Radar detectors are legal for use in private (non-commercial) vehicles in Georgia. However, they are illegal in commercial vehicles. There are a few important details and exceptions you should know before using one.
Radar Detector Laws in Georgia
Private Vehicles
- Legal to Use: You can legally possess and use a radar detector in any privately owned passenger vehicle in Georgia.
- No Restrictions on Mounting: Georgia law does not specifically restrict where you can mount a radar detector in your car, unlike some states that prohibit windshield mounting.
Commercial Vehicles
- Illegal in Commercial Vehicles: Federal and state law prohibit the use or possession of radar detectors in any commercial motor vehicle (CMV) with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more, or vehicles designed to carry more than 8 passengers for compensation, or 15 passengers not for compensation, or vehicles transporting hazardous materials.
- Penalties: Both the driver and the carrier can face civil and/or criminal penalties for violations.
Military Bases
-
Prohibited: Radar detectors are illegal on all U.S. military bases, regardless of the state.
Georgia Speed Detection Device Laws
- Enforcement: Georgia law enforcement agencies use radar and laser speed detection devices. These devices must be tested for accuracy at the beginning and end of each shift, and drivers have the right to request a calibration check if cited for speeding.
- Automated Enforcement: Recent legislative changes affect automated speed enforcement in school zones, but these do not impact the legality of radar detectors for drivers.
Table: Radar Detector Legality in Georgia
| Vehicle Type | Radar Detector Legal? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Private Passenger | Yes | No mounting restrictions |
| Commercial (>10,001 lbs) | No | Illegal under state and federal law |
| Military Base | No | Prohibited on all bases |
What to Know Before Using a Radar Detector
- Stay Informed: Laws can change, and local ordinances may impose additional restrictions.
- Commercial Drivers: Never use a radar detector in a commercial vehicle in Georgia.
- Be Aware of Enforcement: Law enforcement in Georgia actively uses radar and laser speed detection, and you have legal rights regarding device calibration if you are cited for speeding.
Radar detectors are legal for private vehicles in Georgia, but strictly prohibited in commercial vehicles and on military bases. Always check local and federal laws before using a radar detector to avoid fines or legal issues.
Sources:
- https://www.automoblog.com/are-radar-detectors-legal/
- https://mokaraminjurylawyers.com/blogs/are-radar-detectors-legal/
- https://dps.georgia.gov/document/publication/attention-commercial-vehicle-drivers-radar-detectors/download
- https://law.justia.com/codes/georgia/title-40/chapter-14/article-2/section-40-14-5/