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.
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 GeorgiaRelated questions
-
How much does it cost to clear a car through customs in Georgia?
Excise on a passenger car cleared in Georgia depends on the engine volume and on the age of the car, either up to 6 years inclusive or older.
-
How does the driver penalty points system work in Georgia?
Each driving licence in Georgia gets 100 points for the calendar year, offences deduct points, and when they run out the right to drive is suspended for 1 year.
-
How can you check a car before buying it in Georgia?
Before buying a car in Georgia you can order a legal status certificate from the MIA Service Agency, which shows the registration data, attachment, pledge, tax pledge and wanted status.
-
How do you register a car or transfer ownership in Georgia?
Cars in Georgia are registered and transferred at the Ministry of Internal Affairs Service Agency, in its service centers or online, with an inspection act and the owner's documents.