For a garage that can get wet, the safest choice is usually a GFCI-protected receptacle that is also rated for the environment where it is installed. The first thing to decide is whether the outlet is in a location that is considered damp or wet. If the receptacle is on a wall where it may get splashed, exposed to condensation, or subject to garage humidity, a weather-resistant receptacle with a proper in-use cover is often the better option than a standard indoor device. If the area is truly likely to get direct water exposure, the cover matters just as much as the GFCI function.
A lot of people mix up the GFCI protection itself with the physical receptacle rating. GFCI protects against ground faults by cutting power fast when current leaks in an unsafe way. That protection can be provided by the receptacle, by a GFCI breaker in the panel, or by an upstream GFCI feeding downstream outlets. But if moisture is part of the problem, you also want the actual device, box, and cover to be appropriate for the location. A weather-resistant receptacle is designed to hold up better in moist conditions, and an extra-duty in-use cover helps protect the plug connection even while something is connected.
In a garage, I would also think about how the outlet will be used. If you plan to plug in power tools, a battery charger, a freezer, or a pressure washer, it is worth choosing a high-quality GFCI from a known brand and making sure the circuit is sized correctly. Most general receptacle circuits are 15 or 20 amps, and the device has to match the circuit and wiring. For example, a 20-amp circuit can use a 20-amp receptacle or a 15-amp receptacle if there is more than one outlet on the circuit, but the wiring and breaker still need to be correct.
Another common issue is nuisance tripping. Garages often have motors, moisture, and tools that can cause a GFCI to trip more often than people expect. That does not mean the device is bad. It usually means the circuit has leakage, moisture intrusion, or equipment that is not friendly to GFCI protection. If the garage has a refrigerator or freezer, you may want to think carefully about that load because a trip can spoil food. In that case, some people prefer a dedicated circuit and a very reliable GFCI setup, sometimes with the panel protecting only the garage outlets.
One more thing: if the outlet is near a sink, wash area, or exterior door where water can splash directly, use a cover that stays protected even with a cord plugged in. That is where many installations fall short. A weather-resistant GFCI under an in-use cover is usually the practical answer for a wet garage, but the exact setup should match your local code and the way the space is actually used. If you want, a licensed electrician can check the circuit, box depth, grounding, and bonding before you buy parts.
