Ready to hit the road? Use the search form above to find your ideal car rental in Ireland. Select your pickup location (choose from major airports like Dublin (DUB) or Shannon (SNN), or city centers in Dublin, Cork, Galway, etc.), pick your dates, and click “Search.” In seconds, you’ll see real-time offers from dozens of trusted rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Budget, and more) for everything from compact cars to 9-seater vans. Filter by vehicle type, price, or supplier to compare deals easily. Booking is fast and secure, with most rentals offering pay-at-pickup and free cancellation if your plans change. Lock in a cheap Ireland car hire now
Ireland is a country made for road trips. From rugged Atlantic coastlines and medieval castles to rolling green hills dotted with sheep, having your own rental car gives you the freedom to discover the Emerald Isle on your terms. Public transportation exists but won’t reach the off-the-beaten-path villages, cliffside ruins, or hidden pubs that make Ireland special. By renting a car, you can set your own schedule linger at the Cliffs of Moher during sunset, detour through a quaint town for lunch, or pull over whenever a scenic vista beckons. Plus, with AirportVanRental’s network of suppliers across Ireland, you’re sure to find the perfect vehicle at a great price. In short, renting a car in Ireland is the best way to unlock the country’s diverse charms from Dublin’s city streets to Kerry’s coastal byways all at your own pace.
Freedom to Explore Every Corner: In Ireland, many of the most beautiful places are far from train stations. A rental car lets you venture beyond the main tourist hubs. Want to drive the Wild Atlantic Way along windswept coasts or visit a hidden Celtic ruin on a hillside? With your own car, you can. You’re not tied to bus routes take that spur-of-the-moment turn down a country lane, and you might discover a quaint village or an ancient stone circle all by yourself.
No Rushing Your Adventure: Enjoy the famous sights at your own pace. Spend extra time admiring the Book of Kells in Dublin, or linger over a Guinness in a small-town pub without worrying about the last bus back. With a car, your schedule is your own. Driving also makes it easy to cover multiple attractions in one day you could breakfast in Galway, explore the Cliffs of Moher by afternoon, and be in Killarney by nightfall, something nearly impossible on public transport.
Scenic Drives at Every Turn: Ireland’s roads offer spectacular scenery, turning any drive into part of the adventure. Cruise through the Ring of Kerry with its ocean vistas and mountain passes, or drive the twisting roads of Connemara where lakes and peat bogs stretch for miles. These routes are world-famous for a reason having a car means you can stop for photos at that stunning overlook or follow a signpost to an unexpected viewpoint whenever you please.
Access to Rural Gems: Public transit in Ireland mainly connects larger towns, but a car lets you reach remote beaches, national parks, and countryside gems. Visit the monastic ruins of Glendalough in Wicklow’s mountains at dawn before the tour buses arrive, or drive up to Slieve League in Donegal Europe’s highest sea cliffs which are nearly unreachable without your own wheels. A rental car ensures no corner of Ireland is off-limits.
Convenient for Families & Groups: Traveling with family or a group of friends? Renting one vehicle can be more cost-effective (and certainly easier) than buying multiple bus or train tickets. Pile everyone into a spacious SUV or van, split the rental cost, and enjoy the journey together. You’ll have room for luggage, the flexibility to make pit stops (important when traveling with kids!), and a private space to sing along to Irish music as you drive. It’s a stress-free way to keep your crew together and make shared memories on the road.
Our Ireland Car Rental Benefits (Why Book with AVR)
When you book your Ireland car hire through AirportVanRental, you get far more than just a car you get peace of mind and great value. Here’s why savvy travelers choose AVR as their trusted OTA partner for Ireland:
Wide Vehicle Selection: Whether you need a zippy economy car for Dublin’s city streets or a roomy 7-9 seater van for a family tour of the countryside, we’ve got you covered. Our platform pulls from 50+ rental brands across Ireland, so you can find everything from compact manuals to luxury automatics and passenger vans. Need an automatic transmission (since many Irish rentals are manual)? Just filter for automatics and book with confidence. We specialize in hard-to-find vehicle classes too planning a group golf trip? We have vans with extra cargo room for clubs. Whatever your plans, you’ll see plenty of options.
