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Pass Rates for Japan's Foreign-License Conversions Drop to 43% on Knowledge and 13% on Skills After October Overhaul

The National Police Agency tightened the process after lawmakers argued the prior checks were too easy.

Overview

  • In October–December 2025, 27,354 people took the knowledge check and 11,716 passed, a 42.8% rate, according to the National Police Agency.
  • The knowledge test was expanded from 10 true/false items to 50 questions requiring at least 45 correct answers.
  • The on-site driving assessment added specific confirmation points such as checks at crosswalks and railroad crossings, and its pass rate was about 13% in the period.
  • The 2024 knowledge check pass rate was 92.5%, highlighting the steep decline under the stricter rules.
  • The figures, released on March 2, detail the immediate impact of the October 2025 revisions on applicants seeking to convert foreign licenses.