Considering a driver’s license in Tokyo? Samezu Drivers License Test Center might be in your future. It is one of only two places in Tokyo where you can convert your foreign license. The other is Fuchu Driving Test Center.
Samezu Drivers License Test Center is near Shinagawa Station. It is about 4 km away. If you arrive early, your application will be processed faster. Samezu opens at 8:30 AM. It’s unpredictable how crowded it gets.
To get to Samezu Drivers License Test Center from Shinagawa Station take the Keihin-Kyuko line. Depart from platform 3 at 7:40 AM. The train arrives at Samezu Station at 7:45 AM. Exit the gate and walk left to the center. Look for signs directing you to the Samezu Drivers License Test Center. If you follow these directions you should arrive between 7:52 and 8:05 AM.
If you need to contact Samezu Drivers License Test Center, the phone number is 03-3474-1374. Business hours are 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM. They close between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
When converting a foreign license, remember some key points. For some countries no test is needed. These include the UK, USA including Ohio, Oregon, Colorado, Virginia, Hawaii, Maryland, and Washington. Also included are Germany, France, Italy and others. But Chinese nationals must take a test.
The test has two parts. First, a computer test on traffic rules. It is available in Chinese. The second part is a driving test on a course.
Samezu Drivers License Test Center staff speak some English. Fuchu’s staff do not. Samezu has eight test routes. Fuchu only has two. Samezu has longer waiting times for test appointments.
Even with some English speakers, Japanese knowledge is helpful. For registration, a translator might be needed. During the course test, instructions are in Japanese.
Remember key safety tips for driving in Tokyo. Always stick to the side before turning. Look back before actually turning. After switching turn signals, check three places: the rearview mirror, side mirror and by turning your head. Also, understand right-of-way rules. Stop signs require a full 3-second stop. Look left, right and left again.
Adapting to driving on the left may feel strange. Many mistake the wiper lever for the turn signal.
Some practice at a driving school can be helpful. Consider a couple of hours the day before the test. There are many experience videos on YouTube and Xiaohongshu, but the test center has already outlined the test area.
If you mishear instructions during the test, don’t panic. The police know you’re a foreigner. Just circle back and try again.
Samezu Drivers License Test Center makes the process as smooth as possible. Examiners review key points with foreigners on the test day. Good luck with your license conversion.