DrivinJapan.com Pros & Cons

When evaluating any online service, a balanced look at its advantages and disadvantages is crucial.

Read more about drivinjapan.com:
DrivinJapan.com Review & First Look
DrivinJapan.com Features

DrivinJapan.com, while offering valuable services for travelers to Japan, also presents certain aspects that prospective users should consider carefully.

Understanding these points allows for a more informed decision regarding its suitability for individual travel needs.

Advantages of Using DrivinJapan.com

The website highlights several compelling reasons why travelers might choose their services, focusing on convenience, reliability, and added value.

• Streamlined Translation Process: For nationalities whose licenses require JAF translation, DrivinJapan.com simplifies what could otherwise be a complex process. They handle the bureaucracy, saving users time and effort.
• Official JAF Certification: The explicit claim that translations are “officially certified by JAF” is a significant advantage, as this ensures the document is legally recognized for driving in Japan.
• Convenient eSIM Service: The “unlimited data” eSIM offers instant connectivity upon arrival, eliminating the need to search for physical SIM cards or portable Wi-Fi devices. This is a major convenience for modern travelers.
• Multilingual Customer Support: Support in both French and English caters to a broad international audience, making communication easier for non-Japanese speakers.
• Online Order Tracking: The ability to track the progress of a translation request online provides transparency and reassurance to customers.
• Value-Added DJ E-Card: Receiving a free discount card with a translation order enhances the overall value proposition by offering potential savings with various partners in Japan.
• Established Presence: Operating “since 2017” suggests a track record and experience in serving international travelers to Japan.
• Secure Payment Gateway: The use of “secure payment processors” instills confidence regarding financial transactions.
• Flexible Delivery Options: Offering delivery to home, hotel, or car rental agency adds a layer of convenience tailored to the traveler’s itinerary.

Disadvantages and Considerations for DrivinJapan.com

Despite its advantages, there are several points that prospective users should critically assess before committing to DrivinJapan.com.

• “Not officially affiliated” with JAF: This is the most significant point of concern. While they claim JAF certification, their non-affiliation suggests they are an intermediary. This could potentially mean:
  • Slightly Longer Processing Times: An intermediary might add an extra step compared to direct application through JAF.
  • Less Direct Control: Users might have less direct recourse with JAF if an issue arises, though DrivinJapan’s support aims to mitigate this.
  • Information Discrepancy: While they facilitate JAF certification, the official website of JAF might offer more granular detail or direct support that an intermediary cannot.
• Pricing vs. Direct JAF Application: While competitive, it’s worth comparing DrivinJapan’s translation cost (from €59.90, approx. $65 USD) against the direct JAF cost (around 3,000 JPY, approx. $20 USD). The premium is for convenience and intermediation.
• Limited Scope of Services: While they offer core essentials, they don’t provide comprehensive travel agency services for planning entire itineraries, accommodation bookings (beyond potentially partnered discounts), or detailed ground support.
• Reliance on WhatsApp for Support: While convenient, some users may prefer traditional phone support or more extensive online chat functionalities for complex issues.
• Partnership Clarity: While the DJ E-Card promises partner discounts, the specific partners are not clearly listed on the homepage, making it hard to assess the real value upfront.
• No Information on Refunds/Cancellations: The homepage doesn’t explicitly outline policies for refunds, cancellations, or changes to orders, which is crucial for international travel planning where unforeseen circumstances can arise.
• Focus on Specific Nationalities: While they serve a broad range, the explicit mention of certain European countries and Taiwan means others might need to confirm if their services apply.
• Trustpilot Reviews: While linking to Trustpilot is good, users should always read a representative sample of reviews to get a full picture of customer experiences, both positive and negative. At the time of this review, DrivinJapan.com’s Trustpilot page should be checked independently for current ratings and specific feedback.