The Land Transport Agency announced that January 1, 2026, has been established as the mandatory date for the exclusive use of buses for passenger transportation between major cities and routes exceeding 150 kilometres.
According to the agency, starting from this date, passenger services between large urban centres and relevant settlements in Georgia located over 150 kilometres apart will be permitted only using vehicles classified as category M3, with the appropriate specifications and seating capacity.
“The decision was made following a comprehensive analysis of sector developments and aims to give carriers additional time to upgrade their fleets and acquire new vehicles of the designated class,” the agency explained.
As part of the reforms within Georgia’s road passenger sector, operators engaged in regular domestic and international passenger transportation across the country will gradually be required to obtain licenses starting in 2024. As of June 2, 2025, more than 2,400 carriers had already secured permits, and the number of applicants continues to grow.
The Land Transport Agency emphasized that, in line with these reforms, it continues to cooperate closely with stakeholders involved in road passenger transportation. The primary goal remains to protect the interests of carriers and bus stations while ensuring the safe and comfortable movement of passengers,” the agency stated.
