If you’re stationed near Yokosuka and own a vehicle, 2025 brings a few updates you can’t afford to miss. Japan’s road laws are detailed, and staying compliant ensures uninterrupted base access and peace of mind. Whether you’re new to owning a car in Japan or just need a refresher, this 2025 checklist breaks down everything you need to keep your vehicle road-ready.
At Direct Cars, we help customers not only find the best used cars near Yokosuka but also guide them through every step of ownership — including road tax, JCI, and registration support. Let’s walk through the essentials for this year.
1. Understanding the 2025 Road Tax Season
Starting June 1, 2025, every vehicle must display the 2025 USFJ decal (Reiwa 7). If your vehicle is still showing the 2024 decal, you’ll be denied base access — and possibly face impoundment.
To stay compliant:
- Pay the Japanese road tax
- Receive your new USFJ decal
- Display it properly before June 1, 2025
Direct Cars customers get timely reminders and assistance with all required paperwork — because no one wants surprises at the gate.
2. Where to Pay Road Tax Near Yokosuka
For standard vehicles, you can pay your tax conveniently at on-base events. However, if you miss the Fleet Theater days, you’ll need to pay off-base at the Kanagawa Prefectural Tax Office.
Fees for 2025:
Motorcycle Tax:
- Mini Car (Yellow Plate): ¥3,000
- 400, 500, 501, 529 Plates: ¥7,500
- 300, 301, 329 (4.5L and below): ¥19,000
- 300, 301, 329 (4.6L and above): ¥22,000
- 100 Plate: ¥32,000
Motorcycle Tax:
- 126cc and above: ¥1,000
- 125cc and below: ¥500
Cash only (in Yen) is accepted.
At Direct Cars, we remind buyers of payment deadlines and offer full support for JCI, LTO registration, and even Road Tax payment so you’re not left figuring it all out alone.
3. Receiving Your 2025 Decal
Once your road tax is paid, head to your VRO (Vehicle Registration Office) to receive the decal. But make sure to carry all the necessary documents:
- ID Card
- 2025 Road Tax Receipt
- Japanese Vehicle Title
- JCI and Liability Insurance
- Base Inspection Sheet (if applicable)
- Parking Certificate (updated with current address)
- Driver’s License (for all vehicles owned)
- Letter of Employment (for contractors/civilians)
If you’re sending someone else to collect your decals, make sure they have a Power of Attorney (POA). For multiple vehicles, all must be registered simultaneously to receive decals.
Need help? Direct Cars walks you through this step-by-step or handles the process when you purchase your car through us.
4. Important 2025 Event Dates for Yokosuka
Plan ahead and avoid the rush:
- March 17–18 and April 10–11, 2025
- 9:00–11:45 AM and 1:00–3:15 PM
- Fleet Theater (On base)
- Not for minicars or motorcycles
For minicars and motorcycles:
- Start paying tax from April 1, 2025
- Payment at Yokosuka City Hall (off-base)
Missed these dates? Direct Cars can guide you to the nearest tax office or offer help managing off-base requirements.
5. Pro Tips for Smooth Driving Around Yokosuka
Unlike buying from private sellers or trying to register an imported car yourself, Direct Cars simplifies everything. The vehicles we offer are ready for the road — fully serviced, thoroughly inspected, and compliant with all regulations.
Whether you’re looking for a fuel-efficient commuter, a family-friendly van, or a rugged SUV that can handle the snow, we’ve got vehicles that fit your lifestyle in Misawa. And yes — they come with registration support built in.
Why Customers Near Misawa Choose Direct Cars
Besides staying legal, driving around Yokosuka smoothly means being prepared for local driving conditions.
- Keep your navigation system updated
- Know how to use your ETC card reader for toll roads
- Stay on top of routine maintenance (we include full service with every purchase)
- Consider having a backup key and keep your documents handy
At Direct Cars, every vehicle comes with fresh oil, full service, and documentation ready — making us your one-stop shop for road-readiness in Yokosuka.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Road Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful — especially when you’re backed by a dealership that understands the needs of base personnel. From helping you choose the perfect vehicle to making sure your road tax, JCI, and decals are always up to date, Direct Cars is committed to keeping you on the road and off the worry list.
Looking to buy a used car near Yokosuka? Visit Direct Cars today — where reliability meets service!
