Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is required. Visitors from non-European Union countries may need an International Driving Permit (IDP), especially if their license is not in English.
Age Requirement: Most rental companies in Ireland require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a valid license for at least one to two years. Drivers under 25 may face additional young driver surcharges, and some companies may set the minimum age at 25 for certain vehicle types.
Credit Card: A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for security deposits and additional charges. Debit cards may not be accepted by all companies.
Passport or ID: A valid passport or national ID is needed to confirm your identity. Ensure the name matches what is on your driver’s license and credit card.
Car Size: Consider the type of trip you’re planning when selecting your car. Compact cars are great for narrow Irish roads, especially in rural areas. If you're traveling with a group or have luggage, consider a mid-size or SUV for extra comfort.
Transmission Type: Manual transmission cars are more common in Ireland, so if you prefer an automatic, book in advance as they may be limited and more expensive.
Fuel Policy: Most rental companies offer a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you return the car with a full tank. This is usually the most economical. A full-to-empty policy can be more costly as you pay upfront for fuel.
Insurance Options: Basic insurance typically covers third-party liability (damage to others), collision damage waiver (CDW) (damage to the rental car), and theft protection. You may want to consider Super CDW or zero excess insurance to reduce your liability.
Season: Rental prices in Ireland fluctuate depending on the season. Prices are higher in the summer (June to August) and during holidays, with lower rates available during the off-peak months (November to March).
Location: Renting a car at airports, such as Dublin or Shannon, tends to be more expensive, but offers more vehicle options. City locations may be cheaper but could have a more limited selection.
Car Type: The cost depends on the type of car you choose. Economy cars typically range from €25–€60 per day, mid-size cars from €50–€90 per day, and SUVs or luxury vehicles can cost €100–€180 per day.
Rental Duration: Longer rental periods often come with lower daily rates. Weekly or monthly rentals tend to offer better discounts.
Speed Limits: Speed limits in Ireland are posted in kilometers per hour (km/h). Typically, they are 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on motorways. Always follow posted signs.
Traffic Rules: In Ireland, vehicles drive on the left side of the road. Seat belts are mandatory, and the use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited unless using a hands-free system. Ireland has strict drink-driving laws, with a legal limit of 0.05% blood alcohol content.
Parking: Pay attention to local parking signs. In cities, parking can be metered, and there are pay-and-display zones. Be aware of areas with no-parking signs or where parking is reserved for residents.
Toll Roads: Some motorways in Ireland, such as the M50 around Dublin, require toll payments. Payments can be made via cash or card at toll plazas, and the M50 toll can be paid online through a barrier-free system.
Roundabouts: Drivers in the roundabout have the right of way. Yield to traffic already in the roundabout and signal when exiting.
Dublin: Dublin is a popular starting point for road trips around Ireland. Car rentals are available at Dublin Airport (DUB) and various locations in the city.
Shannon: Car rentals are available at Shannon Airport (SNN), which is convenient for exploring the west coast and regions such as the Cliffs of Moher and Galway.
Cork: Cork Airport (ORK) offers car rental options for travelers looking to explore the scenic south of Ireland, including Blarney Castle and the Wild Atlantic Way.
Galway: Galway is a great base for exploring the west coast. Car rentals are available in the city, ideal for trips to Connemara, the Aran Islands, and beyond.
Belfast: Although part of Northern Ireland (UK), car rentals are available at Belfast International Airport (BFS) and in the city. Note that crossing the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland may require additional insurance.
Cross-Border Travel: If you plan to drive into Northern Ireland or other parts of the UK, inform the rental company. Additional insurance or fees may apply.
Roadside Assistance: Most rental companies offer 24-hour roadside assistance, which is useful in case of emergencies. Ensure it’s included in your rental agreement.
Navigation: Consider renting a GPS or using a smartphone navigation app. Make sure your phone plan covers data usage in Ireland, or purchase a local SIM card to avoid roaming charges.
Child Safety Seats: Irish law requires child safety seats for children under 150 cm (4 feet 11 inches) in height or under 36 kg (79 pounds) in weight. If traveling with children, request a child seat when booking your car rental.
