Driving License & Car Registration for Expats in Georgia

For anyone relocating to Georgia long-term — whether they've bought property or not — the question of a driving license and a car comes up fairly quickly.

Foreign licenses

Foreign driving licenses (including international ones) are usually valid in Georgia for one year from entry. After that, permanent residents need a Georgian license — many countries have an exchange agreement that skips a full exam, others require both theory and practical tests.

Registering a car

Importing a personal car into Georgia is subject to customs duties (excise depends on age and engine size, plus VAT). Many expats instead buy locally — the used-car market is large, and registration at the Patrol Police takes a single visit.

Practical tip

Before buying a car, check its history on the police website (fines, liens, accident record) — it's free and takes a couple of minutes.