Understanding Georgia Traffic Fines

Understanding Georgia Traffic Fines: Payment, Penalties

Georgia’s traffic laws are designed to keep everyone safe - locals and visitors alike. As a tourist or expat driving in Georgia, it’s important to familiarize yourself with how traffic fines and penalties work. In this guide, we’ll break down the general rules, common fines (especially for speeding), how to pay for fines, and what happens if you don’t pay on time. We’ve also included some tips so you can drive with peace of mind. 

Key Takeaways

At our car rental service in Georgia, we want you to enjoy a smooth, safe journey. Understanding the local traffic rules and fines will help you avoid trouble and focus on the road ahead. Let’s dive into what you need to know. Want to know more about driving in Georgia in general? Check out our article on that.

Guide to Driving in Georgia – 2025 Tourist Road Trip Guide

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Speeding in Georgia: Fines and Penalties

Speeding is by far the most common traffic violation in Georgia. Speed limits are clearly posted in most areas, and it’s crucial to stick to them not just for safety but to avoid fines. The standard speed limits in Georgia are:

• Urban areas (cities and towns): 60 km/h.
• Residential streets or areas with heavy pedestrian activity: 30 km/h
• Rural roads outside cities: 90 km/h
• Highways (motorways): 110 km/h

Always keep an eye on the signs, as occasionally a different speed limit may be posted (for example, near schools or in construction zones, it could be lower). Georgia does not have any toll roads, so you won’t need to slow for toll booths, but you will encounter speed cameras on highways and in cities (especially in Tbilisi).

How expensive can a speeding ticket be? That depends on how much you exceed the limit:

• If you exceed the speed limit by a moderate amount (from 15 to 40 km/h over the limit), the fine is 50 GEL. This would apply, for example, if you drive at 90 km/h in a 60 zone - expect a 50 GEL fine.
• If you exceed the limit by a larger margin (going more than 40 km/h over the limit), the fine jumps much higher - 300 GEL for a serious speeding violation. For instance, doing 120+ km/h in a 60 zone or 150 km/h on a 110 highway could land you a 300 GEL fine.

These figures can vary if other circumstances apply (like repeat offenses or if the police consider it reckless driving), but they give a general idea.

Enforcement is done by both traffic police and automatic speed cameras. Major roads and highways have camera systems that will snap a photo of your license plate if you speed. There are also many so-called point-to-point cameras which measure your speed on a given road section (from 300m to 5km). If a camera catches you speeding, you won’t be pulled over on the spot - instead, as mentioned, a ticket is generated in the system and sent to the owner’s phone via SMS. If you’re driving a rental, the rental company gets that notification. All fines that were issued by cameras are subject to a 7 days grace period with a 20% discount on them.

• Traveler Tip: If you suspect you might have triggered a speed camera (for example, you see a flash or you notice a camera sign after the fact), you can check online for any new fines (more on that below in the payment section).
• Don’t wait until you’ve left the country. If you incur a speeding fine while using a rental car, it’s best to inform the rental agency and settle it before leaving Georgia. Many rental companies, including ours, can assist with checking and paying fines to make sure everything is clear before you depart.

Also, be aware that Georgian police do sometimes conduct speed traps using radar guns in patrol cars (often unmarked cars). If you’re flagged for speeding by an officer, they will pull you over and issue a ticket on the spot. In such cases, remain calm and polite. The officer will usually explain the violation and record your information. They will not ask you to pay them directly in cash - the fine must be paid through the official methods later, not to the officer. You’ll get a paper or electronic record of the citation.

In summary, “Georgia speeding” fines can hit your wallet hard if you’re not careful. Stick to the posted limits, use a navigation app that alerts you to speed cameras (Waze) if possible, and remember that a moment of hurry isn’t worth a hefty penalty.

Other Common Traffic Violations and Fines

Driving in a new country means adjusting to local rules. Here are other frequent traffic violations in Georgia that tourists and expats should be mindful of, and what penalties to expect for each:

