Insurance is the question every renter asks — and the one most rental companies answer badly. You land at Tbilisi or Kutaisi airport, you're handed a contract, and somewhere on page two there's a line about liability and excess that nobody explains.
This guide cuts through it. We'll tell you exactly what's included in a standard rental in Georgia, what full coverage actually means, and whether you need to pay extra for it.
Short answer: for most travellers, third-party insurance is enough. Here's why — and when to upgrade.
Georgian rental companies offer two levels of coverage. Understanding the difference takes two minutes — and could save you a lot of money if something goes wrong.
This covers damage or injury caused to other people, other vehicles, or property in an accident where you are at fault. It is mandatory by Georgian law and included in the base price at StarCar — you pay nothing extra for it.
Covers: damage to another car, medical costs for a third party, property damage.
Does not cover: damage to your own rental vehicle.
Full coverage — also called CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) — protects the rental car itself if it is damaged, regardless of fault. The price depends on the car category, model, and number of rental days.
To add it, discuss with the operator via WhatsApp when booking. It is confirmed in your contract before pickup.
| Third-Party (Included) | Full Coverage (Add-on) | |
|---|---|---|
| Damage to another car | Covered | Covered |
| Injury to third party | Covered | Covered |
| Damage to rental car | Not covered | Covered |
| Theft of rental car | Not covered | Covered |
| Security deposit | No deposit | No deposit |
| Extra cost | Included in base price | Ask operator for quote |
No — Georgian insurance only covers Georgia. If you cross into Armenia or Azerbaijan, the Georgian policy does not apply.
StarCar issues a separate cross-border permit (letter of authorisation) for Armenia and Azerbaijan — this is a legal permission to drive across the border, not additional insurance. Keep this in mind before booking a multi-country itinerary.
Cross-border permits are not available for Russia or Turkey.
Planning a Georgia + Armenia trip? Request the cross-border permit at least 1 week before pickup. Contact the operator via WhatsApp — confirmation usually takes 24–48 hours.
Honestly — it depends on how you plan to drive.
You probably don't need it if:
Full coverage is worth considering if:
One thing worth checking: many travel insurance policies and credit cards include rental car damage cover. Before paying for CDW, verify your existing coverage — you may already be protected.
Most foreign licences are valid in Georgia, as long as the licence includes an English-language section. If yours is in a non-Latin script only (Arabic, Chinese, etc.), you need a certified English translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP).
| Licence Type | Valid in Georgia? | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| EU / UK licence | Yes | None |
| US / Canadian licence | Yes | None |
| Licence with English section | Yes | None |
| Licence — no English section | Needs supplement | Certified EN translation or IDP |
| International Driving Permit | Yes | Carry alongside national licence |
Yes. StarCar does not limit the number of drivers on a single rental. However, the person who signs the contract is legally responsible for the vehicle throughout the rental. There is no additional fee for extra drivers.
StarCar operates a full-to-full fuel policy. The fuel level is recorded in the contract at pickup — you return the car at the same level. Petrol stations are widely available across Georgia, including on routes to mountain destinations.
Most rental companies — including Hertz, Sixt, Europcar, and OTA platforms like Rentalcars.com — block €200–500 on your credit card as a deposit. That money is unavailable to you for the entire rental period.
StarCar does not require a security deposit. Your card is never blocked.
This is one of the main reasons travellers book directly with us rather than through an aggregator. Browse the full fleet and book direct at starcar.ge/cars — or go straight to car rental in Tbilisi or car rental in Kutaisi.
Is insurance included in the car rental price in Georgia?
Third-party liability insurance is included in every StarCar rental as standard — it is part of the base price and required by Georgian law. Full coverage (CDW) is an optional add-on confirmed when booking.
Do I need to pay a deposit when renting a car in Georgia?
Not with StarCar. We do not block any amount on your card. Most other companies — especially international brands and OTA bookings — hold €200–500 as a security deposit. We do not.
Can I drive a rental car from Georgia to Armenia?
Yes, with a cross-border permit issued by StarCar. Request it at least one week before rental. Note that Georgian insurance does not cover Armenia — plan accordingly. Crossings to Russia and Turkey are not permitted.
Does full coverage insurance cover all road types in Georgia?
Standard CDW covers paved and light gravel roads. Extreme off-road routes — the Abano Pass to Omalo, Ushguli in winter, Vashlovani National Park — are outside standard coverage. Always consult the operator before driving these routes.
Do I need an International Driving Permit for Georgia?
Only if your licence has no English section. Most EU, UK, US, and Australian licences are accepted as-is. If your licence is in a non-Latin script only, bring a certified English translation or an IDP.
StarCar offers direct booking with no security deposit, no young driver surcharge for drivers aged 20 and over, and unlimited mileage across Georgia. Airport pickup is available at Tbilisi, Kutaisi (20 minutes from the office), and Batumi — book at least 24 hours in advance.
Book now at starcar.ge — or message us on WhatsApp 24/7.
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