, or near the right edge of a one-way roadway, as appropriate.
Reduce speed.
Check for oncoming vehicles and pedestrians.
Follow the correct turning path, passing just inside the center of the intersection where applicable.
Enter the appropriate receiving lane according to road markings and traffic conditions.
Do not turn across the path of approaching vehicles when doing so would interfere with their movement.
Remember the Signalling Rules
Turning: Signal approximately 30 meters before the intersection.
Changing lanes or course: Signal approximately three seconds before beginning the sideways movement.
If you must change lanes before turning, plan both actions early enough to complete them safely.
6. PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS
横断歩道 (Oudanhodō)
Pedestrians have priority at designated pedestrian crossings.
When approaching a pedestrian crossing without traffic control, you must drive at a speed that allows you to stop before the crossing unless it is clear that no pedestrian is crossing or about to cross.
If a pedestrian is crossing or intends to cross, you must stop before the crossing or its stop line and give way.
Correct Procedure
Look ahead for pedestrian-crossing signs and road markings.
Observe pedestrians near both sides of the crossing.
Reduce speed as required.
Stop before the crossing when someone is crossing or about to cross.
Proceed only after it is safe.
Never assume that a pedestrian will wait for your vehicle.
EDS Tip: A correct pedestrian-crossing procedure demonstrates both hazard recognition and respect for vulnerable road users.
7. DRIVING THROUGH THE S-CURVE
S字コース (S-ji Course)
The S-curve is a narrow, winding driving section designed to evaluate steering control, vehicle positioning, and low-speed driving ability.
The road contains consecutive curves requiring careful steering adjustments.
Correct Procedure
Approach slowly.
Look ahead toward the direction of travel.
Maintain a controlled, low speed.
Allow sufficient clearance for the rear wheels.
Steer smoothly without sudden movements.
Avoid touching or mounting the curb.
For automatic vehicles, use the brake to control low-speed movement, applying accelerator input when necessary.
For manual vehicles, use appropriate first-gear and clutch control.
If You Are Too Close to the Curb
Stop before the tire mounts or falls off the edge.
Check your surroundings and reverse carefully if a correction is needed and permitted.
Then reposition the vehicle and continue safely.
Remember: Curb contact or leaving the course can result in deductions or examination termination, depending on the circumstances and applicable assessment standards.
8. DRIVING THROUGH THE CRANK COURSE
クランクコース (Kuranku Course)
The crank is a narrow driving section containing sharp, approximately 90-degree bends.
Unlike the S-curve, which uses continuous curves, the crank requires more pronounced changes in steering direction.
Correct Procedure
Approach the entrance slowly.
Position the vehicle appropriately before entering.
Steer carefully through the first bend.
Allow clearance for the vehicle’s rear wheels and front corners.
Straighten or adjust the steering as necessary.
Prepare for the next bend.
Check for traffic and pedestrians before exiting.
Avoid focusing only on the front of the vehicle.
Consider the path followed by the rear wheels, especially when making tight turns.
EDS Tip: Slow vehicle movement gives you more time to observe the available clearance and make accurate steering adjustments.
9. OBSTACLE AVOIDANCE
障害物回避 (Shōgaibutsu Kaihi)
The obstacle-avoidance section evaluates your ability to recognize an obstruction and safely change your course.
For example, an obstacle may be positioned on the left side of your driving lane.
Correct Procedure
Step 1: Identify the obstacle early and check ahead for oncoming traffic.
Step 2: Check your rearview mirror and right-side mirror.
Step 3: Activate the right-turn signal.
Step 4: Recheck the mirrors and right blind spot. Allow the appropriate signalling time before changing course.
Step 5: Move smoothly to the right, keeping sufficient clearance from the obstacle.
Step 6: After passing the obstacle, activate the left-turn signal.
Step 7: Check your rearview mirror, left-side mirror, and left blind spot.
Step 8: Return smoothly to your original lane when safe.
Step 9: Cancel the turn signal if it does not switch off automatically.
Maintain an appropriate passing distance based on the type of obstacle and available road space.
Never move into the path of oncoming vehicles simply to avoid an obstruction.
10. RAILWAY CROSSINGS
踏切 (Fumikiri)
Railway crossings are important examination elements because drivers must demonstrate awareness of train movements and the dangers of stopping on railway tracks.
Correct Procedure
STOP → LOOK → LISTEN → PROCEED SAFELY
Approach the crossing slowly.
Stop before the crossing as required by Japanese traffic rules.
Look both ways and listen for approaching trains.
Check that the warning devices and barriers permit passage.
Confirm that there is enough space on the far side to clear the tracks.
Cross smoothly without stopping unnecessarily.
For manual-transmission vehicles, avoid changing gears while crossing.
Do not enter if the warning is active, barriers are closing, or the exit is blocked.
A stop is not required in certain legally specified situations, such as where traffic signals permit crossing; always follow the applicable controls.
Important: Railway-crossing tasks are relevant to both Karimenkyo and the current Gaimen Kirikae skills assessment, depending on the assigned course.
11. HILL START AND HILL DESCENT
坂道発進 (Sakamichi Hasshin)
A hill-start exercise evaluates your ability to stop and restart on an incline without dangerous rollback.
Uphill Procedure
Approach the designated stopping position.
Stop completely at the required location.
Hold the vehicle securely using the brake.
Prepare the appropriate gear and driving controls.
Check that the path ahead is clear.
Release the brake and accelerate smoothly without rolling backward.
For manual-transmission vehicles, use appropriate clutch and accelerator control. A parking brake can assist in maintaining a secure hold.
For automatic vehicles, maintain proper brake control until ready to move forward.