Best Rate Guarantee: We constantly compare prices to ensure you get the lowest rates in EUR. By aggregating deals from international companies and local Irish agencies, we highlight discounts you won’t find on single-company sites. If you somehow find a better rate for the same itinerary, let us know we’ll match it. The price you see is in Euros and includes mandatory fees (like taxes and standard insurance), so you can budget accurately. Saving you money is our mission, meaning more euros in your pocket for fish & chips or that extra pint of Guinness on your trip!
No Hidden Fees & Free Cancellation: With AVR, what you see is what you pay. We hate hidden fees as much as you do. All mandatory charges (road taxes, airport surcharges, etc.) are clearly displayed upfront in your quote no nasty surprises at the rental desk. Many of our Ireland deals also come with free cancellation up to 48 hours before pick-up, so you can book early without worry. Plans changed? No problem modify or cancel and no penalty (just double-check the cancellation policy on your specific deal). Travel should come with flexibility, and we’ve built that into our bookings.
Trusted Partners & Support: We only work with reputable rental partners in Ireland. From big brands to reliable local firms, each is vetted for quality service and fleet upkeep. You can read customer reviews for many options on our site. And if you hit a snag, we’re here to help our 24/7 customer support team can assist with anything from flight delays affecting your pickup to questions about insurance coverage. Booking through AVR means you have an advocate if any issues arise. We’re a phone call or click away, ready to make sure your Ireland car rental experience is smooth sailing (or should we say, smooth driving).
One-Way Rentals & Airport Convenience: Flying into Dublin but out of Shannon? No problem many of our partners allow one-way rentals within Ireland. Just choose different pick-up and drop-off locations in our search, and we’ll show you any applicable one-way fee upfront (often it’s quite reasonable). Also, all major Irish airports are covered with on-site or shuttle-access rentals. Land at Dublin Airport and you can be in your rental car within minutes, without the hassle of traveling to an off-site location. We’re all about convenience so you can maximize your time on vacation.
Top Ireland Car Rental Deals
We’ve gathered some example deals to give you an idea of how affordable renting a car in Ireland can be. (Rates fluctuate by season and availability, but these “from” prices were recently found for popular locations like Dublin book early for the best prices!)
Prices above are sample starting rates and may vary by city and date. “From €X” means we found that rate recently for a base-category car on certain off-peak dates Ireland’s rental prices can be higher in summer (peak tourist season) or around holidays. Always search with your exact dates and locations to see current deals. Keep in mind, Irish rentals usually include basic insurance and taxes in the quoted price. Book early to lock in low rates last-minute bookings in July or August could be pricier. With AirportVanRental’s transparency, you’ll see the full cost including mandatory fees before you book, so there are no surprises at pick-up.
Driving in Ireland: Laws, Tips & What to Expect
Driving in Ireland is a joy you’ll encounter everything from modern highways to narrow country lanes that wind past stone walls and sheep pastures. Here’s what you need to know for a safe and smooth driving experience on the Emerald Isle:
Road Rules & Licensing: In Ireland, traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road. If you’re coming from North America or mainland Europe, this will be the opposite of what you’re used to, so take some time to adjust maybe practice in the rental car lot or a quiet side street before hitting busy roads. The driver’s seat is on the right side of the car, and roundabouts circulate clockwise. You can legally drive in Ireland with a valid license from your home country. If your license is in English (e.g. US, Canada, UK, Australia), you do not need an International Driving Permit for Ireland. If it’s in another language or non-Roman script, an IDP is recommended as a translation. Rental agencies typically require drivers to be 21 or older (some require 23-25; see FAQs) and to have held a license for at least one or two years. Always carry your driver’s license, passport, and rental agreement when driving police checkpoints are rare but can occur.
