Driver's Licenses for Foreigners in Georgia: Usage, Exchange and Acquisition

A foreign driver’s license is valid in Georgia for one year from the date of the last entry into the country. After this period, the driver must either exchange the license or obtain a Georgian one to continue driving legally.

Specifics to consider for different kind of Cases:

• Georgian Citizens with Foreign Licenses

If you hold dual citizenship (Georgia and the country that issued your license), you are allowed to drive and even work as a driver in Georgia until the license expires, but not more than one year from the date of entry.

• Foreigners with Residence Permits in Georgia

Even having a residence permit does not extend the validity of a foreign license. The law strictly limits the term to one year from the last border crossing, regardless of residence status.

Important: After this year, a foreigner may perform a so-called "visa run" — a short-term exit and re-entry — to restart the one-year validity. However, this solution is not always reliable and may raise questions with regulatory authorities

A foreign national may obtain a driver’s license in Georgia under the same conditions as Georgian citizens. However, as of May 27, 2025, new restrictions have come into effect:

New Eligibility Requirements:
According to Order No. 40 of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia, a foreigner may be admitted to the exams (theoretical and practical) only if one of the following conditions is met:

1. Holding a residence permit (temporary or permanent);

2.Proof of legal stay in Georgia for at least 185 calendar days within the last 12 months.

Exam Stages:

• Theoretical test (traffic rules);
• Practice test on a closed circuit;
• On-road driving test;
• Medical certificate.

Exception: Diplomats may take the exams without meeting the above requirements, provided they present an accreditation card.

Foreign drivers in Georgia have three legal options:

• Temporarily use a foreign license — up to 1 year;
• Obtain a Georgian license through exams (subject to residence or stay conditions);
• Exchange a valid foreign license for a Georgian one (with the required documents).

If you’re unsure which option to pursue or encounter difficulties with the paperwork, consult our lawyers. We assist clients at every stage: from document verification to communication with the Service Agency of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia.