Azerbaijan.US
Azerbaijani long-haul truck drivers transiting through Georgia have raised concerns over large fines imposed during roadside inspections, saying enforcement practices have become stricter in recent months.
Drivers report that грузовые vehicles passing through Georgian territory are frequently stopped for technical inspections conducted directly on the roadside. When violations are identified, fines can reach up to 5,000 Georgian lari, equivalent to roughly $1,800.
According to drivers, one of the main points of contention involves penalties related to violations of mandatory work and rest periods. They argue that along key transit routes there is a shortage of designated parking and rest areas, making it difficult to comply fully with legal rest requirements.
The issue has triggered growing frustration among drivers engaged in international cargo transport, particularly those using Georgia as a transit corridor.
In response to media inquiries, Georgia’s Land Transport Agency stated that the inspections are carried out in accordance with a government decision adopted on January 22, 2025. The agency said inspections include checks of drivers’ work and rest schedules, electronic tachograph data, the technical condition of vehicles, documentation for international freight transport, and the proper functioning of tachographs and speed-limiting devices.
Authorities stressed that no leniency is предусмотрено during initial inspections. Penalties are issued based on the severity of the violation: 500 lari for first-level offenses, 1,000 lari for second-level offenses, and up to 5,000 lari for third-level violations.
The agency also noted that drivers who disagree with imposed fines have the right to file an appeal through Georgia’s Land Transport Agency in accordance with legal procedures.