Speed Limits & Signs: Ireland uses the metric system speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour (km/h). Typical limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on regional rural roads, 100 km/h on national primary roads, and 120 km/h on motorways. Road signs are in English and Irish (Gaelic) in the Republic. You’ll see directional signs with place names in both languages (for example, “Baile Átha Cliath” for Dublin). A rectangular sign with black lettering shows the town name as you enter, and a similar sign with a red slash indicates you’re leaving that town (and the default speed limit may change). Watch out for warning signs in Ireland they are yellow diamonds (similar to US style) with pictograms. Common ones include a symbol for two-way traffic (opposing arrows) when a road narrows, or a silhouette of an animal (sheep crossing, perhaps!). Pay attention, especially on country roads where you might come over a hill to find a slow tractor or a flock of sheep on the road.
Driving Etiquette & Left-Side Tips: On narrow rural roads, it’s customary to wave or flash your lights as a thank-you if another driver pulls over to let you pass. Many backroads are single-lane but two-way; you’ll use pull-offs (wide shoulder spots) to navigate past oncoming cars. Go slow and be prepared to yield locals are used to it. At roundabouts, yield to traffic coming from your right (traffic already in the circle). Use your left-turn signal when you’re about to exit the roundabout. It’s illegal to hold a mobile phone while driving (hands-free is okay), and of course, seat belts are mandatory for all occupants. Irish drivers often flash their hazard lights briefly to thank you after overtaking or letting them in a friendly gesture you can emulate. In general, driving in Ireland is relaxed; just be patient behind farm equipment and don’t be surprised if locals wave hello as you pass through rural villages.
Road Conditions: Major routes (like the M1, M7, M8, etc.) and motorways between cities are smooth and well-maintained. But once you get onto regional and local roads, expect them to be much narrower than what you might be used to. Many country roads are only one lane each way or less with no shoulder and bordered by hedges or stone walls. Take corners slowly, as visibility can be limited by high hedgerows. In remote areas, roads might be uneven or have potholes, though Ireland has improved many surfaces in recent years. If you see a line of cars behind you and you’re not comfortable driving faster, it’s polite to pull into a lay-by and let them pass when safe. Rain is common, and roads can become slippery reduce your speed in wet conditions to avoid hydroplaning. Also be cautious of sheep or cows wandering onto roads, especially in scenic areas like Connemara or the Ring of Kerry. It’s part of the Irish driving charm to occasionally yield to livestock!
Tolls (M50 and More): Ireland has a few toll roads. Notably, Dublin’s ring motorway (M50) uses an electronic toll system with no cash booths. If you drive on the M50 Westlink (near the Liffey crossing), a camera will record your license plate. As a renter, you do not stop to pay; instead, the toll (about €3) must be paid by 8 PM the next day online or at certain shops, or the rental company will bill you (often with an extra fee). Many rental companies automatically charge your credit card for the M50 toll, but ask your agency how they handle it. Other toll roads (for example, parts of the M1 toward Belfast, M7/M8 toward Cork/Limerick, etc.) have traditional toll plazas usually around €1.90 to €3.00 for cars. These accept cash (Euro) and often credit cards. Keep some coins handy just in case. You can usually avoid tolls by taking older national roads, but it will be slower for instance, avoiding the M50 around Dublin would mean driving through city traffic. Generally, it’s worth paying the small toll for the time saved. We’ll always list known toll info in your quote when possible.
