Do You Need an IDP to Drive in Georgia?
Yes, if you plan to rent and drive a car in Georgia as an international visitor, you will need an International Driving Permit alongside your valid driver's license from your home country. Georgian traffic authorities recognize the IDP for Georgia as the official translation of your driving credentials, making it legally required for all foreign drivers. This is especially important if you're renting from major companies or traveling for extended periods across the country.
Both digital and physical International Driving Permits are accepted in Georgia. Our digital IDP for Georgia is available instantly, while our physical permit arrives within 3 to 5 business days via FedEx, giving you flexibility based on your travel timeline.
How to Get Your IDP for Georgia
Obtaining your International Driving Permit for Georgia is straightforward and can be completed entirely online. The process takes just minutes, and you'll have your permit ready before your trip begins. Here's exactly what to do:
- Apply online: Fill out the application form at our application page with your personal details and driver's license information
- Upload documents: Provide a clear copy of your valid driver's license, passport photo, and digital signature
- Choose your plan: Select between our digital IDP for Georgia at $39 or physical permit via FedEx for $69
- Receive your IDP: Digital permits arrive instantly to your email, physical permits ship within 3 to 5 business days
Driving Rules in Georgia
The Basics
Georgia drives on the RIGHT side of the road, just like most of continental Europe and Asia. The national currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL), which you'll need for tolls, fuel, and parking. Speed limits are strictly enforced: within cities like Tbilisi, the limit is 60 km/h, on regional roads it's 90 km/h, and on highways it can reach 110-120 km/h depending on the road. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.04%, which means even minimal alcohol consumption can result in fines. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and headlights must be used during the day on main roads. Your International Driving Permit for Georgia should always be carried together with your original driver's license and passport.
What to Carry
- Your IDP for Georgia - required by law alongside your original driver's license at all times
- Original driver's license from your home country, valid throughout your stay
- Passport for identification during vehicle document checks
- Vehicle registration and rental agreement if you're driving a rental car
- Insurance documents with Georgian coverage for the vehicle you're driving
- Proof of your International Driving Permit for Georgia (digital copy if using our digital option)
Renting a Car in Georgia
Renting a car in Georgia is affordable and convenient, with numerous agencies operating from Tbilisi International Airport and major cities. International companies like Hertz, Budget, and local Georgian agencies typically require drivers to be at least 21 years old, though some may have a minimum age of 25 for premium vehicles. You'll need your International Driving Permit for Georgia, original driver's license, passport, and a valid credit card for the security deposit, which usually ranges from $300 to $1,000 depending on the vehicle type.
Daily rental rates start around 30-50 GEL for economy cars and increase for larger vehicles. Fuel is inexpensive at approximately 3-4 GEL per liter, and parking is available throughout Tbilisi and other cities. For competitive rates, we recommend comparing prices through international booking platforms. Always present both your IDP for Georgia and original license at pickup, as this is legally required and rental companies will verify your International Driving Permit for Georgia before handing over the keys.
Best Places to Drive in Georgia
Georgia's diverse landscape offers incredible driving experiences, from urban exploration to mountain adventures. The country's excellent road network and relatively short distances make self-drive travel ideal for discovering hidden gems beyond traditional tourist routes.
- Tbilisi to Gonio Fortress: This scenic 120 km drive south takes you from Georgia's vibrant capital through the wine regions of Kakheti and down to the ancient fortress overlooking the Araxes River. The journey showcases the country's agricultural heartland and architectural heritage
- Tbilisi to Stepantsminda via Georgian Military Road: One of the world's most spectacular mountain drives, this route climbs through dramatic Caucasus scenery to Dariel Pass. The 170 km journey features hairpin turns, alpine meadows, and views of Mount Kazbek that justifies every twist and turn
- Black Sea Coastal Route: Drive from Tbilisi to Batumi along the coast, experiencing Georgia's subtropical climate. This 400 km journey combines mountain passes with seaside relaxation and cultural exploration in the beach resort town
- Wine Country Loop: Explore Kakheti and Kartli regions famous for Georgian wine production. The gentle rolling roads connect small villages, historic monasteries, and traditional wine cellars, offering a more leisurely pace
Safety Tips for Driving in Georgia
- Stay alert in Tbilisi traffic: Georgia's capital is known for spontaneous driving patterns and occasional aggressive behavior on the roads. Keep your International Driving Permit for Georgia handy along with your license, stay defensive, and don't hesitate to use your horn to signal presence
- Watch for poorly marked roads: Outside major cities, road markings can be unclear or missing entirely. Use GPS navigation and avoid driving after dark when visibility decreases significantly. Road conditions deteriorate in mountainous areas during winter months
- Be aware of police checkpoints: Traffic police conduct regular stops, particularly on main routes. Always have your International Driving Permit for Georgia, original license, vehicle documents, and insurance readily available. Fines for violations are paid on the spot and must be documented
- Respect local customs on mountain roads: Georgia's mountain passes are breathtaking but require respect. Slow down, use lower gears on descents, and never pass on blind curves. Local drivers know these roads well but may drive aggressively
- Plan fuel stops carefully: While gas stations are available in major towns, rural areas have limited services. Fill up before long stretches, especially heading into mountains. Keep emergency supplies, water, and a spare tire in your vehicle
Emergency in Georgia? Call 112 for police, fire, or medical emergencies. This number works from any phone and operators typically speak English in Tbilisi.
Georgia Travel Essentials for Drivers
Beyond your International Driving Permit for Georgia, consider these additional preparations. Currency exchange: while Georgian Lari is the local currency, ATMs are widely available in Tbilisi and larger cities but scarce in rural areas. Mobile connectivity is excellent and affordable, making GPS navigation through apps like Google Maps reliable throughout the country. Georgian hospitality is legendary, so expect warmth and helpfulness from locals, though few speak English outside major tourist areas. Purchase comprehensive car insurance that includes medical coverage, as this is mandatory for driving in Georgia. Finally, familiarize yourself with Georgian road signs, which use Cyrillic script, though major routes are increasingly labeled in Latin characters for international drivers.
Get Your IDP for Georgia Today
Don't let paperwork slow down your Georgian adventure. Your International Driving Permit for Georgia is essential for legal driving, and our streamlined application process makes getting it faster than ever. Choose our instant digital IDP for Georgia at just $39 if your trip is coming up soon, or invest in the physical permit for $69 if you prefer traditional documentation. Both options are fully accepted by Georgian authorities, rental companies, and local law enforcement.