Car Rental in Ireland: All Our Tips
Renting a car in Ireland is rather complex! Indeed, Irish rental agencies require numerous documents, guarantees, and a specific credit card.
Renting a car in Ireland is rather complex! Indeed, Irish car rental agencies require numerous documents, guarantees, and a specific credit card. They also impose a high excess and rental conditions that aren't always easy to understand… You're wondering what the minimum age is to rent a car? How much does the deposit cost? Which insurance should you take? We'll tell you everything…
What documents do you need to rent a car in Ireland?
A valid ID card
The administrative requirements for traveling to Ireland are fairly straightforward. As an EU citizen, you don't need to apply for a visa. However, make sure your ID card is valid, or you risk being denied entry.
A driving license held for at least 2 years
When it comes to your driving license? It's not straightforward either! The driver must have held their license for at least two years. Be just as careful on this point, or you risk not being able to rent a car once there or, again, having to pay additional fees.
A credit card (not a debit card)
To rent a car in Ireland, you must absolutely have a credit card – not a debit card! This detail matters. Indeed, although the term "credit card" is commonly used to refer to any bank card, it is in reality, most of the time, a debit card. Check – it's written in small print on the front or back of your card…
The difference? With a standard debit card, your expenses are charged as you make purchases. A credit card, on the other hand, accumulates purchase amounts and allows you to pay later – often at the end of the month. Rental agencies prefer the latter because it serves as a guarantee for the deposit (excess). Note that the credit card must also be in the name of the driver of the rental vehicle!
If you don't have time to get a credit card before you leave? In that case, you'll need to purchase additional insurance (around €30/day) – or you won't be able to rent a vehicle!
Important Note If you're booking online, also prioritize a credit card. A debit card won't prevent you from paying online, but once in Ireland, you'll face the deposit issue. If the agency doesn't offer the additional insurance option, then you won't be allowed to rent a vehicle (and likely won't be refunded). |
How to rent a car in Ireland?
Step 1: Choose the agency
At the airport
All agencies are located at the airport exit. To decide which to choose, compare them beforehand and pick the one that suits you best.
Online
Are you hesitant about whether to book on-site or in advance online? Know that renting online avoids long queues at airport counters and pressure tactics (on certain options… that you don't actually need). It also helps avoid budget surprises.
Step 2: Rent the car
Vehicles are picked up in airport arrival halls (Terminal T2 in Dublin). To make the process easier, prepare all your documents well, along with a copy of your online booking, if you have one.
General Terms and Conditions
To avoid any misunderstanding, read the general terms and conditions carefully before signing your rental contract (even if you're going through a third party like a travel agency).
Insurance and excess
Most contracts include third-party insurance, comprehensive coverage and theft, as well as an excess (also called deposit or deposit) with a fairly high amount – between €1,500 and €3,000, depending on the agency and vehicle type.
The excess amount is charged as soon as you collect the vehicle. It is then fully refunded within 15 days if the vehicle is undamaged. It's also possible to take out insurance with no excess… In that case, you won't have to pay fees if there's a problem. In return, this type of insurance is more expensive.
Price
The price of a rental vehicle varies depending on the season, car model, and mileage. To keep costs down, it's advisable to opt for unlimited mileage – unless your stay is in a restricted area.
If you're traveling with children, you'll also need to pay for a booster seat option (check with the agency on this: child's age, height, etc.). GPS is also a paid option.
Step 3: Collect the vehicle
Once you have the keys, you'll need to collect your car from a parking lot: carefully check that the vehicle condition report (provided at reception) matches the actual state of the car. If not, note what wasn't mentioned. Don't hesitate to take photos for proof.
Step 4: Return the vehicle
When returning the car, read carefully what's mentioned in your contract, namely the time limit, location, condition, fuel level, and cleanliness. Don't underestimate the latter point, as returning a dirty vehicle can be costly!
If you're returning the vehicle outside the agency's opening hours: take photos of it once parked in the lot (with a building or recognizable logo to prevent any disputes).
Good to know To save money, try to rent and return the vehicle at the same time. If you return it even an hour late, know that you'll be charged for an additional day! |
How do you drive in Ireland?
Driving
First and foremost: the Irish drive on the left. As for speed limits, these vary by zone. In the Republic of Ireland, for example, you can drive up to 120 km/h on the motorway, compared to only 110 km/h in Northern Ireland.
If you rent an electric car, you'll find charging points easily scattered around the island…
Motorways (called tolls)
The M50 ring road has a barrier-free eFlow toll system: instead of paying at a booth or automatic machine, the system records your journey (by photographing your license plate)
You must then, on your own initiative, pay online on the https://www.eflow.ie/ website or at one of the Payzone sales points, before 8:00 pm the next day!
The rest of the country has traditional tolls, except in Northern Ireland where there are no tolls. Motorways are free for drivers with reduced mobility.
Can you drive your own car in Ireland? Yes! If you absolutely must drive in Ireland and can't rent a vehicle, know that it's possible to travel with your own car. If you choose this option, you'll need to present your vehicle registration certificate, international motor insurance card (green card), and your driving license (regardless of issue date). |
Frequently asked questions
Most car rental agencies in Ireland require the driver to be at least 21 years old and hold their license for at least 2 years. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a 'young driver' surcharge. Check the agency's conditions before booking.
No, the vast majority of Irish car rental agencies require a credit card (not a debit card) for the deposit. If you don't have a credit card, you'll need to purchase additional insurance for around €30 per day, or you may not be able to rent a vehicle.
The excess (also called deposit or damage waiver) is generally between €1,500 and €3,000 depending on the agency and vehicle type. It's charged when you collect the vehicle and fully refunded within 15 days if the car is returned in good condition. You can avoid it by taking out no-excess insurance, but this is more expensive.
It depends on the rental agency. Some explicitly prohibit crossing the border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland with their vehicle. Read the terms and conditions carefully and mention your planned itinerary when booking to avoid any disputes.
Dublin's M50 ring road uses a barrier-free toll system called eFlow. Cameras automatically photograph your license plate. You must then pay online on the eflow.ie website or at a Payzone sales point before 8:00 pm the day after your journey, or face a fine.
No, a valid European driving license is sufficient to drive in Ireland. If you're from a country outside the European Union, an international driving permit may be required. Also ensure your license has been valid for at least 2 years to meet rental agency requirements.
