Could I own a motorcycle in Tokyo under military SOFA status?

Question

This is a question for people who understand the military SOFA. My family lives on a military base on Okinawa Japan, but I'm leaving for college in Tokyo this September. I'm not applying for a Student Visa because I can live in Japan under the SOFA (Status of Armed Forces Agreement) without one.

Anyway, when I get to Tokyo, I want to have a vehicle of my own since I have friends who live in areas of Japan that aren't easily accessible by public transportation. Any car I want would be too expensive, and I probably wouldn't have anywhere to park it. Is there any way I could own a motorcycle?

Answer 1

Wraith, I couldn't find any info on Kadena in particular.  I do know that most overseas bases allow for 2 automobiles per household and 1 motorcycle.  To get your miitary motorcycle license you generally have to already have one from the states.  Then you'll go through the base motorcycle course, and then retraining every year.

Your best bet is going to be to call the Joint Service Vehicle Register Office on Camp Foster.  They will be able to give you the official ruling.

Good luck and enjoy your studies

Edit:  It looks like you just answered your own question.  As a military dependant, any vehicle you drive must be accompanied with a DL issued through SOFA regulations.  Looks like you'll be needing a bicycle!

Answer 2

Sure you can buy one, but riding it is another matter.

Answer 3

If you have a Japanese driving license, you can own a motorcycle! The terms of your being here do not affect whether you can own a vehicle or not, it is your driving status which is important. Unlike some other expats in Japan, Americans cannot get by on an International drivers license, so you need a Japanese one which it sounds like you already have. Youre good to go.