How I Renewed My Japanese Driver’s License at Koto Driving License Center (Step-by-Step Guide 2026)

By Sreekumar-BA / Jun 07, 2026 / Highlight, Living in Japan, Drivers License
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How I Renewed My Japanese Driver's License at Koto Driving License Center (Step-by-Step Guide 2026)

Recently I renewed my Japanese driver's license at the Koto Driving License Center in Tokyo, and I thought I'd share my experience to help others who may be going through the process for the first time.

Receiving the Renewal Notice and Booking an Appointment

A few months before my license renewal period, I received a driver's license renewal notice by mail.

The renewal notice contained important information about my renewal period and included a QR code for making an appointment.

Using the QR code, I accessed the online reservation system and selected a convenient date and time for my renewal at the Koto Driving License Center.

After completing the reservation, I received a booking confirmation with a QR code, which I later used during the check-in process at the renewal center.

I would recommend making an appointment as early as possible, especially if you prefer a specific date and time slot.

Driver License Renewal Appointment Process

Getting There

I traveled to Toyocho Station (東陽町駅) and used Exit 3. The Koto Driving License Center is just a short walk from the station and easy to find.

Step 1: Initial Check-In

Upon arrival, I went to the first counter where the staff directed me to a card reader machine.

At the machine, I:

  • Inserted my current driver's license
  • Scanned my appointment QR code
  • Registered a 4-digit PIN for the IC chip embedded in the driver's license

This PIN helps protect the personal information stored electronically on the license card. You may be asked to enter two 4-digit PINs, and many people simply use the same number for both.

Although most drivers rarely use these PINs after renewal, they may be required for certain administrative procedures involving the IC chip information stored on the license.

The machine printed:

  • Two sheets containing my renewal details
  • One questionnaire sheet

The questionnaire contained a few simple questions. I answered "No" to all of them.

Driver License Renewal Check-In and Payment

Step 2: Payment

Next, I proceeded to Counter 0 to pay the renewal fee.

After payment, I went to the green counter where the staff reviewed my documents and prepared the file for the next stage.

At this point, I was asked to present:

  • My driver's license
  • My Residence Card

The staff confirmed my name and address details.

Step 3: Vision Test

I then moved to:

  • Counter 7 for the eyesight test
  • Counter 8
  • Counter 9

After Counter 9, I was asked to return to the green counter. I believe this was because I have a long foreign name. The staff requested confirmation of my Kana name before proceeding.

Driver License Renewal Eye Test and Photo

Step 4: Photo

After the name confirmation, I proceeded to Counter 10 where my photograph was taken.

I then received an important slip. Make sure to keep this slip safely as you will need it later to collect your new license.

Step 5: Safety Lecture

Next, I went to the second floor.

After showing the slip, I received:

  • A traffic safety lecture booklet
  • Directions to Room 4

The staff directed me to Room 4 for the safety lecture.

The lecture lasted approximately one hour and covered safe driving practices and recent traffic regulations.

Step 6: Collecting the New License

Once the lecture was completed, I went to the 4th Floor.

I showed the slip received after the photo session and was handed my newly renewed driver's license.

Driver License Renewal Lecture and New License

Address Change Information

If you have changed your address since your last license renewal, make sure to update the address during the renewal process.

You will need to bring a Juminhyo (住民票 / Certificate of Residence) as proof of your current address.

The staff will verify the details and update the address information on your driver's license before completing the renewal.

To avoid delays, it is recommended to obtain the Juminhyo before visiting the Driving License Center.

Documents to Bring

  • Current Driver's License
  • License Renewal Notice
  • Appointment QR Code
  • Residence Card
  • Payment Method (Cash, Credit Card, or Debit Card depending on the center)
  • Glasses or Contact Lenses (if required for driving)
  • Juminhyo (if your address has changed)

Total Time

The entire process took approximately 2 hours from start to finish, including the one-hour safety lecture.

Tips

  • Arrive a little before your appointment time.
  • Bring your current driver's license and Residence Card.
  • Keep the slip provided after the photo session.
  • If you have a long foreign name, be prepared to confirm your Kana spelling.
  • Bring a Juminhyo if your address has changed.
  • Keep a record of your 4-digit PIN in a safe place.
  • Follow the counter numbers carefully; the process is very organized.
  • Listen for announcements during the lecture and keep your documents with you.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the renewal process at the Koto Driving License Center was smooth, efficient, and well organized.

If it is your first time renewing a Japanese driver's license, there is no need to worry. Simply follow the instructions provided by the staff, move from counter to counter as directed, and keep your documents and slip safe throughout the process.

I hope this guide helps others preparing for their license renewal in Tokyo.

Happy and safe driving! 🚗

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