Scooter (Moped motorcycle) Licenses and Riding

When you ride or drive vehicles in Japan, you need the right type of license for each vehicle type.

There are strict penalties for drivers without a license or who disobey traffic rules. Riding on the expressways and riding double on a scooter are prohibited. Everyone must wear a helmet while riding a scooter. You will have to use snow tires when driving on snowy or frozen roads. If you neglect this you might have to pay penalty fees. Other major traffic rules can be obtained at a police station or driving license center.

Auto Insurance and Tax for Scooters

Riders must buy "Compulsory Automobile Liability Insurance". However, in the case of accidents causing death, injury or property damage, you may be ordered to pay tens to hundreds of million yen. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you buy private insurance coverage as well. To purchase insurance, please ask the vehicle shop directly. Scooter owners are obligated to pay Vehicle Acquisition Tax to the city.

Necessary Procedures for Disposal, Ownership Transfer, or Moving House with a Scooter

If you are going to leave Japan, you should inquire with the scooter dealer in advance. They can handle the right procedures for disposing of vehicles. If you leave your scooter without the proper disposal procedures, you may be punished under the law. If you want to transfer ownership to someone, each owner needs to complete procedures at the local city hall (disposal procedure and change of owner’s name.) If you give your scooter to someone without the right procedures, you may be punished under the law.

If you move to another prefecture or city, you need to complete the disposal procedure at your current city hall for moving out. Then, after moving in to your new city, you will need to complete automobile registration at your new city hall.