Traffic Rules in Georgia: What Tourists Need to Know Before Driving

Traffic Rules in Georgia — Key Things Tourists Should Know

Driving rules in Georgia mostly align with European standards, but there are some local quirks. If you're driving here for the first time, stay calm and drive carefully. Local drivers tend to be bold, sometimes aggressive, often honk, and occasionally break rules — don't follow their lead unless you want a fine.

What Documents Are Required to Drive in Georgia?

To drive a rental car in Georgia, your regular driver’s license is enough — as long as it has Latin characters. You don’t need an international driving permit. Always carry:

  1. Your driver’s license
  2. Passport
  3. Rental agreement
  4. Vehicle registration papers

Speed Limits in Georgia

  1. In cities and towns: up to 60 km/h
  2. Outside city limits: up to 90 km/h
  3. On highways: up to 110 km/h

Exceeding the limit by up to 15 km/h is often tolerated — but don’t count on it. Speed cameras are active and accurate.

Headlights Are Mandatory

Low beam headlights must be on:

  1. At night
  2. In tunnels
  3. During bad weather
  4. On mountain or winding roads

Fog lights are allowed only during fog or low visibility.

Seatbelts and Child Safety

  1. Front-seat passengers must wear seatbelts.
  2. Rear-seat belts aren’t mandatory, but strongly recommended.
  3. Children under 12 — only in the back seat.
  4. Children under 3 — must be in a car seat or held by a belted adult (16+).
  5. Never leave a child under 6 alone in the car.

Mobile Phone Use While Driving

You may only use your phone via:

  1. Speakerphone
  2. Bluetooth
  3. Built-in car system

Holding your phone while driving will get you a fine of 30 GEL (~$10).

Blood Alcohol Limit

  1. Legal limit: 0.3‰
  2. Penalty for violation:
  3. 700 GEL (~$225) fine
  4. License suspension up to 6 months

Georgia is strict about drunk driving — don’t risk it.

Common Traffic Fines in Georgia

Here are the most frequent reasons tourists get fined:

  1. Speeding — 50–250 GEL (~$16–$80)
  2. Driving without headlights — 15 GEL (~$5)
  3. Seatbelt violation — 40 GEL (~$15)
  4. Using phone without hands-free — 30 GEL (~$10)
  5. Crossing a solid line — 50 GEL (~$16)
  6. Drunk driving — 700 GEL (~$225) + license suspension
  7. Violating child transport rules — 40 GEL (~$15)

Tip: Failing to stop at a pedestrian crossing or STOP sign may also trigger fines — especially if caught on camera.

Talking to Police

If you’re stopped by the police:

  1. Pull over immediately
  2. Stay in the car
  3. Keep your hands on the wheel
  4. Politely show your documents

Don’t expect to “talk your way out” — everything is recorded. But if the issue is minor and you’re polite, you might get off with a warning.

How to Pay Fines

  1. Via payment terminals (menu available in Russian)
  2. At any bank using the receipt
  3. Through your rental company — DW Auto can assist during return

Important: Pay fines within 30 days to avoid penalties.

Rent a Car in Georgia with DW Auto

Want to explore mountain roads, the Black Sea coast, and ancient monasteries freely? DW Auto has the right vehicle for your trip:

  1. 🚗 100+ models: from economy to SUVs
  2. 🛡️ Insurance included
  3. 📍 Car delivery in Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi
  4. 📞 24/7 Russian-speaking support
  5. 💳 Transparent pricing — no hidden fees

Book online in minutes at dw-auto.ge and enjoy a safe, flexible adventure in Georgia!