Japan has officially issued its first Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa for a bus driver, marking a major step in opening the country’s transportation industry to foreign workers. Facing a severe driver shortage due to an aging workforce and a declining number of domestic applicants, the Japanese government proposed adding the automobile transportation industry to the SSW program in early 2024. After finalizing the framework, they began accepting applications and conducting selection tests in December 2024, allowing foreign workers to officially apply for jobs as bus and truck drivers. Just two months later, in February 2025, the first SSW visa for a professional driver was granted to an Indonesian driver, marking a turning point for the industry.
If you are interested in pursuing a career as a bus or truck driver in Japan, this guide will walk you through the necessary qualifications, application process, and key steps to securing a job and visa under the Specified Skilled Worker program.
SSW Automobile Transportation Business Industry
The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa is a program designed to bring foreign workers into industries facing serious labor shortages in Japan. First introduced in April 2019, the SSW program initially covered 14 industries, including nursing care, construction, agriculture, and food service. Over time, additional industries were added based on labor demands. In March 2024, Japan included the automobile transportation industry in the SSW program to address the growing shortage of bus and truck drivers. This change allows qualified foreign nationals to work in passenger and freight transportation, including roles as bus drivers, truck drivers, and delivery drivers.
Once approved, foreign workers can stay and work in Japan for up to five years under the SSW Type 1 visa. However, unlike some other SSW industries, this category does not offer a direct pathway to permanent residency. Additionally, SSW drivers must follow strict road safety regulations and work under the same conditions as Japanese drivers, including scheduled breaks and working hours set by transportation laws. The introduction of the SSW automobile transportation industry is expected to ease labor shortages, maintain efficient public transport and logistics, and support Japan’s increasing demand for delivery services.
Requirements for the SSW Automobile Transportation Industry
The automobile transportation industry under the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa has similar basic requirements to other industries in the program. Candidates must:
Be at least 18 years old, as this is the minimum age required to obtain a professional driver’s license in Japan
Have a valid driver’s license (either a Japanese license or a converted foreign license)
Pass the Japanese language test (JLPT N4 or JFT-Basic A2 level)
Pass the SSW industry-specific skill test for drivers
Obtain a job offer from a registered company in Japan
Recruitment and Training Process for SSW Drivers in Japan
Before starting work as a bus, taxi, or truck driver, candidates must complete a structured process that includes selection, training, and certification. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved:
1. Selection Process
Before coming to Japan, foreign drivers must pass two key tests. The first is the SSW Skill Test, which assesses their knowledge of vehicle operation, road safety, and Japanese transportation laws. The second is a Japanese language test, where candidates must demonstrate at least basic communication skills. This can be done by passing either the JLPT N4 exam or the JFT-Basic (A2 level) test.
The SSW tests are conducted in Japan and select overseas locations. Those interested in applying should check the Organization for Technical Intern Training (OTIT) website for schedules and details on upcoming test sessions. After passing the required tests, candidates must secure a job offer from a Japanese company registered under the SSW program. Companies such as Yamato Transport, Sagawa Express, and Nikko Bus actively hire foreign drivers. Once an employment contract is signed, candidates can apply for an SSW visa and enter Japan for further training.
2. Training and Licensing
After arriving in Japan, foreign drivers must complete training to meet Japanese transportation standards. The process differs depending on the type of vehicle they will be driving.
Bus and taxi drivers
Training for bus and taxi drivers is longer because they are responsible for transporting passengers. Candidates enter a special program that lasts up to 12 months, with the first six months focused on licensing.
During this period, they must complete the Kirikae process, which converts their foreign driver’s license to a Japanese license. In addition, they need to obtain a Second-Class (Nishu) License, which is required for commercial passenger transport.
Once they have the proper licenses, candidates move on to theory training, covering topics such as:
- Japanese traffic laws
- Customer service skills
- Navigation and route planning
- Passenger safety and emergency response
After completing the theory portion, they start practical training, which includes driving practice at bus or taxi depots and on public roads under supervision. They also take Japanese language training to improve their ability to interact with passengers and colleagues.
Truck drivers
The training process for truck drivers is shorter, typically lasting up to six months. Candidates in this category only need to complete the Kirikae process and upgrade their license according to the type of truck they will be driving. Unlike bus and taxi drivers, they do not need a Second-Class (Nishu) License, since their job does not involve carrying passengers.
Once they obtain a Japanese truck driver’s license, they can start working immediately. Like bus and taxi drivers, truck drivers also receive Japanese language training to help them communicate with customers, dispatchers, and other road users.
3. Becoming a Professional Driver in Japan
After completing all the necessary training and licensing steps, candidates are officially qualified to work as professional drivers in Japan. Whether they choose to drive a bus, taxi, or truck, they will play a key role in supporting the country’s transportation industry under the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa.
Start Working as a Driver in Japan
SSW drivers can begin working about six to twelve months after arriving in Japan, depending on the training and licensing process. However, there are a few important points to keep in mind.
The SSW visa is valid for up to five years, but it does not allow workers to bring family members.
Learning basic Japanese, ideally at the N3 level, will make daily work and communication easier.
After completing the five-year period, drivers may have the opportunity to switch to another visa type, such as a work visa or permanent residency, depending on their qualifications and experience.
Benefits of Becoming a Driver in Japan Under the SSW Program
Since the automobile transportation industry was only recently added to the program, there is a high demand for foreign drivers, creating more job opportunities with competitive salaries. Additionally, gaining work experience in Japan can open pathways to long-term career growth, including the possibility of switching to a work visa or applying for permanent residency in the future. If you want to learn more about working in Japan, how open companies are to foreigners, and what the work-life balance is like, check out Tokhimo Reviews.
