FOREIGN LICENSE CONVERSION · 外免切替
The Aptitude Test
Eye, Color & Hearing
Before the knowledge test, there’s a quick aptitude check (tekisei kensa) — vision, color, and hearing. It’s easy to pass, but easy to forget your glasses. Here’s what’s tested.

👁️ WHAT'S CHECKED
- VisionAt least 0.7 with both eyes combined AND at least 0.3 in each eye. If one eye is below 0.3 or blind, the other must reach 0.7 with a horizontal field of 150° or more.
- Color recognitionYou must distinguish red, yellow, and green — the traffic-signal colors.
- HearingHear a 90 dB warning horn from 10 m away (a hearing aid is allowed).
- Glasses / contacts OKCorrective lenses are permitted for the vision test — just bring them on the day.
If you fail the aptitude check, you can’t take the knowledge test that day. Reference: Road Traffic Act Article 88; Enforcement Regulations Article 23.
FAQ
What is the aptitude test for license conversion?
Before the knowledge test, every applicant takes a brief on-site aptitude check (適性検査) of vision, color recognition, and hearing. It's quick, but you must pass it to proceed that day. (Road Traffic Act Article 88; Enforcement Regulations Article 23.)
What eyesight do I need for the conversion test?
For a standard Class-1 ordinary license: at least 0.7 with both eyes combined and at least 0.3 in each eye. If one eye is below 0.3, the other must reach 0.7 with a 150°+ horizontal field. Glasses and contact lenses are allowed — bring them.
What happens if I fail the aptitude test?
If you fail the vision, color, or hearing check, you cannot take the knowledge test that day. You would need to come back — so bring your glasses or contacts and don't skip it.
Pass the aptitude check and the 50-question knowledge test is next. Practice it free, in English, with AI-explained answers.
Last updated 2026-05-30. Informational only — always confirm current requirements with your prefecture’s driver’s license center, as they can differ locally.