Fuel (Petrol/Diesel) in Ireland: Fuel is sold by the liter. The average price for petrol (unleaded gasoline) in Ireland as of mid-2025 is around €1.75 per liter (roughly $1.90 USD/L, which is about $7.20 USD per US gallon). Diesel is usually slightly cheaper per liter. Most rental cars in Ireland run on petrol, though some larger vehicles and vans may be diesel double-check what your car uses before you fill up (the fuel type is often noted on the key fob or fuel cap). Gas stations (often called “petrol stations”) are common even in rural areas, though in the far west or in the mountains they can be sparse so don’t let your tank get too low before refueling. Stations on highways and in towns are typically self-service or have an attendant at the payment kiosk, but full-service attendants who pump for you are rare outside some rural stations. Generally, you’ll pump the fuel first, then go inside to pay the cashier (note the pump number). Credit cards are widely accepted for fuel, but some unattended pumps (especially late-night or in small villages) might require a chip-and-PIN card or cash. Tipping is not expected at gas stations in Ireland since you usually serve yourself. One tip: say “Fill it up, please” if an attendant is present and you want a full tank. Also, be aware that many stations close by 9-10 PM in the countryside plan accordingly if you’re driving late.
Parking & Driving in Cities: In Dublin and other cities, traffic can be heavy, and parking can be a challenge. Dublin has metered on-street parking in many areas (look for the pay-and-display machines or use local parking apps). Always check signage for restrictions a continuous yellow line at the curb means no parking during certain hours, double yellow means no parking at any time. In cities, you might prefer to use parking garages for longer stays; Dublin, Cork, and Galway all have several public car parks (garages) in central locations they charge a hourly or daily rate. It’s often worth the cost for the peace of mind and to avoid circling narrow streets. If your hotel is in a city center, see if they offer parking or a discount at a nearby garage. Never leave valuables visible in the car when parked Ireland is generally very safe, but it’s a good rule anywhere to deter smash-and-grab theft. Outside urban areas, parking is usually straightforward just avoid blocking farm gates or driveways. At major tourist sites like Cliffs of Moher or Giant’s Causeway (NI), there are dedicated parking lots (often fee-based). For example, Cliffs of Moher’s parking fee is typically included in the visitor center ticket. One more note: In some smaller towns, you might encounter “disk parking” zones (a system where you buy a cardboard disk from a local shop to indicate your parking time). If you see signs for disc parking, pop into a petrol station or newsagent to buy a parking disk they’re inexpensive and instructions on how to display them are on the disk. This system is less common now but still used in a few places.
Seasonal Considerations: Ireland’s weather is famously variable. In winter (December–February), ice or frost can occur on roads, especially in the early morning or at higher elevations. Snow is relatively rare and usually light, but if you plan to drive in hilly areas in winter, be prepared for occasional snow or sleet main roads will be gritted by local councils when needed. In summer, daylight hours are long (it may be light until 10 PM in June), which is great for extending your driving tour, but popular tourist routes will have more traffic (particularly tour buses on routes like the Ring of Kerry). A local tip: On the Ring of Kerry, most tour buses drive counter-clockwise (via Killarney → Killorglin → around back to Kenmare), so if you drive the opposite direction you’ll avoid getting stuck behind them. Also, petrol stations may have shorter hours on Sundays or holidays plan fuel stops accordingly. Finally, always keep an eye on the road even as you admire the scenery Irish roads can surprise you with a sharp bend or a wandering sheep at any time! With sensible precautions, driving in Ireland is safe and incredibly rewarding, allowing you to see the true heart of the country.
Popular Road Trips in Ireland
One of the best parts of having a car in Ireland is the ability to embark on epic road trips. Here are three classic Irish road trip routes to inspire your journey:
1. Dublin to Killarney (Southern Ireland Castle & Coast Adventure) Approx. 350 km, 4–5 days recommended
Start in Dublin, Ireland’s capital, then make your way south toward County Kerry for an unforgettable mix of history and scenery. Head out from Dublin on the M7 motorway consider a stop at the Rock of Cashel in Tipperary after about 170 km (2 hours). This medieval fortress and cathedral sit dramatically on a hill a great first taste of Ireland’s ancient heritage. Continue southwest through Cork (Ireland’s second city, known for its foodie scene and the nearby Blarney Castle you can pause to kiss the famous Blarney Stone if you fancy!). From Cork, drive west on N22 about 90 km to reach Killarney, the gateway to County Kerry’s scenic wonders.
