-
Renting a car in Ireland is ideal for exploring beyond Dublin’s city limits, offering freedom to discover Ireland’s stunning countryside, charming villages and iconic coastal routes.
-
Key tips include driving on the left, obeying updated speed limits, choosing manual or automatic cars wisely and understanding tolls and parking challenges, especially in cities.
-
Insurance, rental requirements and safety advice ensure a smooth, stress-free Irish road trip in 2025. Whether you’re tackling the Wild Atlantic Way or hopping between historic towns.
Renting a car in Dublin and driving around Ireland is one of the best ways to explore the stunning landscapes, charming towns and vibrant city life at your own pace. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer road trip around the Emerald Isle, here’s all the essential advice for renting a car in Dublin to help you save money, stay safe and enjoy a hassle-free adventure.
Should You Rent a Car in Dublin?
If you’re just exploring Dublin city centre, a rental car might actually be more trouble than it’s worth. Dublin is walkable and has excellent public transport like the LUAS tram, DART train and frequent buses. Traffic can be busy, parking is expensive and many streets are one-way.
However, if you plan to explore beyond Dublin. Think rolling Irish countryside, coastal roads or charming towns like Kilkenny, Galway or the Ring of Kerry, a rental car is the way to go. Renting a car gives you freedom to roam and experience remote spots that public transport can’t reach.
Where to Rent Your Car in Ireland?
Most travelers pick up their rental car at Dublin Airport for convenience. It’s the largest hub with all major car rental companies available. While airport pick-up is easy, keep in mind a surcharge (around €22) may apply. Also, the app GoCar is well known in Ireland.
If you’re spending some days in Dublin city first and only heading out later, consider picking up your car from downtown locations to avoid airport surcharges and simplify city driving.
Using comparison sites like Discover Cars is a smart way to compare prices across local and international agencies to find the best deal and vehicle for your trip.
Car Rental Requirements in Ireland
-
Valid Driving Licence: EU, EEA and UK licences are valid indefinitely in Ireland. Drivers from the US, Canada, Australia and other countries can usually drive for up to one year with their home licence, but you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
-
Age Restrictions: Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 25 years old, with some setting 30 as minimum. Drivers under 25 or above 75 may face surcharges or restrictions.
-
Credit Card: A credit card is usually required to rent a car and hold a security deposit.
Manual vs Automatic Transmission
Manual cars are standard and cheaper to rent in Ireland, but if you’re unfamiliar with driving stick shift, it’s best to rent an automatic. This cost difference can be significant, but comfort and safety come first.
Tips for Driving in Ireland
-
Drive on the left: It might feel weird at first but you’ll get the hang of it quickly. Just remember your mantra: tight left turns, wide right turns!
-
Roundabouts rule: Yield to traffic already on the roundabout and choose your lane based on your exit. Don’t worry, locals make it pretty smooth.
-
Road conditions: Expect a mix, from smooth motorways connecting cities to narrow single-lane “sheep roads” through the countryside (yes, sheep do roam onto roads sometimes).
-
Speed limits: Reduced recently to boost safety, 80km/h on national roads, 60km/h on rural roads, and 30-50km/h in towns. Watch for speed cameras!
-
Parking: Avoid driving in Dublin city centre if you can. Parking is pricey and scarce. Look for accommodation that offers parking or use public transport to get around. Parking in Dublin city can be challenging and costly, so look for hotels with parking when possible.
-
Rural roads can be narrow and winding with occasional blind curves, so drive carefully and watch for farm vehicles.
-
Always wear seat belts and avoid using a phone while driving.
-
Petrol stations are common but close before entering rural areas, especially in winter.
Insurance & Safety Tips
Rental cars typically include basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), but this often comes with an excess (deductible) of several hundred euros. Always read the fine print carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered. Booking extra coverage or confirming your credit card insurance applies can save you headaches later.
Know the Rules
Ireland takes driving laws seriously. Don’t drink and drive. Keep your licenses and documents handy. Be polite at police checkpoints. Look out for confusing signs and locals driving fast on narrow roads.
Cost of Renting a Car in Dublin
Daily rental rates vary widely, but expect to pay roughly €30-€50 per day for a compact car, with larger vehicles costing more. Seasonal demand (especially summer) and airport pickups can increase prices.
Booking Your Rental Car
Use comparison websites like Discover Cars to search across multiple suppliers and find the best deals in Dublin. Booking early often saves money and guarantees availability, particularly during peak tourism months.
-
Discover Cars: A convenient search engine comparing prices from multiple rental companies to get you the best deal.
-
GoCar: Ireland’s own car-sharing platform offering convenient, short-term car rentals by the hour or day, great for city driving.
-
Enterprise Rent-A-Car: One of the largest global rental companies with multiple locations across Dublin, including Dublin Airport.
-
Hertz: A well-known international brand offering a wide variety of cars and flexible rental options in Dublin.
-
Sixt: Popular for premium cars and competitive prices, with a user-friendly booking app and website.
Booking & Returning Your Rental
Plan to collect your rental car about 30-60 minutes after arrival at the airport or rental location. Allow extra time on return as inspection and paperwork can take up to 30 minutes. Early booking is recommended during peak travel seasons.
What to Do in Case of Breakdown or Accident
Keep emergency numbers handy: 112 is the EU-wide emergency number. Most rental companies provide roadside assistance contacts. If involved in an accident, document the scene carefully and notify both the police and your rental company.
Extras for an Easy Trip
-
Assign a navigator to help with directions and keep an eye on the road.
-
Use your phone’s GPS with a hands-free mount.
-
Take photos of your rental car on pickup to avoid unfair damage charges.
-
Be patient with narrow back roads and oncoming traffic.
-
Remember, sheep are common rural “traffic”. Slow down and enjoy the moment!
Renting a car in Dublin unlocks Ireland’s incredible landscapes and cultural treasures in your own time. No stress, just stunning scenery and an epic road trip vibe. With a bit of prep, Ireland’s roads will become your highway to adventure. Ready to take the wheel? Let’s hit the road and make some memories!
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions:
-
Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Ireland? If you have a valid EU, EEA, or UK driving licence, you don’t need an IDP. Visitors from other countries may need one depending on their home country. Check with your rental company to be sure.
-
Which side of the road do you drive on in Ireland? Ireland drives on the left-hand side of the road. It can take some getting used to, especially if you come from right-side driving countries.
-
What are the speed limits in Ireland? In 2025, speed limits changed: 120 km/h on motorways, 80 km/h on national roads, 60 km/h on rural/local roads, and 30-50 km/h in urban areas.
-
Can I rent a manual or automatic car in Ireland? Manual cars are most common and cheaper to rent. Automatic cars are available but cost more and should be booked in advance if preferred.
-
What age do I need to be to rent a car in Ireland? Most companies rent to drivers 25 and older. Some allow younger drivers from 21 with extra fees.
-
Are there toll roads in Ireland? Yes, some highways and bridges have tolls. The M50 in Dublin uses a barrier-free electronic toll system, so remember to pay online within 8pm the next day!
-
Is insurance included with car rentals? Basic insurance (Collision Damage Waiver) is often included but usually has a high excess. Additional coverage is recommended for peace of mind.
-
How hard is parking in Dublin? Parking in Dublin city centre is limited and expensive. Look for hotels with free parking or use public transport when possible.
-
What should I watch out for while driving in countryside Ireland? Narrow, winding roads, single-lane bridges, and farm animals like sheep can appear suddenly. Drive carefully and be patient.
-
What do I do in case of an accident or breakdown? Dial 112 for emergencies. For breakdowns, call your rental company’s roadside assistance number and follow their instructions.