• Seat Belts & Pedestrian Right-of-Way: Drivers and front-seat passengers must wear seat belts at all times. Failing to buckle up will cost you 40 GEL. Similarly, not yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks can result in a 40 GEL fine. Always stop for people at zebra crossings - some intersections have cameras, and you could be fined later if you roll through when someone is waiting to cross.
• Mobile Phone Use: It’s illegal to hold or use a hand-held phone while driving. That means no texting, and even talking is only allowed if you’re using a hands-free device (like Bluetooth or speakerphone). The fine for driving while using a phone is 30 GEL. It may not sound high, but it’s easily avoidable - just use CarPlay or Android Auto. In most of our cars we have it, so you could easily use your favourite navigation app.
• Traffic Lights and Road Signs: Running a red light ignoring a “No Entry” sign, making an illegal turn or crossing a solid line can each lead to a fine of 100 GEL. These violations are often caught on camera. For example, if you drive through a red light late at night when you think no one’s around, don’t be surprised to receive a 100 GEL ticket later. Always respect traffic signals and posted signs (one common tourist mistake is missing a “no left turn” sign - which cameras or police will notice).
• Driving in Bus Lanes: In cities like Tbilisi and Batumi, certain lanes are reserved for public transport (buses, minibuses, taxis). They are usually marked with road paint and signs. If you drive or park in a dedicated bus lane as a private driver, you can be fined 100 GEL. The same goes for parking at bus stops or taxi stands - it’s prohibited and fines are hefty. Stay out of the bus lanes; if you need to turn and a bus lane is on the right, merge only at designated broken-line sections. Be careful, one bus lane could have many cameras one after another, and you will need to pay all fines.
• Littering: Throwing garbage out of your car - whether it’s a cigarette butt, gum wrapper, or any trash - is illegal. If caught the fine is 120 GEL. It’s a steep price for a careless act, so hold on to your trash until you find a bin. Keeping Georgia clean is taken seriously, and it’s also just the right thing to do.
• Driving without a license: Driving without a valid driver’s license - or letting someone drive your car without the legal right to do so (no license, expired/suspended license, or the wrong category) - is a serious violation. If stopped, the fine is 500 GEL. The same 500 GEL penalty applies if you hand your vehicle to someone who isn’t legally permitted to drive. Always carry your physical license when you’re behind the wheel, and if you’re visiting, keep your valid home-country license on you (an International Driving Permit is recommended). Police checkpoints are common and officers can ask for your license at any time, so double-check documents before driving or lending your car.
• Drunk Driving (DUI): Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly forbidden in Georgia, as in most countries. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.3‰ (0.03%), which is roughly the amount in a single glass of wine or one beer for an average adult. In practice, this is a very low tolerance - effectively, you should not drink at all if you plan to drive. The penalties for DUI are severe: a fine ranging from 700 GEL up to 2,500 GEL (depending on the level of intoxication and whether it’s a repeat offense), and you will likely have your driver’s license suspended for up to 6 months. In some cases, especially if an accident is caused, the suspension can be longer and even jail time is possible. Georgia is very strict about drunk driving, so it’s simply not worth the risk. Use a taxi or have a designated driver if you’re enjoying Georgia’s famous wine or chacha. In 2025 police started to check for drugs if they assume that you could be intoxicated, so be aware that some of them could leave traces in your body for up to a month.

These are just some common examples. Other laws to keep in mind: always drive with your headlights on at night and in tunnels, ensure your vehicle is registered, and carry your documents whenever you’re driving. Also, children under 12 must ride in the back seat (and young children (up to 3 years old) in baby seats) - failing to follow child safety rules can lead to 40 GEL fines as well.

Staying aware of these regulations will help you avoid most trouble. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and follow the example of law-abiding local drivers (not the few aggressive ones!). Georgia’s traffic enforcement has improved a lot over the years, and as a visitor you’ll notice police presence and cameras especially in urban areas.

How to Pay Traffic Fines in Georgia

If you do receive a traffic fine, paying it is relatively easy - Georgia has made the process quite convenient, even if you’re just visiting. Here are the ways you can pay a traffic fine:

• Payment Terminals: Georgia has many self-service payment kiosks (for example, bank terminals or kiosks by companies like TBC Pay or BOG Pay). These machines often have an English or Russian menu option. You can pay in cash or by card. Simply navigate to the “Fines” or “Traffic fine” section, enter the required details (usually the citation number from your ticket and the vehicle’s license plate number), and follow the prompts to pay. The machine will print a receipt. Payment terminals are commonly found in supermarkets, malls, gas stations, and on busy streets.
• Online via the Ministry of Internal Affairs website: The Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) of Georgia has an online system for checking and paying fines. You can go to a dedicated fines portal videos.police.ge and input your citation number and vehicle details. The system will show any outstanding fines and allow you to pay securely by credit/debit card. This is handy to use before you travel or if you prefer an English interface.
• At a Bank Branch: If you prefer to deal with a human or if you’re having trouble with the language on a machine, you can walk into any bank in Georgia to pay your fine. Bank of Georgia and TBC Bank are two major banks; just go to the teller and tell them you need to pay a traffic fine. You should bring your passport and the traffic ticket or at least the fine number. The teller will process the payment and give you a stamped receipt. This option is useful if you want confirmation and assistance. Keep in mind banks have business hours (usually weekdays and Saturday mornings).

No matter which method you choose, make sure to keep the receipt or confirmation of your payment. If there’s ever a question about whether you paid, that receipt is your proof. This is especially important if you plan to leave the country soon.

If you’re unsure whether you have a fine, you have a couple of options:

• Check online on the police websites as mentioned above - you can search by your name and ID or by the car’s license plate to see if any fines are listed.
• Ask your car rental agency for help. Many car rental services (including us) will assist customers in checking for any fines incurred during the rental period. When you return the car, the company can look up the vehicle plate or your details to see if there are outstanding fines. This is a helpful service to use, because it’s in both your and the rental company’s interest to clear fines promptly. In fact, some companies automatically check and will inform you or deduct the fine from your deposit. Don’t hesitate to utilize this assistance - it can save you hassle down the road.

