Question 1

What are Georgia's non-consensual towing regulations?

Accepted Answer

Under O.C.G.A. § 44-1-13, Georgia has strict regulations governing non-consensual towing (when a vehicle is towed without the owner's consent, such as DUI arrests). Tow companies must be properly permitted, post visible signage with fee schedules, and follow specific notification procedures. These regulations protect vehicle owners from predatory towing practices.

Question 2

What is an NCT permit and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

NCT stands for Non-Consensual Towing. In Georgia, any tow company that performs non-consensual tows must have a valid NCT permit issued by the state. If your vehicle was towed by a company without a proper NCT permit, the tow may be invalid and you may have grounds to challenge fees. Always verify the tow company's permit status.

Question 3

What signage must impound lots display in Georgia?

Accepted Answer

Georgia law requires impound lots to post visible signage at the entrance displaying their fee schedule, including tow rates, daily storage fees, and any additional charges. The signage must be clearly legible and accessible. If fees are not properly posted, you may be able to challenge excessive charges.

Question 4

How long do I have to retrieve my vehicle after a DUI arrest in Georgia?

Accepted Answer

While Georgia doesn't have a mandatory 30-day impound like Arizona, you should retrieve your vehicle as soon as possible to minimize daily storage fees. Most impound lots charge $25-$50 per day. After a certain period (typically 30-60 days depending on county), the lot may begin an abandoned vehicle or lien sale process.

Question 5

How much does it cost to get a car out of impound in Georgia?

Accepted Answer

Typical costs: Initial tow fee ($125-$200), daily storage ($25-$50/day), administrative fee ($75-$150), plus any gate fees for after-hours pickup ($50-$75). For a 7-day impound, expect $400-$700 total. Costs vary by county and tow company.

Question 6

Do I need insurance to get my car out of impound in Georgia?

Accepted Answer

Requirements vary by county and tow company. While Georgia law requires insurance to drive on public roads, some impound lots may not require proof of insurance to release the vehicle. However, you'll need insurance to legally drive it away. Call ahead to confirm specific requirements.

Question 7

Can someone else pick up my impounded vehicle in Georgia?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but they'll typically need: (1) Written authorization from the registered owner, (2) Copy of owner's ID, (3) Their own valid ID, (4) Vehicle registration or title, (5) Payment for all fees. If they're a co-owner on the registration, separate authorization may not be required.

Fee Type	Typical Range
Initial Tow (Hook-up)	$125 - $200
Daily Storage Fee	$25 - $50/day
Administrative Fee	$75 - $150
Gate Fee (after hours)	$50 - $75

Georgia Vehicle Impound Laws & Recovery Guide

Non-Consensual Towing Regulations (O.C.G.A. § 44-1-13)

NCT Permit Requirements

Signage Requirements

Notification & Abandoned Vehicle Process

Initial Notification

Abandoned Vehicle Process

Typical Impound Costs in Georgia

Documents Needed to Release Your Vehicle

If You're the Registered Owner

If Someone Else Is Picking It Up

County-Specific Impound Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Need a DUI Attorney in Georgia?