Parking Space Certificate (車庫証明) in Japan – Easy Guide for Foreigners in Fukuoka & Kyushu
If you plan to buy a car in Fukuoka or anywhere in Kyushu, you must understand the Parking Space Certificate, also known as Shako Shomeisho (車庫証明).
At KMC Japan, we support many foreign residents in Fukuoka, Kitakyushu, Kurume, Saga, Kumamoto, and across Kyushu. This guide explains what 車庫証明 is, why it is needed, and how to get it in simple and easy language.
What Is a Parking Space Certificate (車庫証明)?
A Parking Space Certificate is an official document issued by the police. It proves that you have a legal parking space near your home before registering a car in Japan.
In cities like Fukuoka, street parking is strictly controlled, so proof of parking is required for car ownership.
Is 車庫証明 Required in Fukuoka & Kyushu?
Yes, in most cases.
You need a Parking Space Certificate if:
- You live in an urban area such as Fukuoka or Kitakyushu
- You are buying a normal-sized vehicle
- You are registering or transferring ownership of a car
🚗 Exception: Some kei cars (軽自動車) in rural areas of Kyushu may not require 車庫証明. This depends on local police regulations.
Where Must the Parking Space Be Located?
The parking space must be:
- Within 2 km of your registered address
- For your exclusive use
- Large enough for your vehicle
The parking space can be:
- Parking at your home
- Monthly rented parking
- Apartment or mansion parking space
Documents Needed for 車庫証明
You will usually need:
- Application form from the police station
- Simple map showing the parking location
- Parking layout drawing
- Parking rental contract or ownership proof
- Inkan (seal) or signature
📌 If the parking is rented, permission from the landlord or parking owner is required.
How to Apply for Parking Space Certificate
- Secure a parking space near your home
- Visit the police station responsible for your address
- Submit the required documents
- Pay the application fee
- Wait for approval (about 3–7 days)
The police may check the parking space before approval.
Cost of 車庫証明
The police fee is usually around ¥2,000–¥3,000, depending on the prefecture in Kyushu.
If a dealer handles the process, a small service fee may apply.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Applying before securing parking
- ❌ Using public or street parking
- ❌ Incorrect maps or documents
- ❌ Parking space too far from home
How KMC Japan Helps Foreigners in Fukuoka & Kyushu
At KMC Japan, we make the process easy by:
- ✔ Confirming if 車庫証明 is required
- ✔ Preparing all documents
- ✔ Communicating with police stations
- ✔ Completing car registration smoothly
We support foreign customers across Fukuoka and the Kyushu region, ensuring a stress-free car buying experience.
Final Thoughts
The Parking Space Certificate is an important step when buying a car in Japan, especially in cities like Fukuoka. Once you understand the rules, the process becomes simple.
If you are planning to buy a car in Fukuoka or Kyushu and need help with 車庫証明, 👉 Contact KMC Japan and let us handle everything for you.
