Hello,

I'm planning a week-long trip to Okinawa this March. It appears that the best way to get around the main island (and see all the remote, arguably more interesting places) is to drive a rented car.

I've been made aware of some peculiarities regarding the recognition of the International Driving Permit within Japan. I found a per-country IDP validity list on the Tokyo Police Dept website (for reference, here it is in Japanese, and in English). My country is on the list. (Hurray!)

However, it appears Japan only recognizes IDPs issued according to the 1949 (Geneva) convention, whereas my IDP was issued according to the later 1968 (Vienna) convention, and clearly states so on its front page. Does that preclude me from renting and/or driving a car in Okinawa?

Has anyone been in a similar situation before? It seems that IDPs issued in nearly all of the European countries would mention the 1968 as that is the date of the most recent agreement they are party to (list of signatories to the 1968 convention).

Any suggestions will be appreciated.