Overview
行政書士試験 (the Administrative Scrivener Exam) is the licensing exam for gyoseishoshi (administrative scriveners) in Japan, professionals who, for a fee, prepare documents to be submitted to government offices and documents on rights, duties or facts, such as permit applications and contracts. The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications oversees the exam and has designated the Administrative Scrivener Examination Research Center, a general incorporated foundation based in Tokyo, to run it.
Who can apply
There are no restrictions based on age, education or nationality. Anyone can sit the exam.
Exam pattern
The exam is a written test held once a year, on the second Sunday of November, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. It has two subject groups, with 60 questions in all.
| Subject group | Questions | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Laws and regulations relevant to the work | 46 | Multiple choice and written-answer questions |
| Basic knowledge relevant to the work | 14 | Multiple choice |
The first group draws on the Constitution, administrative law, civil law, commercial law and basic legal studies. The second group draws on general knowledge, laws closely tied to the work such as the Administrative Scrivener Act, information and communications and personal data protection, and reading comprehension. Laws are tested as in force on 1 April of the exam year. Candidates can sit at any exam site in Japan, whatever their address. The Research Center announces the sites in the second week of July.
Marking and results
The FY2025 standard (the latest published when this page was checked) gave a total of 300 points. To pass, a candidate needed all of the following:
At least 122 points in the laws and regulations group (out of 244).
At least 24 points in the basic knowledge group (out of 56).
At least 180 points overall.
The centre sets the standard each year, so check the one for your sitting. Results for the 2026 exam are announced on 27 January 2027.
Important dates
2026 sitting:
| Item | Date |
|---|---|
| Online application | 21 July to 24 August 2026 |
| Mail application | 21 July to 17 August 2026 (postmark deadline) |
| Exam day | Sunday 8 November 2026, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM |
| Results announced | Wednesday 27 January 2027 |
Fees
The 2026 exam fee is ¥10,400.
How to apply
Applications can be made online or by mail within the periods above. The Research Center publishes the application guidance documents, including the pass-determination standard, on its official site.
Preparation tips
Read the Research Center's published pass-determination standard before planning your study, since the pass criteria are set out there.
Apply early within the window, as the mail deadline is a week earlier than the online one.
FAQs
Do I need a degree to take the Administrative Scrivener Exam?
No. The Research Center states that age, education and nationality do not matter, and anyone can apply.
What is the exam fee in 2026?
¥10,400.