Ireland is one of those destinations where getting there is only half of the experience. The country's biggest attractions are not limited to its cities. Some of its most memorable places are found along winding coastal roads, beside quiet lakes, through green countryside, and in small towns that you might never encounter on a traditional guided tour.

For international travelers, renting a car can therefore be one of the best ways to experience Ireland. Having your own vehicle gives you the flexibility to leave Dublin, explore the countryside, stop at scenic viewpoints, visit historic towns, and build an itinerary around the places that interest you most.

Before getting behind the wheel, however, there is one important question for international visitors: Do you need an International Driving Permit in Ireland?

The answer depends on the driver's license and country of issue, as well as the circumstances of the trip. Ireland's Road Safety Authority explains that rental companies generally require a valid driving license from the country where the driver normally resides, while an International Driving Permit may be required in certain situations. The rental company should be contacted to confirm its precise requirements.

For international travelers, carrying an International Driving Permit together with a valid national driver's license is therefore a useful way to prepare for driving and renting a car in Ireland.

But the paperwork is only the beginning. Ireland has left-side traffic, kilometers-per-hour speed limits, narrow rural roads, roundabouts, changing weather, farm vehicles, and some spectacular routes that are best enjoyed at a relaxed pace.

Here is what tourists should know before starting an Irish road trip.

Do You Need an International Driving Permit in Ireland?

International visitors can drive in Ireland when they have the appropriate valid driving credentials for their situation. Whether an International Driving Permit is legally required depends on factors including the country that issued the driver's license.

The Road Safety Authority specifically advises tourists that most car rental companies require a driving license issued by the country where the driver normally resides, but that an International Driving Permit may be required in some circumstances. Travelers should confirm the exact requirements with their rental company before collecting the vehicle.

This makes an IDP an important document for international motorists to consider when planning an Irish road trip.

Why Should Tourists Carry an IDP in Ireland?

An International Driving Permit can be particularly useful for travelers whose national driving license is not easily understood by people unfamiliar with its language or format.

It can provide:

• Internationally recognizable driving information

• Additional documentation when renting a vehicle

• Easier communication regarding your driving credentials

• Useful supporting documentation when dealing with authorities

• Extra preparation for an international driving trip

The most important point is that the IDP should be carried alongside your original national driver's license.

An International Driving Permit is not a replacement for the license that authorizes you to drive. Think of the two documents as complementary.

A simple document checklist

Before traveling to Ireland, international drivers should have:

• Valid passport

• Valid national driver's license

• International Driving Permit, where applicable

• Rental-car documentation

• Insurance information

• Vehicle documentation supplied by the rental company

Having these documents organized before arriving at the rental counter can make the beginning of your road trip considerably easier.

Renting a Car in Ireland: What Tourists Should Know

Ireland has several airports and cities where travelers can begin a road trip.

Popular rental-car starting points include:

• Dublin Airport

• Cork Airport

• Shannon Airport

• Ireland West Airport Knock

• Kerry Airport

For travelers planning to spend several days exploring rural Ireland, collecting a car outside a busy city center can sometimes make the beginning of the trip more straightforward.

Choosing the Right Rental Car

The ideal vehicle depends on your itinerary.

Compact car

A small car can be particularly convenient for Ireland because some rural roads are surprisingly narrow.

Advantages include:

• Easier maneuverability

• Easier parking

• More comfortable on narrow roads

• Practical for couples

• Often sufficient for two or three travelers

SUV

An SUV can make sense for:

• Families

• Larger groups

• Travelers carrying substantial luggage

• Longer road trips

However, bigger does not always mean better on Irish country roads. A vehicle that feels spacious on a motorway may feel considerably less comfortable when two cars meet on a narrow rural lane.

Automatic transmission

Automatic cars are convenient for travelers who are unfamiliar with driving on the left or simply don't want to think about changing gears while navigating unfamiliar roads.

Manual transmission

Manual vehicles are also common, so travelers comfortable with manual driving may have more options.

