Transport
Procedures for Owning a Car
July 16, 2026
This article introduces basic information about car registration and insurance in Japan. Learn what procedures are required when you own a car, including registration, proving a parking space, and the types of insurance you need.
**Car Registration**
- If you own a car, you need to complete the registration process.
- Registration is done at a designated office.
**Garage Certificate**
- You will need a document proving where you will store your car.
**Car Insurance**
- It is required by law to enroll in compulsory automobile liability insurance (shakken).
- Optional (voluntary) insurance is also available, which gives you extra peace of mind.
---
Source: Immigration Services Agency of Japan "Life and Work Guidebook" 第8版
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/support/portal/guidebook_all.html
This article was reorganized by ＳＩＡデジタルテクノロジー株式会社 based on the above source.
※This language version is a machine translation from the Japanese version (ＳＩＡデジタルテクノロジー株式会社).
This information is reference material based on official announcements. Always verify accurate information on official websites or with relevant authorities.