Tips to Avoid Getting Arrested by Japanese Police Published May 8, 2023 Did you know causing a car accident that injures someone is considered a crime in Japan? Given the recent uptick in motorist accidents, we want to remind all service members, civilians, contractors, and dependents that causing a car accident resulting in an injury is a criminal offense in Japan. This crime carries a maximum punishment of seven years imprisonment or a fine of 1 million yen. You will be placed on international hold until the matter is resolved, meaning you will be prohibited from leaving Japan for TDY or leave. Your driving privileges will likely be revoked, potentially for the remainder of your time in the country. Even some speeding violations can lead to an international hold and substantial fines. Also, be careful with carrying knives! In Japan, it is illegal to carry a knife with a blade longer than 6 cm (approx. 2.36 inches). If the knife is a folding knife, including a multi-tool knife, any blade longer than 8 cm is illegal (approx. 3.14 inches). Please note that it is illegal to not only carry these types of knives on yourself (hands, pockets, etc.), but also to have them in your vehicle. Finally, we have also noticed an increase in accidents where individuals do not have valid Japanese Compulsory Insurance, also known as JCI. Driving without valid JCI is a crime in Japan. Do not wait to get a notice in the mail to renew your JCI — get started early! Also, remember that JCI and liability insurance are two separate requirements, and it is often the case that their expiration dates are at different times of the year. Please be attentive to these policies to avoid criminal liability and to reinforce goodwill with our Japanese partners and friends. It is part of being a responsible guest and a good citizen.