Before leaving the rental location, inspect the car carefully.

Check:

• Tires

• Windshield

• Mirrors

• Lights

• Bodywork

• Existing scratches and dents

• Fuel level

• Brakes

• Spare equipment

• Charging ports

Take photographs of existing damage so you have a record of the vehicle's condition.

Driving in Ireland: Which Side of the Road Do You Drive On?

Ireland drives on the left-hand side of the road.

This is one of the first things tourists from right-hand-driving countries need to remember.

Vehicles generally have the steering wheel on the right, and traffic flows on the left.

The change can feel strange during the first few minutes, particularly when:

• Leaving the rental facility

• Turning onto a quiet road

• Exiting a parking area

• Entering a roundabout

• Making a right-hand turn

• Pulling out after stopping for fuel

A good strategy is to take the first part of your journey slowly. Don't worry about keeping up with traffic immediately. Give yourself time to become comfortable with the position of the vehicle.

Ireland's Roundabouts

Roundabouts are common throughout Ireland.

Remember:

• Traffic moves clockwise.

• Follow lane markings.

• Give way as required.

• Signal appropriately.

• Watch for cyclists and pedestrians.

• Don't change lanes suddenly.

If you're unfamiliar with left-side driving, roundabouts are one of the places where extra concentration is useful.

Irish Speed Limits Explained

Ireland uses kilometers per hour (km/h) rather than miles per hour.

The Road Safety Authority currently lists these general speed limits:

Road type	General maximum speed
Motorways	120 km/h
National roads	100 km/h
Regional roads	80 km/h
Urban areas	50 km/h
Special limits	30 km/h

Always follow the speed limit shown on road signs because local restrictions can differ.

For travelers used to miles per hour

The approximate conversions are:

• 30 km/h = 19 mph

• 50 km/h = 31 mph

• 80 km/h = 50 mph

• 100 km/h = 62 mph

• 120 km/h = 75 mph

One important point for tourists is that a road's posted maximum speed is not necessarily the speed you should actually maintain in every situation.

A narrow, wet, winding road may have a relatively high posted limit but still require considerably slower driving.

Drive according to the road and weather conditions.

Ireland's Road Types: From Motorways to Rural Lanes

Ireland has a wide variety of roads, and understanding the difference can help travelers plan their routes.

Motorways

Motorways are generally the easiest roads for covering longer distances.

They are useful when:

• Leaving Dublin

• Crossing between major regions

• Reaching a destination efficiently

• Traveling longer distances between scenic areas

National Roads

National roads connect major destinations and can offer a mixture of efficient travel and countryside scenery.

Regional Roads

These can become narrower and more winding, particularly as you get farther from major towns.

They can also be some of the most enjoyable roads for sightseeing.

Rural Roads

This is where driving in Ireland becomes a completely different experience.

Some country roads can be extremely narrow, with:

• Stone walls

• Grass edges

• Blind bends

• No hard shoulder

• Farm entrances

• Animals

• Tractors

• Oncoming traffic

The Road Safety Authority specifically warns tourists that many local roads are narrow and may not have a hard shoulder. It also advises drivers to be careful around farm vehicles and animals in rural areas.

Don't treat a narrow country road like a motorway simply because the road sign shows a relatively high speed limit.

Important Irish Driving Rules for Tourists

There are several rules international visitors should understand before driving.

Seat Belts

Seat belts are compulsory in both front and rear seats. Children also need appropriate child restraints or booster seats.

Mobile Phones

It is illegal to hold a mobile phone while driving.

If you need navigation, set your route before driving or use a suitable hands-free setup.

Drink Driving

Drink driving is treated very seriously in Ireland.

The simplest advice for tourists is:

If you're driving, don't drink.

Even if you think you are below a legal threshold, alcohol can affect concentration and reaction times on unfamiliar roads.

