The rollout of Japan's new "My Number Driver's License," which integrates individuals' My Number card with their driving license, began on March 24, 2025, marking a significant shift in the management of personal identification for drivers. However, the first day of issuance was not without its complications, as reports emerged of application failures and other technical difficulties, leaving many prospective users uncertain about the new system.
Interestingly, a survey conducted by "Otokuni My Car Teigaku Carmo-kun" from February 21 to February 28 with 2,206 adults revealed that more than 60% of current driver's license holders expressed interest in acquiring the new My Number driver's license. This enthusiasm underlines the growing inclination towards modernizing personal identification methods in Japan.
I-san, a resident of Kanagawa Prefecture in her 40s, was among the first to experience the new system on the inaugural day. Having opted to hold both the new My Number driver’s license and her traditional license, she shared her experience, which was generally positive despite a few hiccups. According to her, if the process goes smoothly, it reportedly only takes about 10 to 15 minutes for users to complete their application.
On the other hand, the process itself began promptly at the police station where I-san initiated her application. After arriving at 8:00 AM, she was informed that advance reservations were not permitted. Number tickets were issued starting at 8:00 AM, with actual processing beginning at 9:00 AM. Aldea noted, "I felt relieved when I learned I would receive my My Number driver’s license on the same day, having arrived early enough to be the first in line." However, as she proceeded with her paperwork, she noticed the queue grew rapidly behind her, emphasizing the need for others to approach the process with a time buffer in mind.
The My Number driver's license allows users more flexibility than ever before. Apart from allowing individuals to choose to retain their traditional driver’s license, license holders can also opt for just the My Number driver's license, or maintain both. However, it is crucial to note that if the My Number card is renewed after obtaining the new license, a fresh procedure must be completed to synchronize the information again.
During her appointment, I-san encountered a removal of confusion surrounding the fees associated with the application. Initially, she was informed that the application fee would be 1,550 yen, but during payment, it was corrected to a flat rate of 1,500 yen. This minor hiccup highlighted the challenges many faced amid the initial chaos. I-san explained how, at her police station, users were provided two payment options: cash or cashless payment. She opted for the latter but noted that her payment method was complicated by an unclear transaction process, leading to an unnecessary delay.
As if that wasn’t enough, technical issues surfaced related to the application aimed at confirming driver's information. Reports on social media hinted at various defects, sparking additional concerns among users as they sought to access their information seamlessly. I-san lamented, "There was a situation where my electronic signature would not register, and I was told I would need to return to the driver's license center. That was disheartening, especially after having opened up my schedule for this."
Other license holders shared their mixed experiences in a casual survey conducted at the Fukuoka automobile driving license examination office, where many expressed skepticism about making the switch entirely to a My Number driver's license. Users indicated a desire to hold both forms of identification temporarily, as one new holder articulated: "Having both allows for a kind of safety net while I adjust to this new process."
Despite the initial mix-ups, the My Number driver's license offers several flexibility advantages, streamlining future reporting needs like address changes, which no longer require visits to the police station. For many, the ability to undertake online renewal programs represents an attractive new feature.
Anticipation surrounding the new system continues as feedback from the public will be essential in refining the process. Officials have promised to address ongoing technical challenges, with system improvements scheduled for completion by autumn 2025. This promises a more user-friendly experience ahead.
For those looking to transition to the My Number driver's license, patience will be key. As I-san noted, following her fulfilling yet slightly troubled experience, it's advisable for users to ensure their documentation is thoroughly prepared before heading out. Then there’s the prospect of future updates—timely and conducive to enhancing user experiences throughout the system's evolution.
The My Number driver's license aims to simplify drivers’ interactions with governmental services by centralizing identification methods. In time, as these new systems are polished, it is hoped that they can eliminate unnecessary complications that surfaced on the initial rollout day. For now, the emphasis remains firmly on awareness—both of the system and user preparedness as Japan enters a new chapter in the age of integrated identification.
