Authentication chain for Certified Driving License Copy bound for Japan
Japan is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention — therefore Certified Driving License Copy must pass through: Notary Public → MFA Thailand → Apostille (for Japan).
Once the MFA issues an Apostille, Japan accepts it directly — no further embassy step required, saving 1-2 weeks and embassy fees.
Our team refreshes Japan requirements quarterly to avoid bounce-back on format changes.
About Certified Driving License Copy
Notarised copy of Thai or International Driving Permit for car rental, work, or license exchange abroad.
Common reasons clients prepare Certified Driving License Copy for Japan: เช่ารถระยะยาวในสหรัฐ/ยุโรป/ออสเตรเลีย · แลกใบขับขี่ต่างประเทศ (US State DMV, UK DVLA) · สมัครงานขนส่ง/โลจิสติกส์ต่างประเทศ.
Source documents to bring: ใบขับขี่ตัวจริง (ไทย/สากล), พาสปอร์ต, สำเนาใบขับขี่ 2 ชุด.
Total cost and timeline
Notary Public: quoted on request — turnaround 1 ชั่วโมง.
MFA Consular Affairs (Chaengwattana): quoted on request per stamp (standard) or quoted on request (express) — 2-3 business days (1-day express available).
Apostille included with the MFA step — no embassy fees.
Total ~5-7 business days · Express ~2-3 days.
Document checklist
- Original Certified Driving License Copy (or copy to be certified)
- Signer's Thai ID / passport
- State Apostille as the destination
- Power of attorney (if our runner files on your behalf)
- Certified translation (if the destination requires local language)
FAQ
Will my Certified Driving License Copy be accepted in Japan?
Yes — after the Apostille, Japan accepts it directly with no extra embassy step.
Total turnaround?
5-7 business days · express in 2-3 days.
Total cost?
Notary quoted on request + MFA quoted on request per stamp (standard) or quoted on request (express) (includes Apostille).
Does an Apostille expire?
The Apostille itself does not expire, but many receiving authorities want documents dated within 3-6 months — verify with the recipient.