Driving on Rural Roads

Slow down when approaching:

• Blind bends

• Narrow bridges

• Farm entrances

• Pedestrians

• Cyclists

• Animals

• Oncoming vehicles

Don't feel pressured to drive at the maximum posted speed when the road does not allow it safely.

Driving in Ireland's Cities

Ireland's cities are worth visiting, but you may not always want your rental car while exploring their centers.

Dublin

Ireland's capital is home to:

• Trinity College

• Dublin Castle

• Phoenix Park

• Guinness Storehouse

• Museums

• Historic neighborhoods

For many travelers, it makes sense to explore central Dublin first and begin the road trip afterward.

City-center traffic and parking can be less convenient than simply walking or using public transportation.

Cork

Cork is a great base for exploring southern Ireland.

From here, you can reach:

• Kinsale

• Cobh

• Blarney

• West Cork

• Coastal routes

Galway

Galway is one of the best bases for western Ireland.

From the city, travelers can begin trips toward:

• Connemara

• Clifden

• The Burren

• Cliffs of Moher

• County Mayo

Limerick

Limerick provides access to western and southwestern Ireland and can be combined with routes toward County Clare and the Atlantic coast.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is ideal for travelers interested in:

• Medieval architecture

• Castles

• Historic streets

• Traditional pubs

• Irish history

Best Places to Visit in Ireland by Car

One of the biggest advantages of renting a car is that Ireland's most interesting destinations are not limited to its major cities.

Eastern Ireland

Consider visiting:

• Dublin

• Wicklow

• Kilkenny

• Waterford

• Rock of Cashel

This region is particularly useful for travelers who want to combine history with countryside scenery.

Southern Ireland

Popular destinations include:

• Cork

• Kinsale

• Cobh

• Killarney

• Kenmare

The south is a fantastic starting point for coastal road trips.

Western Ireland

The western region is ideal for travelers seeking dramatic landscapes.

Consider:

• Galway

• Clifden

• Doolin

• Westport

• Connemara

• The Burren

• Cliffs of Moher

Northern and Northwestern Ireland

For a quieter experience, consider:

• Sligo

• Donegal

• Letterkenny

• Malin Head

• Inishowen Peninsula

The farther north and west you travel, the more opportunities you have to experience rugged landscapes and quieter roads.

Best Scenic Drives in Ireland

Ireland's scenic routes are one of the strongest reasons to rent a car.

The Wild Atlantic Way

The Wild Atlantic Way stretches for approximately 2,500 kilometers along Ireland's western coastline, from Malin Head in County Donegal to Kinsale in County Cork. It passes through nine counties and includes some of the country's most famous coastal landscapes.

You don't need to drive the entire route.

Popular sections include:

• Donegal

• Sligo

• Mayo

• Galway

• Clare

• Kerry

• Cork

Highlights include:

• Cliffs of Moher

• Dingle Peninsula

• Ring of Kerry

• Connemara

• West Cork

• Achill Island

• Fanad Head

• The Burren

Because the entire route is so extensive, Tourism Ireland recommends allowing at least 10 days to explore the full Wild Atlantic Way, with two weeks providing an even more relaxed experience.

For shorter vacations, choose one section rather than trying to see everything.

Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland's classic road trips.

Possible stops include:

• Killarney

• Kenmare

• Sneem

• Waterville

• Cahersiveen

• Valentia Island

The route combines:

• Mountains

• Lakes

• Coastal scenery

• Small villages

• Historic sites

A two-day itinerary gives you more flexibility than trying to race around it in a few hours.

Dingle Peninsula

The Dingle Peninsula is another excellent choice.

A possible route includes:

Killarney → Inch Beach → Dingle → Slea Head → Dingle

Take time to stop rather than simply following the GPS from one point to another.

The road itself is part of the attraction.

Ring of Beara

If you want something less predictable than the busiest tourist routes, consider the Beara Peninsula.

Expect:

• Mountain landscapes

• Coastal roads

• Colorful villages

• Dramatic viewpoints

• Smaller roads

It is an excellent option for travelers who want a slower road trip.

