Joint Tactical Ground Station (JTAG) - Misawa Air Base

C. CAR / LICENSE INFORMATION: Return to Table of Contents
It is not advisable to ship a car to Misawa for several reasons – high cost of extensive modifications
needed to meet Japanese emission controls ($1,500 or more), lack of replacement parts, and steering
wheel on left side of the vehicle makes driving hazardous. Vehicles need to be converted back to original
condition prior to shipping back to the U.S. for conformance with EPA/DOT standards. Reliable
transportation can be easily obtained, either on base or off base, ranging from $1,000-$5,000. You may
ship a motorcycle to Japan in your HHG shipment if it meets the emission and brake laws. For return
shipment to U.S., you must show proof of shipment from the U.S. (use of inventory is valid).
Motorcycles (50cc or more) must meet EPA/DOT requirements to re-enter the United States.
However, if you feel strongly about bringing your POV to Misawa, please be aware that POV shipments
are subject to embargo or waiver requirements.
POVs manufactured prior to 31 March 1976 will have to meet the insurance, taxes, registration fees and
local vehicle emission standards and safety requirements (headlights, color of bulbs, MPH to KPH
speedometer, etc.). This category will not require a waiver and may be shipped to Mainland Japan as
appropriate. Estimated cost per vehicle is $600 to $1200 based on 82 Yen to $1.00 US dollar.
POVs manufactured after 31 March 1976 will have to pass the Japanese Vehicle Emission Standards
(JVES), plus the above mentioned items (insurance, tax, and registration requirements). This category
will require prior approval (a waiver) from the gaining Transportation Officer (see below for contact
information). Estimated cost per vehicle is $3650 to $6075 based on 82 Yen to $1.00 US dollar.
Due to the remote locations and size of Misawa AB, there are no on base facilities authorized to modify
or inspect vehicles to meet Japan emission and safety standards. The estimated cost per vehicle may be
$2450 to $6075 based on 82 Yen to $1.00 US dollar
Members should contact their sponsors and/or transportation offices regarding the waiver process.
Personal Property Office, 35 LRS/LGRDF Misawa AB, Unit 5014, Box #29 APO AP 96319-5014
Phone Number (DSN) 315-226-3525
Email Address: 35 LRS.LGRT@misawa.af.mil
When requesting a waiver the following information should be included:
Make/year/model of vehicle and vehicle identification number (VIN), if equipped with California
emission.
To obtain a Japan driver’s license; you must have a current and valid stateside license and take a written
test. Japan uses international road signs, which are a little different than the States. We also drive on the
left side of the road, which takes a little getting used to. Driver’s Training is offered to new personnel
weekly and driver’s licenses are issued at that training.
D. HOUSING: Return to Table of Contents
Mandatory assignment to on base family housing began September 2009 for all accompanied, active duty
members of all services are made by the Housing Office. Rank and family size will determine your
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