Does the JLPT expire?
Last checked: 2026-11-06
No. The JLPT FAQ says the certificate never expires, including results from the old test through 2009. But the FAQ also warns that some companies and schools set their own time limits, so a valid certificate is not always an accepted one.
When an old result can still cause a problem
The test makers do not set a limit, but the people reading your certificate might.
- Scholarships. MEXT's 2026 Japanese Studies guidelines say a Japanese-language certificate should be dated no earlier than two years before you apply. That proof is only needed if you have one, but an old certificate would not count there. See MEXT and JASSO requirements.
- Companies and schools. The JLPT FAQ says each one may set its own limit, so ask before you apply.
- CEFR level. Results from July 2025 or earlier stay valid but do not show a CEFR level.
What to do if you lost your certificate
For a lost Score Report or Certificate of Proficiency, you can order a duplicate "Certificate of Result and Scores". Where you apply depends on where you took the test. Korea and Taiwan have their own issuing sites.
| Tested in Japan | Tested elsewhere | |
|---|---|---|
| Apply through | JEES: MyJLPT, or a Certificate Issuance ID | JLPT online form |
| Fee per copy | 1,000 yen | 1,000 yen |
| Sent within Japan | No extra charge listed. Express 500 yen extra | No extra charge |
| Sent overseas | 1,000 yen extra (EMS) | 1,000 yen extra |
| Stated time | About 1 to 2 weeks in Japan after payment is confirmed. May be more than 2 weeks overseas | Up to 4 to 5 weeks, and some areas need a week or more for mailing |
| Express option | Express shipping only, not faster processing | None |
Fees are as shown on the JEES and JLPT pages on the date above. Payments cannot be refunded on either route.
Worked example: what a replacement costs
Our own sums from the table:
| Your situation | Total |
|---|---|
| Tested in Japan, sent in Japan by normal post | 1,000 yen |
| Tested in Japan, sent in Japan by express | 1,500 yen |
| Sent to an address outside Japan | 2,000 yen |
Compare that with the 7,500 yen test fee in Japan. A duplicate is much cheaper than taking the test again, and it proves the same result.
Before you order a duplicate
- Find your test date and registration details. In Japan, use the same MyJLPT ID you tested with.
- Allow time. Waits can be longer just after results come out and during holidays. There is no in-person pickup or electronic version on the overseas route.
- Check your name. The AATJ says the name on a certificate cannot be changed, even after a legal name change.
- Wait until results are out. For the newest test, overseas applications open the business day after the online results announcement. Earlier applications are invalid and are not refunded.