Vehicle inspection in Japan (2026)
Last reviewed: 7 November 2026
In short: A private passenger car needs a vehicle inspection certificate. The first certificate is valid for 3 years, later ones for 2 years. Driving without one is punishable by up to 6 months in prison or a fine of up to JPY 300,000.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| First inspection of a new carVehicle inspection | For a private passenger car, the first vehicle inspection certificate is valid for 3 years (excluding categories set by ministerial ordinance). [1] |
| Inspection intervalVehicle inspection | After the first period, the inspection certificate of a private passenger car is valid for 2 years, and the car must pass a continuing inspection before it expires. The Minister may shorten the validity. [1] |
| Who carries out the testVehicle inspection | The inspection is carried out by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. [1] |
| Penalty for an overdue testVehicle inspection | Using a car without an inspection and a valid inspection certificate is punishable by imprisonment of up to 6 months or a fine of up to JPY 300,000. [1] |
| Foreign cars visitingVehicle inspection | ⚠ Not yet verified |
Notes
- Not confirmed in the law text read. Rules on foreign-registered cars are set elsewhere.
Sources
- Digital Agency (e-Gov Law Search): 道路運送車両法 (昭和二十六年法律第百八十五号), revision 1 April 2026 (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.