Downhill Procedure
Select an appropriate gear and control your speed.
Use engine braking where appropriate and apply the foot brake smoothly as necessary.
Do not coast downhill in neutral.
EDS Tip: The objective is controlled vehicle movement, not rapid acceleration.
12. COMPLETING THE EXAMINATION
At the end of the driving course, the examiner will direct you to a designated stopping location.
Correct Procedure
Check your surroundings.
Signal when required.
Approach the stopping location slowly.
Stop at the instructed position.
Apply the parking brake.
Select the appropriate gear position.
Switch off the engine as instructed.
Remove your seat belt.
Check for approaching traffic before opening the driver’s door.
Exit carefully from the right side of the vehicle.
Always follow the examiner’s instructions regarding final vehicle positioning and parking procedures.
Remember that safety remains important until you have exited the vehicle and reached a safe location.
13. AFTER THE EXAMINATION
Once the practical examination has concluded, follow the examiner’s or examination center’s instructions regarding your results.
If You Pass
Congratulations!
For Karimenkyo applicants, follow the procedures for receiving your learner’s permit and completing the remaining steps toward obtaining your full driver’s license.
For Gaimen Kirikae applicants, follow the licensing center’s instructions for completing the foreign-license conversion procedure and receiving your Japanese driver’s license.
If You Do Not Pass
Do not become discouraged.
The practical examination evaluates specific driving behaviors. Understanding your mistakes can help you improve before your next attempt.
Review the examiner’s feedback and identify the areas that require further practice.
Common areas for improvement include:
Insufficient safety confirmation.
Incorrect lane positioning.
Late or incorrect signalling.
Improper left or right turns.
Incomplete stops.
Insufficient observation at intersections.
Difficulty with the S-curve or crank.
Incorrect pedestrian-crossing procedures.
Consider additional driving lessons to correct weaknesses before scheduling another examination.
14. IMPORTANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN KARIMENKYO AND GAIMEN KIRIKAE
Although the two examinations share many practical driving requirements, their purpose and administrative procedures are different.
Karimenkyo (Learner’s Permit)
The Karimenkyo examination evaluates whether an applicant has acquired the basic knowledge and driving ability required to progress toward supervised public-road training.
It includes fundamental vehicle-control and safety-related exercises.
Successful applicants must complete the remaining licensing requirements before obtaining a full Japanese driver’s license.
Gaimen Kirikae (Foreign License Conversion)
Gaimen Kirikae allows eligible holders of foreign driving licenses to apply for conversion to a Japanese driver’s license.
Depending on the issuing country or jurisdiction and the applicant’s circumstances, knowledge and practical skills assessments may be required or exempted.
Since October 1, 2025, Japan has strengthened its foreign-license conversion assessment, including additional practical driving requirements and stricter evaluation of certain driving behaviors.
Important: Do not assume that the Gaimen Kirikae examination is simply a shorter or easier version of the Karimenkyo examination.
Both require an appropriate understanding of Japanese traffic rules and safe driving procedures.
15. FINAL CHECKLIST BEFORE YOUR PRACTICAL EXAM
Before taking your practical examination, make sure you can confidently demonstrate the following skills:
✅ Checking the surroundings before entering the vehicle.
✅ Adjusting your seat, mirrors, and seat belt.
✅ Starting the engine and moving off safely.
✅ Driving on the left side and maintaining appropriate lane positioning.
✅ Using turn signals correctly and at the proper time.
✅ Checking mirrors and blind spots before changing course.
✅ Approaching blind intersections at an appropriate speed.
✅ Stopping completely when required.
✅ Understanding right-of-way rules at uncontrolled intersections.
✅ Turning left and right with correct vehicle positioning.
✅ Giving priority to pedestrians at pedestrian crossings.
✅ Driving smoothly through the S-curve and crank.
✅ Avoiding obstacles while maintaining safe clearance.
✅ Crossing railway tracks safely.
✅ Performing controlled hill starts and descents.
✅ Stopping, securing, and exiting the vehicle safely.
EDS International Driving School — Our Advice
The purpose of the practical examination is not simply to complete the assigned driving route.
It is to demonstrate that you can recognize hazards, make safe decisions, follow Japanese traffic rules, and control the vehicle responsibly.
Remember these five principles:
1. OBSERVE: Check your surroundings continuously.
2. ANTICIPATE: Identify potential hazards before reaching them.
3. SIGNAL: Communicate your intended movements correctly.
4. POSITION: Maintain the proper vehicle position throughout the course.
5. CONTROL: Drive smoothly and at a speed appropriate for the situation.
A successful driving examination begins with good preparation, consistent safety awareness, and correct driving habits.
Practice With EDS International Driving School
At EDS International Driving School, we provide practical driving lessons designed to help students prepare for Japanese driver’s license examinations.
Our training focuses on safe driving techniques, understanding Japanese traffic rules, and developing the skills needed for the practical examination.
Whether you are preparing for your first learner’s permit examination or converting a foreign driver’s license, our instructors can help you identify areas for improvement and practice the driving procedures required for your examination.
Learn. Practice. Drive with Confidence in Japan.
EDS International Driving School
Visit our website: https://www.eds-jp.com
Disclaimer: This article is an educational reference and does not replace official examination instructions. Examination procedures, scoring standards, routes, and required driving tasks may vary depending on the examination type and center. Always follow the instructions of the relevant driver’s license center and examiner.
Official references
The article’s traffic-law explanations and examination updates are supported by the following official resources:
National Police Agency — Rules of the Road
National Police Agency — Foreign License Conversion
Tokyo Metropolitan Police — Karimenkyo Examination
Tokyo Metropolitan Police — Foreign License Conversion
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