Renting a Car in Ireland in 2024: A Full Guide
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If you’re planning to drive from Dublin to Galway, or perhaps explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Wild Atlantic Way, renting a car in Ireland offers unmatched freedom to discover the country at your own pace. This guide provides comprehensive information on how to rent a car in Ireland, what to expect while driving, and essential tips to enhance your driving experience. From understanding local driving laws and finding the best rental deals to navigating the scenic yet sometimes challenging Irish roads, this guide will equip you with all the necessary knowledge to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Do I need a car in Ireland?
Whether you rent a car or not depends on what you want to do in Ireland. If you plan to visit major tourist destinations like Dublin, Galway, the Cliffs of Moher, or Killarney, you can easily find tour groups that will take you to these areas by bus.
However, if you wanted to discover more of Ireland or wanted to travel at your own pace then a rental car is ideal! I chose to drive in Ireland to truly immerse myself in the country and visit places that a tour bus wouldn’t reach—the beautiful, uncrowded hidden gems of the island. While Ireland has plenty of public transportation, it wouldn’t take me to the places I wanted to explore.
A car also allows you to explore some of the best road trips in Europe. The Wild Atlantic Way is one of the most famous and my personal favorite Irish road trip. Stretching from Kinsale in West Cork to Donegal, it spans 2,500 km, making it the longest coastal driving route in the world. Another drive I love is the breathtaking Ring of Kerry, which is 180 km long and begins in Killarney, one of Ireland’s must-visit towns. Essential stops along the Ring of Kerry include Killarney National Park, Glenbeigh, Caherdaniel, Sneem, and Kenmare.
Where Should I Rent My Car from?
Renting a car from the airport is the most convenient option. You can rent a car from Shannon Airport, Cork Airport, Kerry Airport, and major cities like Dublin and Galway.
I recommend using Discover Cars to search and compare rental options. I always use their website to book rental cars for the best prices. You can search multiple companies and find the best rates online.
Renting a Car in Ireland: Insurance Explained
Unlike in many other countries, you must purchase Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) insurance in Ireland. Most credit cards do not include CDW insurance for Ireland, so you’ll need to buy it when renting a car there. Typically, rental cars in Ireland come with a basic CDW, but this isn’t true insurance. It only covers up to €1,000-3,000 worth of damage and doesn’t include tire, cracked windshield, or undercarriage damage. This amount is held on your credit card until you return the car undamaged.
Excess Damage/Super Damage (Super Collision Damage Waiver) insurance is an additional cost but covers minor damages such as scratches, dents, and small bumps, which are common on Ireland’s roads. Even if you are an exceptionally careful driver, Ireland’s roads can still cause damage to your car. The roads can be incredibly narrow, and you’re likely to encounter rocks, debris, and branches.
Your Credit Card Company May Cover CDW Insurance
While you can often save money by booking with a travel credit card that includes car rental insurance, it’s crucial to read the fine print. Many people mistakenly believe their card covers them in Ireland when it doesn’t. If you decline full coverage, get into an accident, and discover your credit card doesn’t cover the damage, you’ll be in a tough spot. I’ve heard countless travel horror stories about this.
Car rental agencies may also ask you to prove that your credit card covers car rental insurance. To prepare for this, you can call your credit card company ahead of time and request they email you a letter verifying this coverage.
Do you need an International Driver’s License to Rent a Car in Ireland?
If you have a valid driving license issued by an EU or EEA country, you can rent a car in Ireland without needing an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). If your driving license is issued by a country outside the EU or EEA, you can use your home country’s driving license for renting a car in Ireland. However, it is recommended to have an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) if your original license is not in English.
What size car should I rent in Ireland?
Opt for a small car if possible, as the roads in Ireland are very narrow. This will also help you save on fuel costs, as gas prices are high. However, ensure the car you choose can accommodate everyone in your party, as well as your luggage. Some compact cars can be quite small, so make sure they’ll fit you and your belongings.
Our rental car wasn’t the smallest option available, but it comfortably fit two suitcases and carry-on bags in the trunk. When selecting your rental car, the rental agency will typically specify how many people can fit in the car and how much luggage the trunk can hold.
Toll Roads in Ireland
Ireland has several toll roads, primarily located on major motorways and key routes across the country. These toll roads help maintain and improve the national road network, ensuring smoother and faster travel for drivers. The most notable toll roads include the M50 around Dublin, which is the busiest and most significant, and other major motorways like the M1, M6, M7, and M8.
The M50, Dublin’s ring road, operates an electronic barrier-free tolling system known as eFlow. There are no physical toll booths on this road; instead, cameras capture your vehicle’s license plate, and the toll must be paid either online, by phone, or at designated retail outlets before 8 PM the following day. Failure to pay on time results in significant fines.
Other toll roads in Ireland typically use traditional toll plazas where you can pay with cash or card. These plazas are well-marked, and the fees are generally between €1.90 and €3.10 for cars, depending on the specific road. It’s advisable to carry some change or have a contactless payment option available when traveling on these routes.
For frequent users, many toll roads offer a tag system, where you can affix an electronic tag to your windshield that automatically deducts the toll fee as you pass through. This system is convenient for regular commuters and helps avoid delays at toll plazas.
Age Requirements For Renting A Car in Ireland
The minimum legal driving age in Ireland is 18, but most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old to rent a car. Additionally, they often impose an extra fee for drivers under 24 years old.