In Killarney, you’ve entered one of Ireland’s most beautiful regions. Spend a day exploring Killarney National Park drive (or cycle) the quiet Gap of Dunloe, visit the 19th-century Muckross House, and snap photos at Torc Waterfall. When you’re ready, set out on the Ring of Kerry, a loop drive around the Iveragh Peninsula (we detail it below). You can actually incorporate the Ring into this trip or do it as a day trip from Killarney. Don’t miss sights like Ladies View (a famous panorama spot) and Ross Castle on Lough Leane. If time allows, also consider a side trip to Dingle Peninsula for another dose of coastal magic (see Road Trip #2). Eventually, you’ll circle back toward Killarney. Pro tip: Summer traffic in Kerry can be heavy, especially with tour buses. To avoid congestion, depart Killarney early in the morning. Also, many Irish roads here are winding distances deceive, 50 km might take over an hour of driving. But every turn reveals a new postcard-worthy view. This Dublin-to-Kerry journey showcases Ireland’s urban buzz, storied castles, and breathtaking Atlantic landscapes all in one route.
2. Galway to Donegal (Wild Atlantic Way Highlights) Approx. 300 km, 3–4 days
Experience some of the wildest stretches of Ireland’s famed Wild Atlantic Way. Begin in Galway, a lively artsy city on the west coast. From Galway, take the N59 road west into Connemara an enchanting region of lakes, bogs, and mountains. Drive through quaint villages like Clifden and perhaps take the Sky Road loop for panoramas of the Atlantic and offshore islands. Heading north, consider detouring to Kylemore Abbey, an elegant lakeside castle-turned-convent nestled against a mountain one of the most photographed spots in Ireland.
Continue north into County Mayo. A worthy stop is Croagh Patrick near Westport if you’re up for it, a hike to the summit of this pilgrimage mountain yields insane views over Clew Bay (but even a photo from the base is inspiring). Drive on through Ballycroy National Park’s wild expanses and into County Donegal. Here the scenery is rugged and less visited jagged coastline, windswept beaches, and friendly small towns. Aim for Donegal Town or further west to Killybegs as an overnight base. The next day, venture to Slieve League Cliffs, about 50 km west of Donegal Town. These sea cliffs tower 600 meters above the ocean nearly three times taller than Cliffs of Moher and truly awe-inspiring. You can drive most of the way (small road to the viewing area) and then walk to the highest points. Driving in this area is an adventure itself narrow roads, sheep crossings, and jaw-dropping coastal vistas. As you wrap up in Donegal, you might swing by Glenveagh National Park in north Donegal (if time permits) for a taste of the highlands there’s a stunning valley and castle there. This road trip is all about remote beauty and the untamed Atlantic coast. Tip: Fuel up when you can in rural Donegal; towns are farther apart here. Also, weather can change quickly have rain gear handy so a passing shower doesn’t stop you from enjoying a cliff-top walk.
3. Dublin to Wicklow Mountains (Scenic Day Trip Loop) Approx. 120 km round-trip, 1–2 days
If you’re based in Dublin and want a fantastic short road trip, head south into County Wicklow, nicknamed the “Garden of Ireland.” In just an hour’s drive from the city, you’ll be amid lush mountains and glens. Take the N11/M11 out of Dublin and then R755 toward Glendalough. This valley in the Wicklow Mountains National Park is famous for its 6th-century monastic ruins set between two lakes. Park and explore the round tower, ancient stone churches, and scenic walking trails around the lakes the peace and scenery are soul-soothing.
