The profession of a driver in Japan boasts a relatively high salary level compared to many other occupations. Although taxi drivers, bus drivers, and truck drivers have different salary structures and working conditions depending on the job type, each has its own appeal. In this explanation, we will introduce the actual salary conditions, the attractions of the work, and how foreigners can work as drivers in Japan, including the necessary visa qualifications and methods for obtaining licenses.

Driver Salary Conditions

The salary of a driver varies greatly depending on the job type, location, licenses held, and years of experience. Generally speaking, taxi drivers typically operate on a commission-based system that fluctuates based on working hours and sales, with an average monthly income of 300,000 to 400,000 yen. Often, a commission-based salary contract is signed, and many drivers who work in city centers or take on specific ways of working can earn over 600,000 yen, making it a highly popular profession.

The appeal of being a bus driver is stability. The steady demand for public transportation ensures stable income. The average monthly income ranges from 250,000 to 350,000 yen, which may be slightly higher at major private railway companies or public transit systems.

The salary of a truck driver changes significantly depending on the type of cargo transported, distance, and working conditions, with an average monthly income reportedly ranging from 300,000 to 500,000 yen. Drivers transporting especially long distances or specific types of cargo can earn higher incomes.

Attractions of the Driver Profession

The appeal of the driver profession isn't limited to the relatively high salary level based on stable demand. For those seeking a flexible work style, the ability to set working hours and holidays flexibly is also a significant attraction. Additionally, for those who enjoy driving, the opportunity to work while experiencing different landscapes daily is another appealing aspect. Moreover, since it is a job that involves frequent interaction with people, it provides an excellent opportunity to develop communication skills. To work as a driver in Japan, foreigners need to obtain the appropriate visa and a Japanese driver's license.

There are various types of visas that allow you to work as a driver, but the "Automobile Transportation Industry," which was newly added to the Specified Skilled Worker visa in the spring of 2024, is particularly noteworthy. International students, technical intern trainees, and foreigners residing in Japan under other Specified Skilled Worker visas can transition to this new visa if they meet certain requirements. Even if you have a driver's license from your home country, you will need to convert it to a Japanese license. This process requires translation and certification of your license, an aptitude test, as well as written and driving tests to confirm your knowledge of traffic laws and driving skills.

Conclusion

The profession of a driver offers many attractions beyond just the salary, including the freedom in work style and the daily encounters with new people. For those of you who are foreigners, the path to working as a driver in Japan is now open, provided that the proper procedures are followed. Japan is actively creating an environment to support this, making it a significant opportunity for you. Why not view this as a great chance to advance your career? Through this work, you can deepen your understanding of Japanese culture and people, and pave the way for a bright future in your career.