Legal Ages in Japan

The age you become an adult in Japan, and the legal ages for voting, driving, drinking alcohol and marriage, with the exceptions that matter.

Age of majority 18 Voting age 18 Driving age 18 Drinking age 20 Marriage age 18

Age of majority in Japan

You have been an adult at 18 since April 2022 (it was 20).

Voting age in Japan

You can vote at 18.

Driving age in Japan

You need to be 18 for a car licence. Motorcycles are allowed from 16.

Drinking age in Japan

You must be 20 to drink alcohol or smoke, even though adulthood starts at 18.

Marriage age in Japan

The minimum age is 18 for both men and women since April 2022.

Checked 22 October 2026 against national laws and government sites. Laws change and this is a summary, not legal advice; check with the authority that applies to you.

Age calculator

Your exact age today, and the date you turn 16, 18 or 21.

Emergency numbers in Japan

Police, ambulance and fire numbers, plus helplines.

Japanese public holidays 2026

Every holiday with its date and long weekends.