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Can you drive in Georgia with a Russian driving licence?

How long foreign licences are valid and when to exchange them.

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Short answer

Yes, you can drive in Georgia on a valid Russian licence, as with licences from other countries, for one year from your last entry into the country. If you live in Georgia longer without leaving, you need a Georgian licence. Rental companies sometimes also ask for an International Driving Permit.

A Year From Entry: What to Know About Driving Licences in Georgia faq-cover-cars-and-driving.png

Why

  1. Georgia recognises foreign licences for one year after your last entry into the country.
  2. Georgia and Russia are both parties to the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, so Russian licences are recognised.
  3. After a year you must exchange the licence at the Service Agency or take the test.

Details

The licence must be valid and carried in the original: a photo or digital copy is not accepted. If your licence expires within the year, you can only drive until that date.

Tip

Carry your original licence and passport with the entry stamp, which starts the one-year period.

What may differ

Rental companies may require driving experience and an international licence even if the law doesn't.

Common misconception

You can't drive in Georgia on a Russian licence; you need an international one.

What actually happens

A Russian licence is valid in Georgia for a year after entry, and an international one isn't required.

People also ask

  • Can I drive in Georgia with a foreign licence?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Traffic rules and licence exchange procedures may change, so check the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Service Agency websites.

A Year From Entry: What to Know About Driving Licences in Georgia
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