Thinking about renting a car in Ireland? Here’s what you need to know first!
Here you’ll find everything you need to know before renting a car in Ireland, and also the things no one tells you.
Driving there takes some getting used to, especially if you’re not accustomed to driving on the left or navigating narrow roads and roundabouts the “Irish way.”
In this article, I share my personal experience on the road and explain what you need to know before getting behind the wheel: whether renting a car is worth it, where and how to book, what precautions to take, and the documents you’ll need.
At the end, I also include suggested routes to make the most of your trip.
So, are you ready to understand how car rentals work in Ireland, and drive with confidence?
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Is Renting a Car in Ireland Worth It?
Renting a car in Ireland is highly recommended if you plan to explore beyond Dublin.
The capital has good public transport, but in the countryside and coastal regions, options are limited.
Many famous places, like the Cliffs of Moher, Sliabh Liag, the Ring of Kerry, or the Wild Atlantic Way, are in rural areas and aren’t easy to visit without your own vehicle.
Having a car allows you to travel with flexibility, stop in small villages, and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
It’s also the most practical way to visit attractions off the beaten path, which often have no bus or train connections.
Of course, there are challenges, such as driving on narrow roads or getting used to right-hand drive, but the experience is worth it.
For trips entirely within Dublin, it may not be necessary, as traffic can be heavy and parking expensive.
However, for anyone wanting to truly explore Ireland, renting a car is almost essential.
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Where and How to Rent a Car in Ireland
The main pick-up points for car rentals are airports like Dublin, Cork, and Shannon, where international companies are well represented.
Many travelers prefer to pick up their car right upon arrival, avoiding extra transfers.
Another option is to rent from agencies in city centers, which is useful if you plan to spend a few days in Dublin before starting your road trip.
Booking online is strongly recommended, as prices can rise significantly during peak season. I usually book through DiscoverCars, and it has always worked well for me.
I also always choose full coverage, which means I don’t have to worry about anything else.
However, it’s important to compare companies, rates, and insurance options. Read the terms carefully, because the cheapest deals may not include adequate coverage.
A credit card in the driver’s name is usually required for the security deposit.
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Car Rental Companies at Ireland’s Airports
At Dublin Airport, you’ll find global brands like Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Enterprise, and Sixt, as well as more budget-friendly options like Budget or Dooley Car Rentals.
The advantage is the wide range of available vehicles, from compact cars to family-sized models. However, demand is very high, so it’s wise to book several months in advance, especially during summer.
At Cork and Shannon airports, the selection is more limited but still diverse enough to meet most needs.
Some local companies offer lower prices, but insurance coverage is usually restricted, so it’s important to read the contract carefully.
As a rule, booking in advance through DiscoverCars and picking up your car at the airport is the most convenient option, allowing you to save money and start your trip right away.
These locations also have extended service hours, making late arrivals or early departures much easier.
Car Rental Companies in City Centers
When booking your rental car online, you can choose to pick it up in a city center location if that’s more convenient for you.
In Dublin, several rental companies have offices downtown, usually near the main train stations such as Heuston and Connolly.
This option is ideal for travelers who prefer to explore the city on foot before hitting the road.
You’ll also find agencies in Galway, Cork, and Letterkenny, although there are fewer than in Dublin.
The main drawback is that opening hours are usually shorter than at airports, which can be inconvenient if you’re arriving on a late flight.
In addition, the selection of vehicles tends to be smaller, often limited to compact or family cars.
In some cases, city-center rentals are slightly more expensive, making them worthwhile mainly if you want to save a few days of rental time.
If you plan to return the car in another city, make sure to confirm in advance that the agency allows one-way rentals.
Documents required to rent a car and drive legally in Ireland
To rent a car in Ireland, you must present a valid driving licence issued in an EU country or an equivalent licence.
Drivers from outside the EU may need an International Driving Permit, which must be obtained before travelling.
In addition to the licence, a passport or national ID card is required for identification.
The main driver must have a credit card in their own name for the security deposit, this is a strict requirement for most companies.
The minimum age is usually 21, although drivers under 25 often pay an additional “young driver” fee.
Some companies also require at least one year of proven driving experience.
For certain vehicle categories, such as SUVs or luxury cars, the minimum age may increase to 27 or even 30. Therefore, it’s always important to check the specific rules of the chosen company.
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Best time to rent a car in Ireland
Rental prices vary greatly depending on the season, as during summer and special dates such as St. Patrick’s Day, demand soars and rates can double.
Booking in advance, ideally three to six months ahead, ensures better prices and model availability.
In spring and autumn, demand is lower, and traffic on tourist routes is lighter. However, in winter, despite lower prices, weather conditions can be challenging, with frequent rain and strong coastal winds.
So, if travelling during this season, extra caution while driving is recommended.
Things to watch out for when renting a car in Ireland
One of the most important things is to check what type of insurance is included in the rental agreement.
Many basic rates only offer minimal coverage, leaving the driver responsible for high costs in case of an accident.
Opting for “full coverage” or a similar plan can be a smart move to avoid worries about extra charges. Another good practice is to photograph the car before leaving the rental office, documenting any existing scratches or dents.
It’s also worth confirming the fuel type, as diesel cars are still common. If you’re adding extra drivers, check the fee, it can significantly increase the total cost, sometimes even doubling it.
Lastly, review the mileage policy: while most companies offer unlimited mileage, some still impose daily limits. Reading all terms carefully helps prevent unpleasant surprises when returning the car.
Main driving rules in Ireland
Driving in Ireland takes some getting used to, as traffic keeps to the left and the steering wheel is on the right-hand side.
From my experience, it can feel strange during the first few kilometers, but confidence builds up quickly. I’d say the first two hours are the most challenging, after that, it becomes much easier.
Secondary roads are often narrow, so extra caution is needed on bends and when passing other vehicles.
Speed limits are shown in kilometers per hour (unlike in the UK). On motorways, the limit is 120 km/h, while on national roads it ranges between 80 and 100 km/h.
Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly punished, with a very low legal limit.
Finally, traffic on roundabouts flows clockwise, and vehicles already inside have the right of way. Personally, roundabouts were the hardest part to get used to, but with defensive driving, it’s perfectly manageable.
Suggested Road Trip Routes in Ireland
The classic route starts in Dublin and heads to Galway, with a stop at the Cliffs of Moher, perfect for a three- to five-day trip.
Another popular option is the Ring of Kerry, a circular route that combines mountains, lakes, and traditional villages.
For those with more time, the Wild Atlantic Way is one of the most stunning coastal drives in the world, stretching from the south to the north of Ireland.
In addition, due to its proximity to Northern Ireland, the Causeway Coastal Route leads to the famous Giant’s Causeway and features landscapes used in the Game of Thrones series.
Those looking for a more peaceful experience can explore the counties of Donegal and Leitrim, known for their wild, untouched landscapes, the perfect setting for an authentic trip away from the crowds.
That’s exactly what I did, and I loved it!
With more than ten days, it’s possible to combine the south and the north in a single road trip, making the most of your car rental.
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We travel as a family, focusing on authentic experiences, sustainable choices, and that extra touch of comfort that makes all the difference. At passaportenobolso.com, we share travel tips and practical information about destinations in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. I’ve visited over 40 countries and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Every now and then, I also travel solo… Follow along on YouTube / Instagram / Facebook / TikTok / X / Pinterest.
