What You Need to Know About Renting a Car in Ireland

After creating and booking a group trip to Ireland that used rail as our main transportation, I made a change a month before we left for our trip! I was reviewing our itinerary, what it would take to get from the train to our hotels, what the rail options were, and how it would fit with my whole trip vibe. I wasn't a fan and decided to rent a car and drive. This was AFTER I researched what it would be like to drive in Ireland, what kind of car I needed, and what the overall experience would be like. I'm sharing with you what I found! Also, check out my blog about what to expect while driving in Ireland.

So, what are the car rental requirements in Ireland? If you'd like to read more details, read below! If you prefer a checklist, you can grab yours here.

Winding through misty mountains

What Documents Will You Need When Renting a Car in Ireland?

Before you even think about which charming Irish towns to visit, make sure you have these essentials:

• Valid driver's license from your home country – this must be current and not expired

• International Driving Permit (IDP) – while not mandatory for all visitors, this is strongly recommended if your license isn't from an EU country

• Valid passport – rental companies will need to verify your identity

• Credit card in the main driver's name – important note: most Irish rental companies do NOT accept debit cards for the security deposit

• Proof of address – some companies may request this, so have a recent utility bill or bank statement accessible on your phone

  
  

Age Restrictions to Consider

Before booking, be aware of these age-related requirements:

• Minimum age requirement ranges from 21-25 years, depending on the rental company

• Maximum age limits of 70-75 years exist with some companies (though not all)

• Under-25 surcharges typically apply – expect to pay €25-40 extra per day if you're a younger driver

  
  

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Seaside road

Understanding Irish Car Insurance

Insurance for rentals in Ireland can be confusing but is essential:

• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is mandatory – this provides basic coverage but usually with a high excess (deductible) of €1,000-3,000

• Super CDW is strongly recommended to reduce your liability to a much more manageable amount (€100-300)

• Third Party Liability Insurance is mandatory and covers damage to other vehicles or property

• Personal Accident Insurance is optional but worth considering for medical coverage

• Theft Protection is recommended, especially if visiting larger cities

Important Insurance Tip: When renting a car in Ireland, many travelers assume their credit card insurance will cover their rental in Ireland. However, Ireland is specifically excluded from many credit card insurance policies, particularly those issued in the United States. Always contact your credit card company to verify coverage and get written confirmation if they claim to cover Ireland. Even when they do offer coverage, it often comes with significant limitations.

Choosing the Right Vehicle

Your choice of vehicle can make or break your Irish driving experience:

• Manual transmission is standard in Ireland – automatics are available but limited in number and significantly more expensive (often €15-20 extra per day)

• Smaller vehicles are highly recommended for navigating Ireland's notoriously narrow country roads and finding parking in medieval towns

• Check for unlimited mileage options – Ireland may be small, but those scenic detours add up quickly!

  
  

Road in Northern Ireland

Booking Details to Confirm

Before finalizing your reservation:

• Save your reservation confirmation number somewhere easily accessible

• Verify pickup/drop-off locations – airport pickups often incur additional fees

• Confirm pickup/drop-off times – many locations close early on Sundays

• Review the full price breakdown including all fees and taxes to avoid surprises

  
  

Regional Driving Considerations

Once you're behind the wheel:

• Drive on the left side of the road – this takes some adjustment if you're used to driving on the right

• Know your fuel type – be absolutely sure whether your rental requires petrol (gasoline) or diesel

• Northern Ireland border crossings may require notification to your rental company – some have restrictions or additional fees

  
  

Final Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Book your rental well in advance, especially during peak summer months

• Consider picking up at airports for better rates and wider vehicle selection

• Take photos of the car before leaving the lot to document any existing damage

• Familiarize yourself with common Irish road signs before your trip

• Remember that distances on Irish maps can be deceptive – those narrow country roads take longer to navigate than you might expect

  
  

With the right preparation, driving through Ireland can be one of the most rewarding travel experiences. The flexibility to stop at that perfect viewpoint, pop into an inviting pub in a tiny village, or take an unplanned detour to a hidden castle makes the extra planning well worth it.

Safe travels and slán abhaile (safe home)!

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