Getting your JAF (Japan Automobile Federation) driver’s license translation is a crucial step for many foreigners planning to drive in Japan. While we, as a standard, typically provide 7-Eleven print codes due to their widespread availability, did you know you can also easily print your translation at Lawson and Ministop convenience stores? With a combined total of 16,419 stores across Japan, these omnipresent convenience stores offer a convenient alternative, especially if you find yourself in an area without a 7-Eleven, or at an airport where 7-Eleven printers may not be readily accessible.
This is how a Lawson and Ministop convenience store looks like:
For more detailed information on printing options at airports, please refer to our article here: Airport Printing Options.
This guide is specifically for those who opted for the self-printout option. You will need the 10-digit alphanumeric code provided by JAF and the necessary printing fee.
What You’ll Need
Your 10-digit alphanumeric code: This code is provided by JAF after your application for the driver’s license translation.
The printing fee: The cost for printing your JAF translation is ¥20 per page for black and white. As the JAF translation is typically 2 pages, the total cost will be ¥40. It’s always a good idea to have coins handy but if you only have bills you can ask the store staff to exchange the money for you.
How to Print at Lawson and Ministop
Both Lawson and Ministop utilize similar multi-copy machines for their network printing services. Follow these simple steps:
Locate the Multi-Copy Machine: Upon entering a Lawson or Ministop store, look for the multi-copy machine. These are usually near the front of the store or in a designated area.
Select “Network Print”: On the multi-copy machine’s touch screen, you will see various options. Select the “Network Print” option.
Enter Your Code: The next screen will prompt you to enter a 10-digit alphanumeric code. Carefully input the code you received from the JAF Driver’s License Translation Application Site. After entering, press “Next”.
Confirm Print Settings: A preview of your translation will appear on the screen. Unless you have specific reasons to change them, you typically won’t need to adjust any settings. Press “Next” to proceed.
Insert Payment: The machine will display the total fee for your printout (which will be ¥40 for a standard 2-page translation). Insert the exact amount in coins into the designated slot on the multi-copy machine.
Important Note: The JAF translation typically consists of 2 pages. Please ensure you have ¥40 ready.
Print and Collect: Once the payment is confirmed, the machine will begin printing your JAF translation. Please wait until the process is complete.
Remove Your Documents: After printing, carefully remove your printed translation from the output tray. It’s crucial to check that you have all pages and that you don’t leave any documents behind. Press “End” on the screen to finalize the process.