After Glendalough, continue over the Wicklow Gap (R756), a mountain pass with panoramic views. You’ll descend toward the pretty town of Hollywood (yes, Hollywood, Ireland photo op with the town sign!). From there, consider looping west on R758/R758 to Kilkenny (if you wanted to extend this to two days, Kilkenny’s medieval charm and castle are worth it). Otherwise, loop back east via the Sally Gap (R759) this high moorland road will make you feel like you’re in the Scottish Highlands. It passes by Lough Tay, often called the Guinness Lake because it’s dark peaty water resembles a pint (the Guinness family estate is nearby). The scenery along the Sally Gap road is dramatic rolling peat bogs, streams, and purple heather in late summer. Finally, head north back to Dublin via Enniskerry (stop to see the waterfall at Powerscourt if you have time). This loop can be done in a day (approximately 3–4 hours driving total), but it’s best enjoyed with an overnight in a country B&B. It’s a local favorite driving route for good reason you get mountains, historic sites, and postcard villages all in one compact trip, right on Dublin’s doorstep.
(Remember, driving times in Ireland can be longer than they look on the map due to winding roads. Always give yourself extra time and don’t try to pack in too much each day. Part of the joy is stopping spontaneously you never know when you’ll spot a sign for a hidden castle ruin or a viewpoint that isn’t in any guidebook!)
Frequently Asked Questions
In the Republic of Ireland, you drive on the left-hand side of the road (the steering wheel is on the right side of the car). This is the same as the UK and opposite of the US/Canada and most of Europe. It may feel strange at first if you’re not used to left-side driving. Take it slow and practice in a low-traffic area; you’ll get the hang of it quickly. At roundabouts, remember to yield to traffic coming from your right and go clockwise around. Many rental cars in Ireland have manual transmission if you’re also not used to shifting gears left-handed, consider renting an automatic for easier adjustment.
Yes, you can rent and drive with a valid U.S. driver’s license (or any valid license in English) in Ireland an International Driving Permit is not required by law for licenses in English. If your license is from an EU country, the UK, U.S., Canada, Australia, etc., rental agencies will accept it. However, if your license is in another language or non-Latin script (for example, Chinese, Russian, Arabic, etc.), it’s recommended to carry an IDP which provides an official translation. The IDP is basically a booklet translating your license into multiple languages, including English and Irish. Even if not strictly required, having one can smooth the rental process and any encounters with local authorities. Always bring your original license the IDP alone isn’t valid without it. Also, be sure your license will be valid for the entire rental period (it shouldn’t expire during your trip). In summary: Americans, Canadians, Brits, etc., no worries just your home license is fine. Others, get an IDP to be safe. And remember, the driving age requirements still apply (see next question).
The minimum age to rent a car in Ireland is generally 21 years old, but many major rental companies set their minimum at 23 or 25. Drivers under 25 will usually pay a “young driver surcharge” (approximately €10–€15 per day, depending on the company) and may be limited to certain car categories (typically economy or compact no luxury cars or large vans for under-25s). If you are 21–22, only a few companies will rent to you, often with a high fee and lower insurance coverage, so do check carefully. On the flip side, there is no official maximum age to rent a car in Ireland, but some rental agencies have policies for older drivers. If you are over about 75 years old, a few companies might require you to provide a doctor’s note or proof of recent driving experience/insurance. Other companies (like “Irish Car Rentals”) have no upper age limit at all. Our advice: if you’re over 70, check the terms of the specific supplier it will state if any extra documentation is needed. Many seniors rent cars in Ireland without issue. And if you’re under 25, be prepared for that surcharge and possibly a higher security deposit. In all cases, you must have held a valid license for at least one or two years (varies by rental company).
In Ireland, third-party liability insurance is mandatory and by law it’s included in all rentals. Additionally, most Irish car rentals include a basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) in the price. CDW isn’t full insurance but it limits your financial responsibility for damage to the car, typically leaving you with an excess (deductible) of around €1,000–€2,000. This means if the car is damaged, you’d pay up to that amount and the CDW covers the rest. At the counter, the agent will likely offer you options to reduce that excess often called Super CDW or excess waiver for an extra daily fee. If you purchase the super cover, you can reduce your liability to a few hundred euros or even zero. Whether you need it is up to your risk tolerance and possibly other coverage you have. Many credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.) do not cover car rentals in Ireland Ireland is one of a few countries often excluded from credit card CDW insurance, so do not assume your card covers you (check with your card company beforehand). Because of this, some renters opt for the full insurance package for peace of mind. Also note: Windscreen (windshield) and tire damage, roof damage, and undercarriage damage are usually not covered by basic CDW, nor are lost keys. You can often buy specific coverage for glass/tires if you want. Theft Protection is usually included as well, covering the vehicle if stolen (rare in Ireland, but it’s there). In summary, you must have at least the included CDW + liability. We strongly recommend either using a credit card that explicitly covers Ireland or buying the Super CDW to bring your liability down it can make your trip stress-free, knowing you won’t have a big bill for an unlucky scrape or pothole incident. And always, always review the insurance details of your booking on our site so you know what’s included. If anything is unclear, ask us or the rental agent before driving off.
