Truck driver from USA

@Nicolasbolbolian

Hello and welcome !

Truck driving in Japan is different compared to the US. Most recruitment so far has focused on workers from countries with bilateral agreements with Japan (like the Philippines, Vietnam, etc.). You might find an opportunity but there are some conditions:

A valid Japanese truck driving license (your U.S. CDL isn’t directly valid; you’d need to convert and possibly retrain).

At least basic Japanese language skills (usually JLPT N4 level or higher).

Passing written and practical driving exams in Japan.

Meeting health/fitness standards.

Feel free to read the Living in Japan Guide for information about visa and recruitment websites : Living in Japan: the ultimate expat guide

All the best

Bhavna

Seems unlikely that you'd find such a job as a truck driver in Japan or probably in any Asian country because they prefer to use their own citizens or other Asian foreign workers because these are basically lower level jobs. Most foreigners that work in Asian countries become teachers or higher positions. But most importantly they have skills that locals don't really have. So I would forget about become a driver overseas and look at other ways to live in Asia as there are always ways to do this.

There was an ALT Insider podcast interview on this topic:

[link under review]

🚚 Episode Overview

Guest: Mike, a foreign truck driver living and working in Japan

Podcast: Inside Japan Podcast (formerly ALTInsider Podcast)

Length: ~31 minutes

Host: Charlie Moritz

Release Date: March 31, 2017

🌏 Key Themes

Life as a Truck Driver in Japan

Mike shares what it’s like working in a profession that’s not commonly pursued by foreigners.

He explains the challenges of navigating Japanese roads, regulations, and logistics culture.

Cultural Adaptation

Adjusting to Japanese work expectations, including punctuality and precision.

Differences between trucking in Japan vs. Western countries (smaller roads, stricter rules, more emphasis on safety).

Daily Routine

Insights into the schedule of a truck driver: early mornings, long hours, and the importance of efficiency.

The balance between physical demands and mental focus.

Why Truck Driving?

Mike’s personal journey: how he ended up in this career path in Japan.

The appeal of independence and steady work compared to teaching or office jobs.

💡 Takeaways

Foreigners can succeed in non-traditional jobs in Japan if they are willing to adapt and learn the language.

Work culture in Japan is demanding but rewarding — especially in industries like logistics where reliability is everything.

Mike’s story shows alternative career paths beyond teaching English, opening up possibilities for foreigners interested in blue-collar or specialized work.