Since 2007, I believe every Licensing Center in every prefecture has succussfully made the licensing process one step more frustrating. Now, the first time you make the trip to the Licensing Center it is merely for a preliminary document check. I don't know what moron thought of this excellent idea because some people live 3-4 hours away from the closest Center, but you must go to the center in person so they can confirm that you have all the proper documents in order. It is not necessary to make an appointment for the preliminary document check, and if all your documents check out they will then make the appointment for your actual test date.
The licensing hours are extremely strict so check your prefectural Center's times for more details. Also, keep in mind a lot of officials are pretty anal about time. If you show up even five minutes late, it has been known that some officials won't even look at your paperwork, much less give you an appointment for the test so you'll be forced to come back another day for the preliminary document check.
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND:
- Also, be advised there will most likely be no English speaker available to help you. If your documents are in order this may not be a big problem. But, if there are issues with your paperwork, you fear the risk running into the ass-of-an-official who helped me, who despite trying my best in Japanese, was told not to return to the Center again without someone who spoke fluent Japanese. To alleviate any potential problem, I would suggest bringing someone who is J-capable with you.
- Speaking of anal retention, double and triple check your documents before you make your trek. If you show up with incorrect or insufficient documentation, the first error they come to will most likely conclude the checking of your documents and you'll most likely get your ass sent home to fix the mistake. They most likely will NOT look over the rest of your documents once they find a mistake, so if they should find another mistake the next time you could make the trek to the Licensing Center 3-4 times. So, check your documents thoroughly before you go!
- Also, I would suggest preparing at least two photocopies of every document. It's easier to shred a document you don't need versus hunting around for a copier machine.
- Avoid going to the Licensing Center in June or July if at all possible. These are the months foreigners are scrambling to the Centers trying to beat the expiration date on their International Driver's License. Once you decide that you are going to stay a second year in Japan and that you'll be driving, I would suggest starting the licensing process immediately to beat the traffic.
- When is your birthday? If your birthday is coming up, keep in mind to time the test date after your birthday. Why? Your new license will expire on your third future birthday and NOT the third anniversary of the date of issue.
...onto The Exams (4 of 4)
This page was last modified on Friday, April 09, 2010 11:13:34 AM