JapanCan you be arrested for speeding?
Yes, you can be arrested for speeding in Japan if you exceed the speed limit by 30 km/h or more on ordinary roads, or by 40 km/h or more on expressways.
What the Law Says
Speeding in Japan is governed by the Road Traffic Act. While most speeding violations result in administrative penalties (fines, points), excessively high speeds constitute a criminal offense punishable by arrest and prosecution.
Under Japanese law, exceeding the posted speed limit by 30 km/h or more on ordinary roads—or by 40 km/h or more on expressways—is classified as 'dangerous driving' under the Road Traffic Act. This triggers criminal liability, not just traffic penalties.
The law treats such conduct as posing a serious threat to public safety. Offenders may face arrest, prosecution, and penalties including imprisonment or fines—or both.
Statutory TextA person who drives a vehicle at a speed exceeding the speed limit prescribed under Article 25, paragraph (1) by 30 km/h or more on roads other than expressways, or by 40 km/h or more on expressways, shall be punished by imprisonment with work for not more than six months or a fine of not more than one hundred thousand yen, or both.
— Road Traffic Act, s. 70-2 — Punishment for dangerous driving
What to Do
Immediately stop and comply with police instructions if signaled.
Do not admit guilt or sign documents without understanding them.
Contact a lawyer before making statements—criminal speeding charges require legal counsel.
Check your driver’s license status; severe speeding may trigger immediate suspension or revocation.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.