Japan is a country with a very limited amount of land available due to its geography, making it one of the most densely populated countries in the world. As a result, there’s limited space for building and living areas, and parking on the street is not an option. That’s why people living in Japan are required to prove that they have a parking space before they’re allowed to buy a car. Implemented in 1962, Japan’s Proof of Parking policy requires car owners to obtain what’s known as a Shako Shomeisho — parking certificate — much like you would get a state inspection. The certificate confirms that the car owner has access to a parking space of sufficient width and length for their vehicle, within one mile of their residential address. Residents can pay a small fee and apply for the certificate at their local police station, after which a police officer or parking inspector will be sent to assess the space before proving the application. Then, the owner can proceed with registering the vehicle.
