Georgia Facts

The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.

If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org

Points of Interest
Georgia requires that you have your headlights on whenever you are using your windshield wipers.

A license to carry a concealed firearm issued to a nonresident by another state shall be honored if such state provides a reciprocal privilege.

Georgia has a speed trap law that applies to all police agencies except State Patrol. Some of the regulations regarding Speed Measuring Device (SMD) use include: (1) cannot issue tickets for less than 10 mph over posted speed limit, (2) cannot use SMD on downhill road with more than a 7% downgrade, (3) cannot use SMD closer than 500 feet inside a changed speed limit zone (4) police vehicle using SMD must be seen by all approaching vehicles at least 500 feet or more, and (5) any municipality using SMD must have warning signs on major road at city limits or county limits stating so.

Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Absolute


Urban	30 mph
Rural	55 mph
Four-lane highways	65 mph
Interstates	70 mph

Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:


Pacing	Yes
Radar	Yes
Vascar	Yes
Photo Radar	No
Aircraft	Yes
Laser	Yes

Tickets
Tickets can be paid by mail or in person.

Trial By Declaration Allowed
No

Jury Trial Allowed


Speeding	Yes
Parking	No
Equipment	Yes
DWI	Yes

Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes

Member of Driver License Compact
Yes

When and Where to File Accident Reports
Accidents involving death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $500 must be reported immediately to the local authorities or state patrol.

Resident Insurance Requirements
Compulsory insurance law and financial responsibility law with security-type and future proof-type required after a claim.

Minimum limits: $15,000/30,000/10,000.

Regulations

Open intoxicants in the vehicle are prohibited for the vehicle operator, but permitted for passengers.
The BAC level is .08%.
Georgia has an administrative license suspension law and an implied consent law. The breathalyzer refusal penalty is a 12-month driver's license suspension.
Absent a recognized license to carry, loaded handguns may be carried in a visible manner on one's person or secured from view in a glove compartment; loaded rifles and shotguns may be carried if they are in plain view.
Studded tires are permitted.
Tire chains are not required.
Georgia has a seat belt law with primary enforcement for all front seat occupants.
Georgia has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 6 years of age. Children under age 3 must use approved car safety seats.
Georgia has a mandatory motorcycle helmet law.

General Information
Telephone: 404/624-7400
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: GSP (477)