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Automobile Recycling Fee: Who Qualifies and What You Get

Learn how the Automobile Recycling Fee works in Japan and what you need to pay when buying or owning a vehicle.

This fee is a mandatory payment intended to cover the future costs of properly disposing of and recycling your vehicle.

Who it's for

All vehicle owners are required to participate in this scheme.

What you get

By paying this fee, you are pre-paying for the eventual environmental disposal and recycling of your vehicle once you no longer need it.

What it costs you

You will pay a one-time fee at the time of vehicle purchase. The cost typically ranges from ¥7,000 to ¥18,000 depending on the vehicle.

The catch to know

If you are buying a used car, the recycling fee is not always included in the sale price. You must ensure you pay the previous owner for the recycling fee to ensure the vehicle is covered for future disposal.

How to apply

  1. Check if the recycling fee is included in your vehicle purchase price.
  2. If buying used, confirm with the seller that the fee has already been paid or is being transferred to you.
  3. Keep your receipt or documentation showing the fee has been settled.