The question of whether it is possible to drive cars with Georgian license plates in Russia worries many drivers. On the one hand, international agreements allow the temporary use of foreign vehicles. On the other hand, political nuances and changes in legislation create uncertainty. In this article, we will figure out whether it is legal to drive a car with Georgian registration in the Russian Federation, what fines may be imposed, and how to avoid problems with the traffic police.
Legal basis: what do the laws say?
Vienna Convention of 1968
According to the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, participants (including Russia and Georgia) recognize foreign license plates of other participating countries. This means that short-term use of a car with Georgian license plates in the territory of the Russian Federation is legal. However, there are conditions:
The driver must have an international driving permit (if the national license does not meet the requirements of the convention).
The period of stay of the car in Russia is no more than 6 months per year. After this, it is necessary to register in the Russian Federation or travel abroad.
Features of Russian legislation
In 2023, Russia tightened control over foreign vehicles. For example:
If the owner of a car with Georgian license plates is a citizen of the Russian Federation, traffic police officers may require re-registration of the car within 10 days.
When crossing the border, it is necessary to have an OSAGO policy valid in Russia.
Is it possible to drive with Georgian license plates in Russia?
Theoretically, yes, if the terms of the Vienna Convention are met. But in practice, drivers face problems:
Political tension. After the severance of diplomatic relations in 2008, Georgia left the CIS, which complicated the mutual recognition of documents.
Traffic police checks. Cars with Georgian license plates are often stopped to check insurance and length of stay in the country.
Example: In 2022, a resident of Krasnodar bought a car in Tbilisi, but when he tried to enter the Russian Federation, he was denied due to the lack of Russian MTPL. He had to issue a policy through international insurers.
Fines for driving with Georgian license plates: what are the consequences for drivers?
1. Lack of Russian MTPL
Fine amount: 800 rubles. (Article 12.37 of the Code of Administrative Offenses).
Nuance: Georgian Green Card policies are not valid in Russia. You need to buy Russian MTPL insurance through accredited companies.
2. Expired period of stay
If the car is in the Russian Federation for more than 6 months:
Fine: 200-500 rubles (Article 19.22 of the Code of Administrative Offenses).
Additionally: the vehicle may be banned from operation until the violation is corrected.
3. Violation of customs clearance rules
If the car was imported without paying duties:
Fine: up to 200 thousand rubles (Article 16.22 of the Code of Administrative Offenses).
Confiscation of the car: in case of tax evasion.
How to avoid problems? Tips for drivers
Obtain Russian MTPL insurance. This can be done through companies working with foreign vehicles (for example, Ingosstrakh).
Keep an eye on the deadlines. If you plan to stay in the Russian Federation for more than 6 months, register the car.
Take the documents to customs. When entering, make sure you have:
Purchase and sale agreement.
Georgian registration certificate.
Receipts for payment of customs duties (if required).
Important: Russian citizens driving cars with foreign license plates may be fined for “failure to register a vehicle” (up to 5,000 rubles).
Frequently asked questions
Can a car with Georgian license plates be confiscated?
Yes, if:
There are no import documents.
The owner is a citizen of the Russian Federation, but did not re-register the vehicle within the established period.
How do I pay a fine if I am a citizen of Georgia?
Fines can be paid through Russian banks, online services (Sberbank Online) or at traffic police departments.
Do I need to change the license plates when renting a car in Georgia?
No. Rented cars can be used in Russia if the period of stay does not exceed 6 months and there is an MTPL policy.
You can drive with Georgian license plates in Russia, but only if you comply with all legal regulations: take out insurance, take into account the length of stay and customs regulations. The main risks are not associated with the license plates, but with violations of the law. To avoid fines and car detention, prepare documents in advance and monitor changes in the laws. Remember: even if you are right, traffic police officers may interpret the situation in their own way — be prepared to defend your position in court.