If the Registration Certificate Is Lost, Stolen, or Destroyed: How to Get a Reissue
Last updated: 2026-06-25
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During a move or a long period of storage, a sword's registration certificate can go missing. It may also be lost through theft or disaster. So that you do not panic when this happens, it helps to know the basics of reissue.
First — the Registration Itself Does Not Lapse
The first reassurance: even if you lose the "paper" certificate, the registration itself does not lapse.
The registration data for the sword is kept by the prefectural Board of Education that performed the registration, as the registration master record (toroku-genpyo). In other words, the record that "this is a registered sword" remains on the Board of Education's side. That is exactly why, even if you lose the certificate, it can be restored through reissue.
The Reissue Procedure
If the certificate is lost, stolen, or destroyed, promptly report this to the issuing (registering) prefectural Board of Education and obtain a reissue. This is not optional; it is treated as an obligation to notify.
As with the Notification of Change of Owner, you file with the Board of Education at the place of registration (the issuer) — note, not your place of residence. In the case of theft, it is also worth considering a report to the police. For the exact form, required documents, and fees, check the guidance of the registering prefectural Board of Education (for example, the Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education).
Until You Receive the Reissue — What You Cannot Do
Even though the registration itself remains valid, there are things you cannot do, in practice, while the certificate is not in hand.
FAQ
If I lose the certificate, does the sword's registration become void?
No. Even if you lose the paper certificate, the registration itself does not lapse. The registration data remains with the prefectural Board of Education that performed the registration, as the registration master record, so it can be restored through a reissue.
Where do I apply for a reissue of the certificate?
With the issuing (registering) prefectural Board of Education. As with the Notification of Change of Owner, this is the Board of Education at the place of registration, not your place of residence. If it is lost, stolen, or destroyed, promptly report it and obtain a reissue. Check that Board of Education's guidance for the exact form, required documents, and fees.
Can I carry or sell the sword while I don't have the certificate?
Although the registration itself remains valid, carrying and transporting require you to carry the certificate, so moving the sword without it is not appropriate. Selling and transferring also require the certificate. Complete the reissue before carrying, transporting, or selling the sword.
If the certificate was lost through theft, do I also need to report to the police?
In the case of theft, it is worth considering a report to the police in addition to the reissue notification to the Board of Education. For details and required documents, confirm with the registering prefectural Board of Education.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Always confirm with the relevant authorities or a qualified professional.
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