Starting March 24, 2025, driver’s licenses in Japan can be combined with My Number Cards under the “My Number License” system. It’s been three and a half months since this started nationwide. Are you already using it? Let’s explore the ranking of regions with the most My Number License holders and explain what the system is all about.

Where Are People Using “My Number License” the Most? Top 10 Ranking

According to data from June, the top ten regions where people hold My Number Licenses are as follows:

1. Kanagawa: 90,499 holders
2. Tokyo: 62,478 holders
3. Chiba: 58,930 holders
4. Saitama: 56,163 holders
5. Hokkaido: 49,038 holders
6. Aichi: 47,051 holders
7. Osaka: 40,303 holders
8. Shizuoka: 34,104 holders
9. Fukuoka: 34,039 holders
10. Hiroshima: 23,300 holders

The total number of My Number License holders as of late June is 868,188. Of these, 280,527 only have the My Number License, while 587,661 people hold both a driver’s license and a My Number Card.

What is the “My Number License”? Basic Explanation

The “My Number License” combines driver’s license information with the My Number Card, thanks to a law amendment three years ago. Here are four main benefits of this system:

1. Address changes are simplified by notifying only the municipality.
2. Online updates for driver’s licenses can be conducted virtually, reducing lecture requirements.
3. Faster renewals and longer application periods are available outside one’s residential area.
4. Reduced renewal fees compared to traditional driver’s licenses.

How Can You Choose to Hold Your License?

With the integration, you now have three options for holding your driver’s license:

1. Only a My Number License.
2. Both a My Number License and the traditional driver’s license.
3. Only the traditional driver’s license.

When driving, one of these licenses must be carried.

The My Number License’s IC chip stores driving license details, which can be checked using smartphone apps even though the card looks like a regular My Number Card. However, if your My Number Card is about to expire, note that its update won’t automatically transfer driving license info yet, so you might need two cards. Automatic updates are expected starting Fall 2025. Online courses will be available for those with birthdays after March 24, 2025, but eyesight tests will still require visits to a license center.

FAQ

Where can I apply for a My Number License?

Applications can be made at local driving license centers and certain police stations. Check your local government’s website for details.

When can I apply?

Applications can be made anytime, even outside renewal periods.

Will violation info be recorded on My Number Card?

No, only necessary driving license information is recorded, similar to traditional licenses.

Summary

The “My Number License” system, launched in March 2025, simplifies processes and introduces online courses for drivers. You have three choices for holding your license: solely My Number, both cards, or just the traditional license. Consider the expiration time of your My Number Card when deciding. The system is expected to be further improved, so choose what suits you best.