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Ever dreamed of driving a go-kart through the heart of Tokyo, dressed as your favorite character and cruising past famous landmarks? To drive in Tokyo, you'll need to obtain a U.S. International Driving Permit (IDP).
But before you rev up the engine, there's one essential thing you need: an International Driving Permit (IDP). In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about getting your international driving permit USA for Japan—because without it, you won’t be able to join the ride!
While go-karts may feel like a theme park activity, they’re classified as motor vehicles in Japan and are subject to the same road rules as cars. That means you must be legally licensed to drive on public roads.
For U.S. citizens, a valid U.S. driver’s license alone is not enough. You must also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in accordance with the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic.
At Monkey Kart, safety and compliance come first. We require all foreign drivers to present both their original driver’s license and a valid IDP before joining any of our tours.
You can apply for an IDP if:
You have a valid U.S. driver’s license (non-expired)
You’re 18 years or older
You’re applying while still in the U.S.
???? IMPORTANT: You must obtain your IDP before you arrive in Japan. Japan does not issue IDPs to foreigners, and you can’t get one once you’re in the country.
Only two organizations are authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue IDPs:
AAA (American Automobile Association)
AATA (American Automobile Touring Alliance)
⚠️ Beware of unofficial websites or third-party vendors offering IDPs online. These are often scams and are not valid in Japan. Monkey Kart will only accept IDPs issued by AAA or AATA.
Here’s exactly how to get your international driving permit USA for Japan before your Monkey Kart adventure:
You’ll need:
A completed IDP application form (download from AAA or AATA)
A copy of the front and back of your valid U.S. driver’s license
Two passport-size photos (2x2 inches)
$20 application fee (cash, check, or credit card)
Optional: Prepaid return envelope if mailing your application
You can apply in person or by mail:
Visit a local AAA branch
Bring all required documents
Get your IDP issued immediately on the spot
Mail your completed application and documents to AAA or AATA
Include a check or money order for $20
Include a return envelope with prepaid postage
If applying by mail, expect to receive your IDP within:
10–15 business days processing time
3–7 days for standard USPS return shipping
✈️ Apply at least 3–4 weeks before your flight to ensure timely delivery.
An IDP is a compact, passport-like document that translates your U.S. driver's license into ten languages, including Japanese.
You must carry it together with your physical U.S. driver’s license during your Monkey Kart go-kart ride. Both are required by law.
Unfortunately, you will not be allowed to participate in any public road tours, including those offered by Monkey Kart, if you do not present a valid IDP and U.S. license.
???? Driving without a valid license or IDP in Japan can result in:
Fines
Tour disqualification
Police action or detention
Insurance invalidation
We hate turning people away, but we must follow Japanese traffic laws to ensure everyone's safety.
To participate in a Monkey Kart Tokyo Go-Kart Tour, you must bring:
✅ A valid IDP (1949 Convention format)
✅ Your passport for identity verification
✅ Proper clothing (no long skirts, flip-flops, or heels)
We’ll take care of the rest—from helmets and costumes to vehicle instruction and route guidance. Just bring your license and a sense of adventure!
Driving a go-kart through Tokyo’s bustling streets is like nothing else in the world. With Monkey Kart, you’ll:
Zoom past Tokyo Tower, Shibuya Crossing, and Akihabara
Wear fun costumes (think superheroes or anime characters!)
Snap amazing photos with Tokyo’s iconic skyline as your backdrop
Be guided by trained staff who keep you safe and entertained
Our tours are safe, legal, and unforgettable—and the IDP makes it all possible.
Q: Can I get an IDP while in Japan?
No. It must be issued before arriving in Japan.
Q: Is the 1968 IDP valid in Japan?
No. Japan recognizes only the 1949 Geneva Convention version. Ensure you obtain the correct permit from either AAA or AATA.
Q: Is my U.S. motorcycle license valid for go-karts?
No. You need a standard passenger vehicle license. Motorcycle-only licenses are not accepted.
Q: Can I show a digital copy of my license or IDP?
No. You must bring the physical documents—no digital versions allowed.
We recommend applying for your IDP:
3–4 weeks before your trip, if by mail
Up to 6 months in advance of your planned Monkey Kart tour
The International Driving Permit (IDP) is valid for one year from its issue date. Therefore, avoid applying too far in advance of your trip.
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