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Why Rent a Car in Tbilisi
Georgia offers stunning mountains, ancient monasteries, and Black Sea beaches. Public transport works in cities, but a rental car unlocks remote spots like Kazbegi or Sighnaghi. Americans appreciate the flexibility for road trips from Tbilisi International Airport (TBS).
Average Rental Prices
- Economy: from 120 GEL/day (ca. 44 USD/day)
- Compact: from 150 GEL/day (ca. 55 USD/day)
- Midsize SUV: from 220 GEL/day (ca. 81 USD/day)
- Full-size: from 300 GEL/day (ca. 110 USD/day)
Prices drop for weekly rentals. Expect a deposit of 500-1000 GEL (ca. 185-370 USD), refunded if no damage. Fuel costs about 3.50 GEL/liter (ca. 1.30 USD/liter) for petrol.
Documents Needed for US Drivers
- Valid US driver’s license
- International Driving Permit (IDP) – strongly advised, available from AAA
- Passport
- Credit card for deposit
Minimum age is 21, with surcharges under 25. Rentals allow driving in Georgia only; cross-border to Armenia or Turkey needs prior approval.
Vehicle Recommendations
Georgia’s roads mix smooth highways with mountain gravel. Opt for SUVs like Toyota RAV4 for Caucasus trips. Economy cars such as Hyundai i20 suit city driving in Tbilisi. All come with air conditioning, vital in summer heat.
Pickup Spots
- Tbilisi Airport (TBS) – most convenient for arrivals
- Downtown Tbilisi offices near Freedom Square
- Batumi Airport for Black Sea extensions
Book online 2-4 weeks ahead, especially May-September.
Insurance Options
Basic coverage includes third-party liability, mandatory in Georgia. Add CDW (collision damage waiver) for 20-40 GEL/day (ca. 7-15 USD/day) to limit liability to 500 GEL (ca. 185 USD). US credit cards may cover some, but verify Georgia validity.
Driving Rules in Georgia
- Drive on the right
- Speed limits: 50 km/h urban, 90 km/h rural, 110 km/h highways
- Seatbelts mandatory; no phone use without hands-free
- Winter tires required November-March in mountains
- Police checkpoints common – carry documents
Parking is free on streets but paid in central Tbilisi zones (2 GEL/hour, ca. 0.75 USD/hour). Tolls rare, mostly on E60 highway.
Popular Road Trips from Tbilisi
- Kazbegi: 3-hour drive north, Stepantsminda and Gergeti Trinity Church
- Sighnaghi: 2 hours east, wine region in Kakheti
- Batumi: 5-6 hours west, coastal promenade
Fill up before rural areas; stations accept cards and Georgian Lari.
Seasonal Tips
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer mild weather, fewer crowds. Summer peaks with heat up to 35°C; book early. Winter brings snow in highlands – chains may be needed.
Cost-Saving Advice
- Choose full-to-full fuel policy
- Avoid one-way fees by returning to Tbilisi
- Compare rates across providers
- Unlimited mileage standard, but confirm
Watch for fines: 20 GEL (ca. 7 USD) for speeding, paid on spot.