If you are visiting Georgia from another country, or if you recently moved here, it is important that you drive legally and safely. But, navigating Georgia’s driving laws can be confusing. Keep reading to learn more about driving with an international license in Georgia and what can happen if you are pulled over while driving without a valid license.
Can you Drive in Georgia with an International License?
Yes, you can. However, you cannot be a resident of Georgia, and you must have a valid foreign driver’s license that is written in English or accompanied by an official translation. It is also important to note that if you are pulled over by a law enforcement officer the officer may ask for a passport or visa to verify the validity of your foreign driver’s license.
How Long Can You Use an International License in Georgia?
A person who is not a United States citizen, or not a Georgia resident, can use their foreign driver’s license for up to one year after arriving in the United States. However, once the individual establishes residency in Georgia, they are legally required to obtain a Georgia driver’s license within 30 days.
A person is considered a Georgia resident if they do any of the following:
- Accept employment or engage in a trade in Georgia and enroll their children in school within 10 days after they start their job; or
- Are present in Georgia for 30 or more days.
What Happens if you are Caught Driving Without a Valid License?
The penalties for driving without a valid license vary depending on several factors, which are detailed below:
| Offense | Classification | Penalty for Conviction |
|---|---|---|
| Driving on a Suspended License OR Driving Without a License – 1st Conviction in 5 Years | Misdemeanor | At least 2 days but not more than 12 months in jail; Fine of at least $500 but not more than $1,000; and Fingerprinting Required |
| Driving on a Suspended License OR Driving Without a License – 2nd or 3rd Conviction in 5 Years | High and Aggravated Misdemeanor | At least 10 days but not more than 12 months in jail; and Fine of at least $1,000 but not more than $2,500 |
| Driving on a Suspended License OR Driving Without a License – 4th or subsequent conviction in 5 Years | Felony | At least 1 year but not more than 5 years in jail; and Fine of at least $2,500 but not more than $5,000. |
Exemptions from the Law
O.C.G.A. § 40-5-20 states, in general, that a person must have a valid (and current) driver’s license in order to drive a vehicle upon any highway in the state. The driver must have the appropriate licensure for the class or type of vehicle being driven.
A conviction under this statute may be avoided if the driver’s license was expired less than 31 days and the driver produces in court a driver’s license which would have been valid on the date of the offense.
There are some exemptions from this law for non-residents, which are outlined in O.C.G.A. § 40-5-21, including:
- A non-resident who has in their possession a valid driver’s license from another country, provided that they would satisfy all requirements to receive a Georgia driver’s license and they have in their possession a valid international driving permit; or
- A non-resident on active duty with the U.S. military who has a valid license from their home state; or
- A non-resident who is enrolled in and attending school in the state if: (1) they are 16 years old, and (2) have in their possession a valid license from another state.
Have Questions? Give Me a Call.
I have decades of experience working with clients facing a variety of charges. If you have been pulled over for driving without a valid driver’s license in Georgia, give me a call today.
