Driving in Ireland:

Before you pick up your car hire in Ireland, it is worth noting some of the rules and regulations about driving in Ireland.

Driving license requirements in Ireland:

The Irish authorities do not recognise drivers licenses in languages that do not use Roman letters and numbers. Holders of these licenses must also show an International driving permit in English (available through motoring organisations such as AAA, AA, RAC etc)

All other driving licenses are acceptable. The Irish authorities require that you carry your drivers license with you at all times.

Age requirements for driving in Ireland:

Car hire companies in Ireland employ age restrictions, which can vary across companies. Please check your quotation for exact restrictions, as there may be an extra fee for drivers below the minimum age or over the maximum age.

Speed Limits on Irish roads:

Tips for driving your hire car in Ireland: 

• Drive on the left hand side of the road.
• Overtake on the right
• Check with car rental staff for local driving regulations.
• Seatbelts must be worn at all times (front and back seats)
• Children under 12 must not sit in front seats - except for infants or young children in baby or booster seats
• Do not drink and drive. If caught with a Blood / Alcohol level exceeding 80mg, you may face a fine and/or imprisonment.
• Do not speed. Many Irish country roads are dangerously narrow and speed cameras are in operation.
• Keep your driving license with you at all times.
• Keep any paperwork relating to the vehicle you are driving with you at all times.
• Use of warning triangles is recommended

Fuel types available in Ireland:

• Unleaded Super 95/98 Petroleum (gasoline)
• Diesel
• LPG
• Check carefully before filling whether your rental car uses petrol or diesel. If you make a mistake do not start the vehicle as severe damage may result and you will be liable for repair costs. Inform service station staff who will assist in arranging for the tank to be drained and refilled with the correct fuel
• Service stations are generally open 07.30 - 20.00hrs. Times vary particularly in rural areas. There are 24/7 service stations in most major cities. Service stations are generally self-service
• Most credit cards are accepted for fuel payment. Switch / debit cards may not be accepted - check before filling car

Parking in Ireland:

• Parking restrictions are shown on roadside signs
• Do not park where there are yellow lines on roadside
• Parking metres and disc systems are in use. Maximum time is usually 2 hours
• Clamping and on-the-spot fines are common in major cities
• Severe penalties may be incurred for dangerous parking