A large-scale relief measure is underway in Gunma Prefecture, Japan, following the discovery of numerous errors in the drafting and grading of written driving license examinations for foreign nationals. According to local police announcements, the pass/fail status of a total of 395 candidates was affected over a period of approximately three years.
15 Drafting and Grading Errors Confirmed in Foreign Language Written Exams
On October 29, 2026, the Driver's License Division of the Gunma Prefectural Police Department announced that a total of 15 errors were identified in the exam questions and grading systems for standard vehicle licenses and provisional driving licenses (learner's permits) intended for foreign nationals.
These drafting errors occurred during exams conducted over roughly three years, from July 2023 to September 2026. The affected scope includes exam papers provided in eight languages, including English, Vietnamese, and Portuguese.
Relief for 367 Wrongly Failed Applicants: Examination Fee Refunds Implemented
The pass/fail determination of 395 test-takers was altered due to these errors.
- Relief for wrongly failed applicants: A total of 367 applicants across both provisional and standard licenses were incorrectly failed despite answering correctly, due to grading errors and other issues.
- Re-examination fee refunds: The Gunma Prefectural Police will proceed with fee refund procedures for 364 individuals who retook the exam after receiving a notice of failure.
- Measures for incorrectly passed applicants: For the 28 individuals incorrectly marked as passing, it was decided that their issued driver's licenses will remain valid on the condition that they complete supplementary training.
Uncovered During Comprehensive Inspection for Road Traffic Act Revision
This issue came to light during a comprehensive inspection and full review of exam questions conducted in line with the September 2026 revision of the Road Traffic Act. The primary cause was identified as human error resulting from inadequate verification by personnel during the revision and proofreading of the exam papers.
Important Information for Foreign Residents in Japan
Foreign residents who have obtained or are preparing to obtain a driver's license in Japan through foreign-language written exams should take note of this case. Those who took a foreign-language written exam in Gunma Prefecture during the specified period are advised to check announcements from the police department and review their own examination history.
Tools: Internet Finder
Source: 毎日新聞