This guide provides practical answers to these queries, ensuring a smooth and informed car rental experience in Japan. At the end, you'll find a summary that highlights key information for quick reference.
Yes, Brazilian travelers can drive rental cars in Japan when they present a valid passport, an appropriate driving licence combination (typically a home-country licence plus a 1949‑Convention IDP), and meet age and payment conditions set by the rental company.
Form of ID:
Foreign renters must present a valid passport at pick-up.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + IDP (issued under the 1949 Convention, A6-sized booklet, and the rented vehicle’s seats must match the authorized category).
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards (vary by supplier) generally include Visa, MasterCard, JCB, AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, and sometimes UnionPay. Debit cards and cash may be accepted by some suppliers for payment or deposit, but a valid credit card in the main driver’s name is still commonly required for pre-authorization.
Age requirements:
Depending on the rental plan, the permitted driving age ranges approximately from 18–75 years. Some plans allow driving from 18 or 20 up to 60–75; others set 21–75 with a young driver surcharge. Where applicable, drivers aged 21–25 may be charged a young driver fee of about US$ 20.00 per day. Always check the specific vehicle offer for the exact minimum/maximum age and any young driver surcharge.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Explore a range of car rental companies in Japan, offering reliable services tailored to travelers from Brazil.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands
Hertz
Locations:
11Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Hertz
Locations:
514Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Hertz
Locations:
1153Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Nissan
Locations:
3542Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and eco-friendly options
Europcar
Locations:
362Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and business rentals
Avis
Locations:
138Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking reliable service with various vehicle options
Hertz
Locations:
378Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Alamo
Locations:
361Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
IX Rental
Locations:
22Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and short-term rentals
Hello Rent a Car
Locations:
3Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local excursionsChoosing the right rental car can make your trip in Japan more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
Perfect for city driving and short trips in Tokyo or Osaka
Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
Good balance of space and fuel efficiency for urban areas
Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
Comfortable for longer distances and day trips to Mount Fuji or Kyoto
Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
Ideal for families and group travel across regions
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
Automatic transmission
Easier for city driving and traffic, common in Japan
Manual transmission
Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
Most Brazilian drivers opt for automatic for ease in urban traffic
Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
Basic liability
Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
Theft protection
Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
Personal insurance
Check if your Brazilian insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Understand booking flexibility and fees
Free cancellation
Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
Change fees
Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
Travel insurance
Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
Unlimited mileage
Best for long road trips and cross-country travel through Japan
Limited mileage
Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
Consider your planned route distance from Tokyo to Hokkaido or Kyushu
Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Understand fuel requirements and costs
Full-to-Full
Return with same fuel level, most economical option
Full-to-Empty
Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
Same-to-Same
Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
Pre-purchase fuel options
Compare costs with local gas station prices
Quick Decision Guide
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Tokyo, Osaka, YokohamaMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Hokkaido, KyushuConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Okinawa, Hakone, Nagoya
Compare with Confidence on QEEQ
Japan offers a blend of traditional culture and modern attractions, with iconic routes like the Golden Route and popular cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Travelers can also explore beautiful countryside areas for a more serene experience.
To drive in Japan, travelers will need to comply with local insurance regulations. Basic insurance is mandatory, but additional coverage is recommended for a worry-free experience. Insurance options vary, so it's essential to understand your choices.
Covers damage to the rental car due to a collision or accident.
Provides coverage against theft of the rental vehicle.
Covers damage or injury caused to other people or property.
Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.
Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Japan. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.
Fully Covered
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Travelers from Brazil heading to Japan can benefit from strategic planning to save money on car rentals. Follow these tips to ensure affordability and convenience.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Japan.
Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.
Brazilian and Japanese traffic rules show notable differences in driving sides, signaling conventions, and alcohol tolerance levels, while sharing similarities in safety regulations.
Driving Side
Drive on the left side of the road
Drive on the right side of the road
Traffic Light Behavior
Green arrow allows turning even at red light
No turns allowed on red lights
Alcohol Tolerance
0.03% BAC limit (very strict)
0.06% BAC limit (more lenient)
Pedestrian Priority
Strict pedestrian priority at crossings
Pedestrians have priority, but enforcement varies
Seatbelt Usage
Mandatory for all occupants
Mandatory for all occupants
Mobile Phone Use
Only permitted with hands-free devices
Only permitted with hands-free devices
Common questions for travelers from Brazil renting a car in Japan
