Getting an International Driver’s License for Japan
When planning to drive overseas, it’s necessary that one possesses an international driver’s license/permit following the proper convention/format of the destination country.
My first travel to Japan was to Hokkaido. While making our itinerary, we found out that most of the places we wanted to visit were far from each other. Public transportation also wasn’t going to help much due to time and route constraints. Because of this, we decided to just drive on our own and stay at multiple cities. Unfortunately, we also had to prepare our wallets since gas and toll fee would definitely take a big bite out of our budget.
To drive in Japan, one needs an international driver’s license following the 1949 Geneva Convention. Locally, the Automobile Association of the Philippines is the one who issues this.
Although one can opt to walk-in for the application, I decided to apply online instead.
Prepare the Necessary Documents
Since I’m a Filipino citizen and will be going through the process personally, I only need items 1, 2 and 5. Aside from the ones above, I will also need the OR of my driver’s license.
Note: If you’re planning to apply online, you will only need the scanned copy of the items above. On my visit to the office, I submitted my Driver’s License and not the other requirements. However, it might still be a good idea to just bring the original/photocopies of the others as well.
Submit an Application Online for International Driver’s License
Once you have the documents prepared electronically, visit this link to start the online application process.
Near the end of the process, you will have to upload scanned copies of your 2 by 2 picture, driver’s license, and the OR.
When done, you will receive a confirmation page with your reference number. Take note of the number as you will need to present this at the reception.
Visit an AAP Office Near You To Pay and To Finish the Application Process
Since I’m from Valenzuela, the nearest AAP office would be at Quezon City (main office). Processing at the main office is done within the day, unlike the other branches which takes 2-3 days.
Their office is located right across Princeton Residences and their building houses EastWest bank on the ground floor. Once you enter, you will be asked to register and surrender one ID (make sure it’s not your driver’s license) in exchange for a visitor pass. Proceed to the reception on the 3rd floor and mention that you’re there for PIDP application.
Note: From the escalator going up, take a left and you will see a room with steel chairs similar to the airport’s. That’s the processing room. The reception is actually outside to your left. See that brown table up there? That’s it!
Because I applied online, I could proceed directly to Window 3 and submit my Driver’s License and Reference Number.
Note: I arrived at around 10:30 am and there were less than 10 of us. My friend came in the afternoon and her process took longer. Might be a good idea to come in the morning instead!
After waiting for around 20-25 minutes, I was asked to sign my PIDP booklet. Next, I had to pay PHP 3,920.00 at the cashier. For this amount, your PIDP will be valid for 1 year. When done, wait for a few more minutes for the release.
Note: They accept Visa and Mastercard credit cards!
In total, I got my PIDP in less than an hour!
Note: When you apply for PIDP, you will also be a member of AAP automatically. This is actually a requirement BEFORE you can get a PIDP. Some benefits to being a member are the travel insurance and roadside assistance.
And that’s it! Be sure to observe traffic rules and to drive safely regardless of where you are!
