On September 12, 2024, the National Police Agency finalized a draft amendment to the Road Traffic Act Enforcement Regulations and other regulations aimed at integrating driver’s licenses and My Number cards. On March 24, 2025, the “My Number License” is scheduled to go into operation, integrating two familiar cards in our daily lives: the My Number Card and the driver’s license. This can be seen as a major step toward improving convenience and streamlining administrative procedures, along with the advancement of the digital society.
What changes with a minor driver’s license?
Health insurance card, driver’s license, My Number card
First, having a My Number license means you no longer need to carry a separate driver’s license and My Number card, which will free up space in your wallet. It’s also expected to simplify administrative procedures, such as allowing you to complete driver’s license renewal procedures online. Furthermore, private companies may also start offering services that utilize My Number licenses, making our lives even more convenient.
Reviewing the costs of obtaining a driver’s license
The fee for obtaining a new driver’s license has changed. The fee, which was previously 2,050 yen, will be reduced to 1,550 yen if you choose a “My Number License” that is integrated with your My Number Card. If you choose a driver’s license, the fee will increase to 2,350 yen, and if you have both, you will need 2,450 yen.
The fee for license renewal has also been revised. The renewal fee, which was previously 2,500 yen, will be reduced to 2,100 yen if you choose a “My Number License,” and will increase to 2,850 yen if you choose a conventional license. If you have both, you will be required to pay a fee of 2,950 yen.
| New acquisition | When updating | |
|---|---|---|
| Minority driver’s license | 1,550 yen | 2100 yen |
| Driver’s license | 2,350 yen | 2,850 yen |
| My Number Card Driver’s License |
2,450 yen | 2,950 yen |
Reference NHK
What are the benefits of a minor driver’s license?
1. Procedures can be completed anywhere in the country
By digitizing driver’s licenses and integrating them with My Number cards, procedures such as license renewals and address changes will be possible anywhere in the country. This will be a major benefit for people who frequently move or get transferred for work. Furthermore, the number of locations where My Number cards can be issued is also planned to increase, so it is expected that even those who are busy on weekdays will be able to easily obtain one.
2. It’s less likely that you won’t carry your driver’s license
With a My Number card, you no longer have to worry about forgetting to carry your driver’s license, reducing the risk of accidentally violating a traffic law. Furthermore, efforts are being made to make police checks smoother.
3. It’s easy to change the address on your driver’s license
Another appealing feature of digital licenses is that various procedures can be completed in one place. For example, changing your address when moving previously required procedures at both your local government and the driver’s license center, but with digitalization, this can now be done in one go. Even for those who find it difficult to find time on weekdays, being able to complete the procedures only at your city hall is a major benefit.
Preparing for integration
The government is currently developing systems and preparing legislation to introduce the My Number license. Promoting the widespread use of My Number cards is also an important issue, and it is likely that various campaigns and special offers will be offered.
Future outlook
My Number drivers’ licenses have the potential to become the foundation for personal authentication in the digital society. In the future, My Number drivers’ licenses will be used in various administrative procedures and private services, making our lives even more convenient and safer.
A word from the editorial department
The My Number Driver’s License is an important initiative that has the potential to significantly change our lives. With the system set to go into effect in March 2025, attention is focused on the actions of the government and private companies.
Reference: Cabinet Secretariat, Promotion and Use of My Number Cards
Reference: National Police Agency
