Originally Posted by SirDomino
I was at the base yesterday getting a 'visitor' pass while I am visiting here in Okinawa and was told that it was 'illegal' for me to drive a Y-plate vehicle, and that my IDP was only good for Japanese plated vehicles, not those that are registered by american civil/military members stationed in Japan.
Was basically told if I wanted to drive in Japan that I needed to either rent or buy a vehicle while I'm here. Ridiculous considering my wife's family owns 3 vehicles here.
Would appreciate some insight into this. Thanks!
Y plates are for those with SOFA status. Military, dependents, civilan workers. Anyone who has SOFA (status of forces agreement) has the rights under that agreement between Japan and the US.
Without that you are "legeally" unable to drive a Y plate car with a Intl liscense. You can rent a car. Not sure how long you will be there but they always have deals on rentals during the Summer.