Can you drive in Georgia with a Russian driving licence?
How long foreign licences are valid and when to exchange them.
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.
Why
- Georgia recognises foreign licences for one year after your last entry into the country.
- Georgia and Russia are both parties to the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, so Russian licences are recognised.
- 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.
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.
Related questions
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How far over the speed limit can you go in Georgia, and what are the fines?
In Georgia you are fined for exceeding the limit by more than 15 km/h: under amendments passed by parliament in June 2026, 15-30 km/h over costs 50 GEL, 30-50 km/h over 100 GEL, and more than 50 km/h over 300 GEL.
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How much does it cost to clear a car from Georgia through Russian customs?
Clearing a car from Georgia through Russian customs as a private individual involves a single customs duty based on the car's age and engine size, a recycling fee and a processing fee.
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Can you buy a car in Georgia and drive it in Russia on Georgian plates?
A foreigner can buy a car in Georgia and register it in their name at the Service Agency, receiving Georgian plates.
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What do Georgian licence plates look like?
A standard Georgian plate is white with the format two letters, three digits, two letters, for example AA-123-AA, with the Georgian flag and the code GE on the left.