Why Traveling Georgia by Car Is Worth It

What Tourists with a Rental Car Need to Know

Georgia is a country where the road itself becomes part of the adventure. The journey here is not just about getting from one attraction to another, but a standalone experience: winding mountain passes, the vineyards of Kakheti, monasteries perched on cliffs, the Black Sea coastline, and markets in small provincial towns.

Public transportation doesn’t even cover half of this picture. Renting a car in Georgia gives you access to authentic villages, remote gorges, and flexible routes. It’s the freedom to choose your pace, destination, and direction.



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Why Rent a Car in Tbilisi or Batumi?

If you’re starting your trip in Tbilisi, renting a car allows you to reach places like Sighnaghi, Kakheti, or Kazbegi on your own schedule. The same goes for Batumi — car rental is ideal for exploring Adjara and the Black Sea coast.
Flexible Routes

You decide where to stop and can change your route along the way — especially valuable in a country with such diverse landscapes.

Access to Remote Regions
Public transport doesn’t reach places like Tusheti, Ushguli, or remote monasteries. You’ll need your own or a rental vehicle — often a 4×4.

Scenic Roads
In Georgia, the journey is often more impressive than the destination: mountain rivers, flocks of sheep, cliffs — it’s like watching a movie through your window.

Save Time
A drive from Tbilisi to Sighnaghi takes 1.5 hours by car but twice as long by bus.

Comfort and Privacy
Ideal for families, couples, and those who prefer to avoid crowded public transport.

How Safe Is It to Drive in Georgia?

Local roads and driving style can be intimidating for first-timers. Online forums are filled with both awe and shock — some praise the freedom, while others warn about chaotic traffic.
The reality:
Yes, drivers may overtake on curves, skip turn signals, and drive "by intuition." But most locals are courteous, experienced, and very aware of road conditions. The key is to take your time, drive carefully, and plan your route ahead.

Choosing the right car:
For most routes, a regular car will do. But if you’re going through, say, the Abano Pass to Tusheti, rent a 4WD — and only go in dry weather.


What Documents Do You Need to Rent and Drive in Georgia?

Driver’s License
National driver’s licenses are accepted if they are in English or Georgian.
If your license is in Russian, Ukrainian, French, etc., it’s recommended to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) especially for rentals.
Without an IDP, you may face issues in accidents or insurance claims, though in practice, it’s often not a problem.


Driver Requirements

Parameter

Requirement
Minimum driving age
18 years old
Minimum rental age
21 (sometimes 23)
Minimum driving experience
1–2 years
Car rental in Georgia Tbilisi Batumi Kutaisi
Some companies rent to drivers aged 18+ but with limitations (economy class, extra fee of $5–10/day)

What to Bring?

Passport
Driver’s license
(and IDP if required)
Rental agreement
Our managers are always ready to answer your questions. You can call us at the weekends and at night.
Insurance
(TPL or full coverage)
We use a unique technique that allows us to better focus on our clients' problems.
Vehicle registration
(if it’s your own car)
Power of attorney
(if the car isn’t yours)

Temporary Import

When entering Georgia, a temporary vehicle import is issued — typically valid for 90 days. For a longer stay, you must either leave the country or extend the vehicle registration.
Car rental in Georgia Tbilisi Batumi Kutaisi

Is Insurance Required in Georgia?


  • Third-Party Liability (TPL / ОСАГО)
Not legally required but highly recommended, especially for rental cars. Covers damage to third parties and their property.

  • Full Coverage (КАСКО)
Covers damage to the car, theft, fire, and sometimes glass/tires. Especially useful in mountainous areas.

Even with full insurance, a deductible ($200–$1000) may apply.

Fines and Road Rules in Georgia


Speed Limits

Road Type __________Speed Limit
Urban areas _______ _ 50 km/h
Outside citie ________ 90 km/h
Highways (S1, S2) ____ Up to 110 km/h

Alcohol Limit

Up to 0.03% (0.3‰). Police conduct regular roadside checks, especially near resorts.


Police & Cameras

Common violations recorded:
  • Speeding
  • Running red lights
  • Phone use while driving
  • Illegal parking

Fines (in Georgian Lari)

Where to pay:

  • police.ge
  • My.gov.ge app
  • PayBox terminals
  • Automatically (for rental cars in Tbilisi or Batumi — charged to your card)
Speeding 15–40 km/h over
50 - 150 gel
Red light
100 gel
No seatbelt
40 gel
Phone use while driving
30 - 50 gel
Illegal parking
10 - 40 gel
Drunk driving
200 - 500+ gel
Driving without a license
From 500, criminal case

Parking Rules and How to Avoid Fines

Car rental in Georgia Tbilisi Batumi Kutaisi
Parking in Tbilisi & Batumi


  • Marked with a “P” sign or white lines
  • Payment via Tbilisi Parking app, terminals, or SMS
  • Rates: 1–3 GEL per hour
  • Daily pass: 5–10 GEL


Illegally parked cars are towed

Is It Worth Renting a Car in Georgia?


Driving in Georgia is less about stress and more about freedom. With proper preparation, the right vehicle, and attentiveness behind the wheel, you'll not only reach truly unique places — you’ll genuinely enjoy the ride.
These tips are useful for both independent travelers and those using car rentals from major companies or local services.
Ready to hit the road? Browse our listings — car rentals in Tbilisi, Batumi, and other cities are available online.


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