Driving in Japan - Cheapest Place to Purchase The IDP?

escusemay on 07/02/2020 - 19:24

Hi everyone,

We're heading to Japan in a few weeks and was wondering where the cheapest place is to obtain an IDP (International Driving Permit)?

I saw a website called ITA - International Driver's License who appear to be well priced but after reading some comments, it appears they are not accepted in Japan.

Upon further searching, it looks like RACQ (I'm in QLD) may be the only option which costs about $51 posted.

Does anyone have experience with other places to obtain a legit IDP that's cheaper?

Thanks,

Comments

crentist on 07/02/2020 - 19:32

+4

Just do RACQ. These things are bs but they need to come from a regulated source.
Japan won't take the cheap ones.
holdenmg on 07/02/2020 - 19:59

SmartTraveller https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/before-you-go/getting-aroun…

says $42+Postage @ https://www.internationaldrivingpermitsonline.com.au/
or RACQ (if urgent)
thatonethere on 07/02/2020 - 21:05

I did the NRMA one a few weeks back. $42.

Do it on mobile as the form wants your photo. You get a paper driving permit in the mail. Avis didnt give it much a look when i picked up the car but allegedly some euro cops will scam you for fines if you don't have one.
donbot on 08/02/2020 - 08:56

I did it at RACV in VIC back in sept. $42 in store.

Definitely need it for Japan. Both places we hired a car from required the IDP.
escusemay on 08/02/2020 - 17:52

Thanks everyone. RACQ it is since I’m in QLD.