#Japan #Gen Z #Tokyo #Shimokitazawa Driving School

The Rise of Driving License Aspirations Among Tokyo's Gen Z

A recent survey conducted by Shimokitazawa Driving School has unveiled intriguing insights into the driving aspirations of Tokyo's Generation Z, comprising individuals aged 18 to 25. The study reveals that approximately 75% of this demographic either holds or intends to obtain a standard driver's license. This is a remarkable statistic, particularly in a metropolis like Tokyo, where public transportation is highly accessible and car ownership is often deemed unnecessary.

Background

In recent years, the notion of "car離れ" (car disconnection) has become a trend, with many young people in urban areas distancing themselves from vehicle ownership. This is particularly relevant in Tokyo, where efficient public transport systems make it easy to navigate without a car. However, the survey by Shimokitazawa Driving School aims to uncover the underlying sentiments about driving licenses among the Z generation, born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s.

Survey Summary

The survey, conducted from May 8 to May 12, 2025, with a sample size of 285 participants, revealed the following key findings:

• - About 75% of surveyed individuals either have obtained or plan to obtain a driver's license.
• - The top three reasons for seeking a driver's license include:

1. Convenience in Transportation - 55.2%
2. Utility as an ID - 48.1%
3. Travel and Leisure Activities - 33.5%

• - Approximately 85% of participants stated they acquired or intend to acquire their licenses through a driving school.
• - The reasons for choosing a driving school include:

1. Convenience in Timing - 47.2%
2. Proximity to Home - 45.6%
3. Thorough Instruction - 26.1%

• - Key points of emphasis when selecting a driving school were:

1. Location - 53.9%
2. Cost - 48.3%
3. Flexible Scheduling - 33.9%

• - The most significant reason among those who do not intend to obtain a license is the belief that "mobility is not an issue without a car" - 43.8%.

Detailed Results

Current License Status

Upon inquiring if they currently possess a driver's license, responses revealed that 54.7% of participants do have a license, while 25.6% have no immediate plans to obtain one. Interestingly, 15.8% expressed a desire to get a license in the future, and 3.9% are actively attending driving school. This data underscores that a significant majority of the respondents are engaged with the idea of acquiring a license.

Motivations to Obtain a License

Participants who expressed intentions to acquire a license cited various reasons, showcasing a blend of practicality and lifestyle aspirations. While convenience in travel stands out, the utility of a license as a valid form of identification also proves compelling, along with aspirations for road trips and personal leisure activities. This multifaceted motivation reflects not just a desire for independence but also the socio-cultural understanding of driving as a skill essential in modern life.

Preferences for Driving Schools

When asked about how they plan to obtain their driver's licenses, a substantial segment (84.9%) indicated they would use driving schools. The popularity of driving schools among Gen Z speaks to their structured approach and convenience, especially in terms of scheduling and personal instruction. With busy lives, the ability to choose flexible lesson times and receive tailored training turns into a significant advantage for these young learners.

Considerations in Selection

The survey highlights preferences that feature the importance of location, affordability, and flexible schedules when selecting a driving school, showing that convenience plays a vital role in their decision-making process. Tokyo's dense urban layout fosters a demand for schools that are not only accessible but also reasonably priced, catering to the budget-conscious nature of most young people.

Conclusion

The survey elucidates that Tokyo's Generation Z is largely inclined toward obtaining driving licenses due to various practical reasons combined with aspirations for travel and leisure. Notably, about 85% view driving schools as their primary route to acquiring this critical skill. Shimokitazawa Driving School, located just three minutes from Shimokitazawa Station, capitalizes on this trend, offering competitive rates and a convenient location that perfectly aligns with the preferences of this youthful demographic.

In this context, driving schools like Shimokitazawa not only facilitate the learning process but also embody a cultural shift among young individuals in urban settings who seek to balance independence with practicality in the era of digital mobility and public transport.

For more details about Shimokitazawa Driving School, visit their official website.