The majority of rental cars in Ireland are manual transmission. Many local drivers use stick shifts, so rental fleets reflect that. However, automatics are available in every size category you just need to reserve in advance. Automatics tend to be a bit more expensive (often €5–€15 more per day) and they get booked up quickly, especially in peak season (summer). If you only drive automatic, make sure to choose “Automatic” in the car filter when booking. On our site you’ll see transmission type listed for each vehicle. There’s a decent selection of automatics particularly at major pick-up locations like Dublin Airport common models include automatic compact cars, midsize sedans, and SUVs. If you can handle a manual, you’ll have more choices and often a lower price. But if you’re not comfortable with stick (and keep in mind you’d be shifting with your left hand due to right-side drive), it’s worth the extra cost for an automatic. Tip: Ireland’s terrain has some steep hills (e.g., in Kerry or Donegal); if you’re iffy with manual hill starts, go automatic or ensure the car has hill assist. In any case, whichever you choose, confirm it when you pick up (“Manual or auto?”) so there’s no confusion. Rental agents will typically assume manual unless it explicitly says auto on your reservation.
Fuel in Ireland is fairly expensive compared to North America. As of mid-2025, unleaded petrol is around €1.70–€1.80 per liter (that’s roughly $7 per US gallon) and diesel about €1.60–€1.70 per liter. Make sure to budget for fuel if you’re covering long distances. Now, regarding fuel policy: Almost all rentals in Ireland are provided with a full tank and they expect you to return it full. This is known as a full-to-full policy. It’s the most fair you only pay for what you use. So yes, plan to stop at a petrol station near your drop-off location to top up the tank before returning the car. If you don’t, the rental company will refuel it and charge a premium per liter (often significantly higher than pump price, plus a service fee). Some agencies might offer a prepaid fuel option (you pay for a full tank at pick-up and can return empty), but unless you’re certain you’ll return truly empty, it’s usually not cost-effective we generally advise sticking with full-to-full. One more tip: fuel types “Unleaded Petrol” (sometimes just labeled 95 or E5) vs. Diesel. Double-check your car’s fuel type when you pick it up! Putting petrol in a diesel car (or vice versa) is a common mistake that can be very costly. The fuel cap or keychain tag often indicates the correct fuel. When refueling, green handles are usually unleaded, black handles diesel in Ireland (opposite of some countries). If unsure, ask the station attendant or another customer Irish people are friendly and will gladly help if you say “Sorry, new to Ireland is this the right pump for petrol/diesel?”
