Driving in Ireland 2025

Planning on travelling to Ireland with the intention of driving? We’ve got you covered.

Over 2.4 million Brits visited Ireland in 2023, with a good few of them assumingly going out on Irish roads.

Before heading out to Ireland, knowing what the roads entail regarding regulations and what you should have on hand can only help with your experience of driving in Ireland.

What You Will Need

Before heading out to Ireland with the intention of driving, you should know what you will need to ensure you can drive.

Valid Driver’s License and Insurance

Of course, you will need a valid driver's license to be able to drive on any roads.

A UK driving license is valid for driving within Ireland if you are visiting, however, if you’re planning on moving to Ireland you will need to apply to exchange your license online or at a National Driving Licencing Service (NDLS) centre.

If you plan on taking your own vehicle, you will need to make sure the insurance is covered to drive in Ireland.

All third-party UK car insurance policies gives drivers coverage to drive in Ireland. If you have a comprehensive policy, it’s worth to double check if this same coverage is involved in your insurance agreement.

Prepare for Car Rental

When renting a car in Ireland, check the age restrictions – many companies require drivers to be at least 21 and may add surcharges for younger or older drivers.

Ensure your credit card is accepted for deposits, as debit cards may not be. Most cars are manual, so book early if you need an automatic.

Fuel policies may require you to return the car with a full tank, so ensure you have enough time to refuel before returning.

Failure to do so may result in extra charges from the rental company for refuelling at a higher rate.

If you plan to drive into Northern Ireland, confirm with the rental company that cross-border travel is allowed and covered by insurance.

Looking for car rentals? Visit Budget Car Rental Ireland today.

Essentials for Car Journeys

Mobile Phone & Chargers – Ensure compatibility with Irish plug types (Type G)

Navigation Tools – GPS device, or map apps like Google Maps/Waze; carry a physical map for rural areas

Snacks & Water – Ideal for longer journeys on remote roads

Sunglasses – To deal with glare on bright days

Cash & Cards – For toll roads and parking in rural areas

Understanding Irish Road Rules and Regulations

When driving in Ireland, remember that, like the UK, cars drive on the left-hand side of the road.

Speed limits are displayed in kilometres per hour, not miles, so be mindful of this difference, especially when moving between urban areas (50 km/h), rural roads (80-100 km/h), and motorways (120 km/h).

Utilise our mph to kph converter if you struggle with the different speed measurements.

Roundabouts are also common, and you should always give way to traffic coming from the right.

Tyre pressure is another key aspect of road safety, and in Ireland, the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, but it’s always worth checking your tyres regularly, especially if you’re travelling long distances.

In terms of drink-driving, Ireland has strict laws – the legal blood alcohol limit is 50mg for most drivers, but for novice or professional drivers, it's reduced to 20mg.

Lastly, keep an eye out for toll roads, especially around Dublin – make sure you know how to pay them or plan your trip around not using them.

Familiarising yourself with these key rules will help ensure a smooth journey across Ireland.

What to Do in an Emergency

The emergency numbers in Ireland are 112 or 999. You can phone the emergency services through either one of those numbers in the case of an emergency on the road.

Immediate Fines and Payment Policies

In Ireland, traffic authorities can issue on-the-spot fines for certain driving offences.

If a fine is paid within 28 days, the driver benefits from a 50% reduction.

However, if the fine remains unpaid after this period, the amount increases, and legal proceedings may follow.

Drivers have the right to contest fines within a 28-day window.

Scale of Fines

Traffic fines in Ireland vary depending on the severity of the offence. Minor speeding violations can start at €80, while more severe offences can result in fines up to €5,000. Some offences may also lead to penalty points being added to the driver’s license.

Criminal Offences and Heavier Penalties

Certain traffic violations in Ireland are considered criminal offences and may result in harsher penalties, including vehicle confiscation, higher fines, disqualification from driving, and even imprisonment, particularly in cases like drink driving or dangerous driving.

Circumstances Leading to Vehicle Confiscation

Vehicles in Ireland may be confiscated for various reasons, such as driving without insurance, mechanical issues posing a safety risk, excessive noise or pollution, failure to pay fines, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Places to Visit in Ireland

Driving across Ireland provides an exciting opportunity to experience the country’s diverse landscapes, historic sites, and cultural hubs.

Dublin

As the capital city, Dublin is the central hub of business, culture, and history in Ireland.

Drivers should plan their routes in advance to navigate the busy streets efficiently.

Key locations such as Trinity College, the River Liffey, and Phoenix Park provide both historical insight and open spaces for a break from urban driving.

The Wild Atlantic Way

This coastal route covers over 2,500km along Ireland’s western seaboard, featuring rugged cliffs, scenic viewpoints, and picturesque villages. Drivers should be mindful of winding roads, varying speed limits, and remote stretches with limited fuel stops.

Galway

A dynamic city with a mix of traditional and modern influences, Galway is a key stop for road trips. Drivers can explore its compact city centre, while nearby destinations such as Connemara and the Aran Islands require careful travel planning.

The Causeway Coastal Route

Running along the northern coast, this scenic drive features natural and historical attractions, including the Giant’s Causeway. Be prepared for narrow rural roads and check vehicle access at certain landmarks.

Kilkenny

As a medieval town, Kilkenny offers well-preserved architecture and winding streets. Drivers should be aware of pedestrian-heavy areas, particularly near the castle and historic districts.

Cork

Cork is one of Ireland’s key economic and cultural centres, with an active city atmosphere and easy access to surrounding attractions.

Drivers should prepare for city traffic when exploring areas such as the English Market.

Outside the city, Blarney Castle and Cobh provide additional points of interest, requiring short but well-planned road trips

Enjoy Your Time in Ireland

Driving in Ireland can be a pleasant experience, offering the freedom to explore stunning landscapes and charming towns at your own pace.

By staying informed about traffic rules and regulations, you can avoid fines and ensure a smooth journey.

Make sure your vehicle is roadworthy, adhere to speed limits, and always have the required insurance.

Whether you're driving along the scenic Wild Atlantic Way or navigating Dublin's bustling streets, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your time on the road in Ireland is enjoyable and stress-free.

Safe travels!