How long is the JLPT certificate valid? This is a common question for learners who plan to use their JLPT results for jobs, study, or immigration. In this article, we’ll explain JLPT certificate validity clearly for all levels—from N5 to N1—so you know exactly what to expect.
What Is the JLPT Certificate?
The JLPT certificate is an official document awarded to individuals who pass the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)—an internationally recognized exam that measures Japanese language ability in reading, vocabulary, grammar, and listening.
The test has five levels, from N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced), and is conducted by the Japan Foundation and JEES (Japan Educational Exchanges and Services). Each level assesses a learner’s command of Japanese suitable for real-world use, academic study, or professional environments.
Once you pass the exam, you receive two official documents:
- Score Report – a detailed breakdown of your performance
- Certificate of Proficiency – a formal certificate proving you passed the level
This certificate is often required when applying to Japanese universities, companies, or language-based programs, and serves as credible proof of your Japanese ability.
Understanding the validity and long-term value of this certificate is important for making academic and career decisions—so let’s explore how long it actually lasts.
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JLPT certificate validity
JLPT Score Report vs. Official Certificate
|
Criteria |
JLPT Score Report |
Official JLPT Certificate of Proficiency |
|
What it is |
A detailed breakdown of your test performance |
An official certificate proving you passed a JLPT level |
|
Who receives it |
All test-takers (pass or fail) |
Only those who pass the exam |
|
Includes |
- Section scores (vocabulary, grammar, reading, listening) - Pass/fail status |
- Your name - Level passed (e.g., N2) - Exam date - Official seals |
|
Purpose |
For self-evaluation and academic review |
For official use in job, school, or visa applications |
|
Validity |
Valid indefinitely, but rarely requested |
Valid for life; accepted globally as proof of Japanese proficiency |
|
Expiration |
No expiration, but not commonly used for official submissions |
No expiration; widely accepted in academic and professional contexts |
|
Reissue option |
Available (typically within 5 years after test date) |
Available (typically within 5 years after test date) |
How Long Does JLPT Certificate Last?
The JLPT certificate lasts for a lifetime—it does not have an expiration date. Once you pass any level of the JLPT (from N5 to N1), your results remain valid permanently. The Japan Foundation, which oversees the exam, clearly states that JLPT certificates do not expire, and you can use them as proof of Japanese proficiency at any time in the future.
However, while the official validity is permanent, how long your certificate is accepted or considered relevant may vary depending on its intended use:
For Job Applications
Many Japanese companies accept JLPT certificates from any year, but some employers—especially in language-intensive roles—may prefer certificates earned within the last 2–3 years, as they better reflect your current language ability.
For University Admission or Scholarships
Schools and scholarship programs often accept JLPT N2 or N1 for admission requirements. However, some institutions may ask for a certificate that was issued within the past 2 to 5 years to ensure your proficiency is up to date.
For Personal or Immigration Use
If you're using the JLPT to evaluate your own progress, there's no need to worry about timing. However, JLPT is not typically required for Japanese visa or immigration, except in some programs like the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa where a language level equivalent to N4 or N5 may be requested.
Validity by Level: JLPT N5 to N1
While the JLPT certificate is valid for life regardless of level, how it is used and recognized can vary depending on whether you hold N5 or N1. Below is a breakdown of each level’s practical validity and purpose.
|
JLPT Level |
Proficiency |
Typical Use Cases |
Practical Validity & Recognition |
|
N5 |
Beginner |
Personal learning, basic communication |
Rarely used officially; good for tracking early progress |
|
N4 |
Upper beginner |
Entry-level jobs, part-time work, language school applications |
Occasionally accepted for low-requirement roles or beginner programs |
|
N3 |
Pre-intermediate |
Internships, daily life, intermediate study programs |
Sometimes accepted; seen as a transition to N2 |
|
N2 |
Upper intermediate |
University admission, full-time jobs, working in Japan |
Widely accepted; highly valued in professional and academic settings |
|
N1 |
Advanced / near-native |
Academic research, professional roles, interpretation |
Most respected level; valid long-term, though recent results may be preferred |
Reminder
All JLPT certificates are officially valid for life, but practical expectations (especially for N2/N1) may require recent scores depending on the institution or employer.
FAQ - JLPT certificate validity
Does JLPT expire after 2 or 5 years?
No, it does not.
The JLPT certificate has no expiration date. Once you pass a level (N5 to N1), the certificate remains valid for life. However, some employers or schools may prefer that the certificate was obtained recently (e.g., within the last 2–5 years) to reflect your current language ability. This is a practical preference, not a rule by the JLPT authority.
Do I need to retake the JLPT after a few years to keep it valid?
No, you don't need to.
There is no requirement to retake the JLPT to maintain your certificate’s validity. That said, if you took the exam many years ago and haven’t used Japanese regularly, it might be a good idea to retake it to demonstrate up-to-date skills—especially if applying for competitive jobs or academic programs.
To keep your skills sharp, consider taking JLPT practice tests regularly.
JLPT validity
Are lower levels like N5 or N4 valid forever too?
Yes, all levels have lifetime validity.
Even if the level is basic (like N5 or N4), the certificate is still considered official proof that you passed the exam. However, these lower levels are rarely requested in formal applications and are typically used for personal learning milestones.
Is JLPT validity only in Japan?
No.
The JLPT is an international certification and is accepted by companies, universities, and institutions worldwide—especially in Asia, Europe, and North America. Many Japanese companies abroad also recognize it as a benchmark for hiring.
Does the JLPT certificate need to be renewed or updated?
No.
There is no renewal process for JLPT certificates. Once issued, it is valid indefinitely. You only need to request a reissue if your certificate is lost and it's within the allowed reissue period (usually within 5 years of the test date).
Can I use an old JLPT certificate for job applications?
Yes, but it depends.
Most employers will accept your certificate no matter when you passed. However, for language-sensitive roles, companies may prefer results obtained within the last few years. If you're unsure, it's best to ask the company or institution directly.
Is there a digital version of the JLPT certificate?
Currently, no official digital certificate is issued. Only a printed certificate is sent by mail. If you need to share your result online, you can scan and submit your official paper certificate or the score report, depending on the recipient's preference.
How long does JLPT certificate last
Final Tip
Don’t confuse “official lifetime validity” with “practical expectations”. While your JLPT certificate will never expire, how useful it is may depend on how recently you earned it and how actively you’ve maintained your language skills.
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Conclusion
Understanding JLPT certificate validity is important for anyone using their results for jobs, study, or personal growth. While the certificate is valid for life, its practical value may depend on how recent your score is and how well you've maintained your language skills. To stay prepared and confident, use Migii JLPT for free mock tests, grammar review, and study materials tailored to every JLPT level.
