Lesson · For the learner's permit test (仮免)
Licenses and driving cautions
Driving cautions (alcohol, tiredness, phones) and how the license system works, including what you may do with a learner's permit (仮免許) and the beginner mark (初心者マーク).
Rules as of Oct 22, 2026
What the test asks about
- Learner's permit: qualified supervisor (e.g. 3+ years) beside you. (教則 第4章 第2節 1(3))
- Beginner mark: first year, front and back. (教則 第4章 第1節 1(1)オ)
- Regular license: car, small special vehicle, moped. (教則 第4章 第2節 2)
- Any alcohol in your body: don't drive. (教則 第4章 第1節 4)
- Long drives: rest at least every 2 hours. (教則 第4章 第1節 2)
- Hand-held phone: banned while moving, not while stopped. (教則 第5章 第1節 2(4))
- Always carry your license when driving. (教則 第4章 第2節 (前文))
- Learner's plate: front and back. (教則 第4章 第2節 1(3); 付表5(7))
- Learner's permit: valid 6 months. (教則 第4章 第2節 1(3))
- Motorcycles need a motorcycle license. (教則 第4章 第2節 2)
- Rope-towing a broken-down car: no towing license needed. (教則 第4章 第2節 3)
- Last night's drink can still count next morning. (教則 第4章 第1節 4)
Check yourself
10 questions from this topic, with the answer and the rule after each one.
Sources
Ready for a full test? Try the learner's permit mock exam.