Finally, be aware that payments should be made in Georgia (through one of the above methods). If you receive a fine near the end of your trip and you’re flying out, you can still pay online from abroad if needed (as long as you have the citation information). The Georgian systems accept foreign credit cards. However, do not simply ignore a fine because you’re leaving - as we’ll explain next, that can come back to haunt you.

Penalties for Unpaid Fines

What happens if you get a fine and decide not to pay it or just forget about it? In short: the problem will only get worse. Georgia has a system in place to penalize non-payment of fines, and it can especially impact you as a returning visitor. Here’s what to expect if a fine goes unpaid:

• Increased Fines: After the initial 30-day payment period has passed, the fine amount doubles as a late penalty. For example, a 50 GEL fine becomes 100 GEL. If more time passes, the fine can increase further - some fines might triple after 60 days or add additional surcharges. The longer you delay, the more expensive it gets. Georgia does not forget about the fine; it will remain in the system.
• Collections and Legal Action: Unpaid fines can be forwarded to the courts or collections agencies for enforcement. This means the issue could escalate to a legal matter. For residents, it might result in a court summons. For visitors, it could mean the fine is noted in immigration systems. While a court is unlikely to chase a short-term tourist for a small speeding ticket, the record will be there if you ever interact with Georgian authorities again.
• Vehicle Impoundment: For serious or multiple unpaid fines, the police have the authority to impound (tow) your vehicle. This often happens if a car has numerous outstanding fines or the owner has been properly notified and still ignored payment. If a rental car was impounded due to your unpaid fines, you would be liable for all towing and storage fees on top of the fines - not to mention the very unpleasant experience of having the car seized. Towing fees in Georgia start around 100 GEL for the tow plus daily storage fees. Avoid this at all costs by paying fines promptly.
• Issues at the Border: One of the most important things for foreign drivers to know is that unpaid fines can stop you from leaving the country. Georgian border control officers do check for outstanding traffic fines, especially for foreign-registered vehicles, but also for individuals. There have been cases where travelers were stopped at the airport or land border and asked to first settle their fines before being allowed to depart. This isn’t guaranteed to happen for every fine, but the risk increases with the amount of the fine or the length of delinquency. The last thing you want is to miss a flight because of an unpaid ticket.
• Future Travel Consequences: If you leave Georgia without paying a fine, that fine remains on record. When you come back to Georgia next time, immigration or police can see it. You may be required to pay it on the spot, and there could be additional penalties or interest. In some cases, authorities might deny entry for egregious cases (though a single small speeding fine likely wouldn’t ban you, it would certainly be expected to be paid). Additionally, if you ever seek a Georgian driver’s license or any official permit, you’ll need to clear all fines first.

In summary, it’s not worth ignoring a traffic fine in Georgia. The system is quite efficient at tracking and penalizing non-payment. If you handle the fine within 30 days, it’s straightforward - you pay the amount and that’s the end of it. If you don’t, it can balloon into a bigger expense and a bigger headache. Also don’t forget about the 7 days grace period with a 20% discount on the automatic fine.

Always take care of any fines before you finish your trip. If you’re short on time or unsure how to pay, reach out for help - your hotel, your local friends, or our car rental staff can assist or point you in the right direction. Georgia wants you to pay your fines, not to punish you unduly, so they do provide convenient avenues to do so.

Final Thoughts: Drive Safe and Enjoy Georgia

Driving in Georgia offers you the freedom to explore this beautiful country at your own pace - from the Caucasus mountain roads to the coastal highways by the Black Sea. By understanding the traffic fines, penalties, and rules, you’re not only saving yourself money, but also contributing to safer roads for everyone.

To recap, always follow the general rules: stick to speed limits, wear your seat belt, don’t use your phone behind the wheel, and never drink and drive. These simple guidelines will keep you out of trouble in most cases. If you do get a ticket, handle it promptly using the convenient payment methods available, and you’ll have nothing to worry about.

Remember, our goal is to ensure you have a hassle-free experience on Georgia’s roads. At our car rental company, OG Drive, we’re here to support you - whether it’s providing well-maintained vehicles or advising you on local driving regulations. We want you to feel not just like a customer, but like a welcomed guest on our roads.

Georgia is a very welcoming country to foreign drivers: road signs feature Latin transliterations, fuel is affordable, and outside of big cities, traffic is often light. So take the time to enjoy the drive! By driving responsibly and being informed, you’ll make wonderful memories here rather than stories about traffic stops and fines.

Safe travels and happy driving in Georgia! Enjoy the journey, drive safely, and if you have any questions about the rules (or need any assistance at all during your rental), don’t hesitate to ask us for help. We’re always glad to help fellow travelers discover Georgia in the best way possible - through a worry-free road trip.