When was road transport added to SSW?

In 2024, covering trucking, bus and taxi segments.

What's needed to drive a taxi or bus?

A Japanese driver's license, including a Class 2 license, via conversion or training — allow lead time.

Which segment is most practical to start with?

It depends on license requirements and operations; trucking may be more accessible in some cases. Check official guidance.

Can we find support organizations for this new field?

Experienced RSOs are still limited. Search early by area and language on Watari.

SSW in road transport: trucking, bus & taxi (a new 2024 field)

By: Watari Editorial Team·Last updated: 2026-07-01

Road transport was added to the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) program in 2024, covering trucking (freight), bus, and taxi to address driver shortages. As a new field with limited precedent, employers who set up now have a first-mover advantage. This guide covers requirements, tests, licenses, and employer conditions.

The road transport field

An SSW field covering driving work in three segments: trucking (freight), bus (route/charter), and taxi. It was added recently amid an aging driver workforce and shortages.

Requirements (tests, Japanese, license)

Candidates pass a field skills test and a Japanese test (JFT-Basic or equivalent) and must obtain a Japanese driver's license. Bus and taxi require a Class 2 license, involving license conversion or training — plan for lead time before work starts.

Employer conditions

Beyond a transport business license, field-specific requirements apply, such as joining the field council and workplace-environment certifications. Conditions differ by segment; check official operational guidelines.

Hiring flow

Decide segment and confirm requirements → source candidates → contract → plan license acquisition → support plan (can outsource to an RSO) → status application → entry, training, work. Build license acquisition into the schedule.

→ Find logistics/transport organizations

Costs and support

Referral, application, and support fees apply, plus license/training costs. Few RSOs yet have experience in this new field, so securing a capable partner early is advantageous.

→ Registered support organizations

FAQ

When was road transport added to SSW?: In 2024, covering trucking, bus and taxi segments.
What's needed to drive a taxi or bus?: A Japanese driver's license, including a Class 2 license, via conversion or training — allow lead time.
Which segment is most practical to start with?: It depends on license requirements and operations; trucking may be more accessible in some cases. Check official guidance.
Can we find support organizations for this new field?: Experienced RSOs are still limited. Search early by area and language on Watari.

Logistics/transport organizations About SSW Registered support organizations Cost guide

General reference information. Requirements for this new field keep evolving; check official sources (MLIT, Immigration Services Agency).