Stage 1: Learner’s Permit Examination (仮免許)

Student Guide | EDS International Driving School

After enrolling at EDS International Driving School, your first step is to check and prepare the learner’s permit (仮免許 / Karimenkyo) examination requirements at the Driver’s License Examination Center in your prefecture of residence.

As EDS is a non-designated driving school, students must take their official written and practical examinations at the designated examination center.

1. Where and How to Apply

Tokyo (東京都) — Advance Booking Required

• Examination centers: Fuchu or Samezu

• Booking: Online reservation required for the written examination.

• Tokyo Official Examination Booking⁠

Saitama (埼玉県) — Advance Booking Required

• Examination center: Konosu Driver’s License Center

• Booking: Online reservation required for the written examination. Select your examination language and preferred date.

• Saitama Online Reservation⁠

Chiba (千葉県) — Direct Application

• Examination center: Chiba Driver’s License Center

• Address: 2-1 Hamada, Mihama-ku, Chiba-shi

• Written examination reception: Weekdays, 8:30–9:00 a.m.

• Google Maps – Chiba License Center⁠

Important: Advance reservations are scheduled to become necessary from January 4, 2027. Check the latest procedures before visiting.

Kanagawa / Yokohama (神奈川県) — Direct Application

• Examination center: Kanagawa Driver’s License Center (Futamatagawa)

• Address: 1-1-1 Nakao, Asahi-ku, Yokohama

• Written examination reception: Weekdays, 1:00–1:30 p.m.

• Google Maps – Kanagawa License Center⁠

The practical examination requires a separate reservation.

2. Required Documents

Prepare the following, as applicable:

• Resident Record (住民票 / Juminhyo) with required nationality or registered-domicile details

• Valid identification (passport or other accepted ID)

• Residence Card (在留カード), if applicable

• ID photograph (3.0 × 2.4 cm)

• Existing driver’s license, if applicable

• Examination application form

• Examination fees

• Booking confirmation, where required

• Glasses or contact lenses, if necessary

Note: Document requirements vary by prefecture and applicant category. Check the official instructions before attending.

3. Examination Process

1. Book or apply at your prefectural examination center.

2. Prepare your documents and complete the aptitude/eyesight examination.

3. Pass the written examination — generally 50 questions, with at least 45 correct answers required.

4. Pass the practical examination at the closed driving course.

5. Receive your learner’s permit (仮免許証) after completing the required procedures.

4. Important Reminder for EDS Students

We recommend arranging your examination schedule early, especially in Tokyo and Saitama, where advance booking is required.

Continue studying the Stage 1 theory materials and schedule practical driving lessons with EDS to prepare for the examination.

Once you have confirmed your examination date, please inform EDS of your progress.

EDS International Driving School

Helping you prepare for your Japanese driver’s license.

Information updated: November 2026. Procedures may change without notice. Always

confirm the latest requirements with your prefectural police examination center.