Yes, there are a few toll roads, mainly on major motorways radiating from Dublin. The most important one to know is the M50 around Dublin, which has an electronic barrier-free toll. There is no cash booth on the M50; a camera automatically registers your car. If you’re in a rental, the toll (currently about €3.10) will need to be paid by you before 8 PM the next day. How? Easiest is online at eFlow’s website or at a Payzone outlet (many convenience stores/petrol stations). However, most rental companies handle the M50 toll for you by charging the fee to your credit card on file (plus maybe a small admin fee). It’s important to ask your rental agency their policy: do you need to self-pay or will they bill you? Other toll roads (with physical booths) include parts of the M1 (Dublin to Belfast route), M7/M8 (toward Limerick/Cork), M4 (toward Galway), the East-Link bridge in Dublin, and a few others. These have toll plazas where you can pay in cash (euros) or often by credit card. Costs range from around €1.40 to €3.00 for cars on different sections. For example, driving from Dublin to Cork you’d encounter a €2 toll on the M8. If you have no Euros handy, don’t panic most staffed booths give change and many automatic machines take cards. There will be signs well in advance of toll plazas announcing the fee and the acceptable payment methods. Keep some coins in the car just in case the card readers are down. Lastly, if you completely avoid highways (sticking to smaller national roads), you won’t hit tolls but your travel time will be longer. In summary: M50 = special case (no barrier, pay online or via rental company), other tolls = pay as you go at the booth. As long as you either pay the M50 charge or confirm your rental company’s handling, you’ll be fine just don’t inadvertently skip paying the M50, since fines can mount if unpaid (the rental company would forward those to you later).
Yes. Ireland is generally a very safe country to drive in, and millions of tourists successfully self-drive here every year. Irish drivers are mostly courteous (especially in rural areas you’ll often get a friendly wave). Crime against drivers or tourists is very low highway robberies and such simply aren’t a thing. That said, safety comes down to being a prudent driver. Roads in the countryside can be narrow and twisty, so drive at a speed comfortable for you, even if locals may know the bends by heart and drive faster. If someone is tailing you on a narrow road, find a safe spot to let them pass rather than feeling pressured. At night, try to avoid rural driving if you’re not confident many minor roads have no street lighting and can be tricky to navigate in the dark (plus, it’s easy to miss a turn). Weather can be a factor: Ireland gets rain frequently, and fog is possible in hilly areas. Always use your headlights in low visibility (it’s required by law to use headlights in darkness or poor conditions many cars also have daytime running lights). In winter, watch for frost or ice in early morning on shaded roads. Also, never drink and drive Ireland has strict enforcement on drunk driving with low legal alcohol limits (and random checkpoints). The good news: outside of big cities, traffic is usually light. Even on highways, congestion is not bad except perhaps around Dublin during rush hour. In cities like Dublin, just be cautious of cyclists and pedestrians Dublin has many one-way streets and bus lanes; a GPS is very helpful there. All rentals will have the required safety equipment (like a reflective vest and warning triangle) in the vehicle in case of breakdown check the trunk for these items when you pick up the car so you know they’re there (hopefully you won’t need them). If you do break down, use your hazard lights and pull off the road as much as possible, then contact the rental’s emergency roadside assistance number. Overall, if you use common sense and stay alert (especially as you adapt to left-side driving), you’ll find driving in Ireland safe and truly rewarding it opens up parts of the country you’d never see otherwise.
Yes, you can. Northern Ireland (part of the UK) shares an open land border with the Republic of Ireland, and car rentals are generally allowed to travel between the two. If you plan to drive into Northern Ireland (for example, taking a trip from Dublin up to Belfast or the Giant’s Causeway), most rental companies simply require you to inform them at pick-up. Many will provide a “Green Card” or equivalent proof of insurance valid in the UK (sometimes they charge a modest fee for cross-border coverage, around €20–€30, but often not). The border itself has no checkpoints you likely won’t even realize you’ve crossed except the road signs change (Northern Ireland uses miles per hour and signs in English only). Just make sure the car has GB/IRL/EU plates or a sticker indicating it’s insured for both countries (most do). Also note: fuel is in litres and currency in pounds sterling (£) in Northern Ireland, versus euros € in the Republic, so be ready for that change. If you’re dropping the car off in a different country than you picked up (say, pick up in Dublin, drop in Belfast), that is usually considered an international one-way rental and will incur a hefty fee generally it’s more economical to return the car in the same country and take other transport across the border if ending your trip, but for day trips or short visits it’s no problem to drive across. In summary, driving north or south across the Irish border is easy and common. Just notify the rental agency, and enjoy the fact that you can seamlessly explore both the Republic and Northern Ireland.