Connemara

A route from Galway toward Clifden and Connemara can provide:

• Mountains

• Lakes

• Stone walls

• Small villages

• Coastal scenery

A possible itinerary is:

Galway → Oughterard → Kylemore Abbey → Clifden → Connemara → Galway

Ireland Road Trip Itineraries by Number of Days

Three-Day Ireland Road Trip

A short trip could focus on:

Dublin → Galway → Cliffs of Moher → Dublin

This gives you a taste of the west without trying to cover the entire country.

Five-Day Ireland Road Trip

Consider:

Dublin → Galway → Cliffs of Moher → Killarney → Cork → Dublin

This adds southwestern scenery while maintaining a manageable itinerary.

Seven-Day Ireland Road Trip

A stronger first-time itinerary could be:

Dublin → Galway → Connemara → Cliffs of Moher → Dingle → Killarney → Dublin

This route combines cities, Atlantic coastline, mountains, villages and national park scenery.

Ten-Day Ireland Road Trip

With more time, consider:

Dublin → Wicklow → Kilkenny → Cork → Killarney → Dingle → Galway → Connemara → Dublin

This provides a much broader view of the country.

Fourteen-Day Ireland Road Trip

Two weeks allows travelers to slow down and potentially add:

• Donegal

• Sligo

• Mayo

• West Cork

• Additional days in Kerry

• Northern Ireland

The key is not simply adding destinations. Add extra time to the destinations you already have.

How Long Does It Take to Drive Across Ireland?

Ireland looks relatively small on a map, but driving times can be deceptive.

A journey can take much longer than expected because of:

• Narrow roads

• Traffic

• Farm vehicles

• Roadworks

• Weather

• Town centers

• Scenic stops

• Photography

• Unexpected viewpoints

This is especially important on the western coast.

The official tourism guidance for the Wild Atlantic Way emphasizes that the route is designed for slower exploration rather than rushing from end to end.

A good rule for tourists is:

Don't measure your road trip only in kilometers. Measure it in experiences.

A 150-kilometer day can be far more tiring than expected if much of it is on winding rural roads.

How to Drive on Ireland's Narrow Rural Roads

This is one of the biggest adjustments for international visitors.

When approaching another vehicle:

• Slow down

• Stay controlled

• Look for a safe passing point

• Use pull-in areas where available

• Avoid forcing another driver onto an unsafe edge

Stone walls can sit very close to the road, leaving little room for error.

Blind bends require additional caution.

Slow down before the bend rather than entering quickly and braking suddenly once you see an oncoming vehicle.

You may also encounter:

• Sheep

• Cattle

• Horses

• Tractors

• Farm machinery

If an animal is on or near the road, reduce your speed significantly.

Weather and Driving Conditions in Ireland

Irish weather can change quickly, particularly along the Atlantic coast and in mountainous areas.

You may encounter:

• Rain

• Strong wind

• Fog

• Wet roads

• Reduced visibility

• Winter frost

• Occasional icy conditions

The Road Safety Authority notes that roads can become icy during winter and recommends staying informed about road conditions.

Driving in Heavy Rain

When it rains heavily:

• Slow down

• Increase your following distance

• Use appropriate lights

• Avoid sudden braking

• Watch for standing water

• Take extra care on rural roads

Driving in Fog

Fog can be particularly relevant around:

• Kerry

• Connemara

• Wicklow

• Donegal

• Mountainous areas

If visibility deteriorates, slow down and give yourself more time.

Parking in Ireland

Parking is generally easier in small towns than in major city centers, but tourists should always check signs.

In Dublin

Consider:

• Parking garages

• Hotel parking

• Park-and-ride options

• Leaving the vehicle outside the busiest center

In Galway and Cork

Central parking can become busy, especially during popular travel periods.

At Tourist Attractions

Use designated parking areas whenever possible.

Don't assume that an empty roadside area is automatically available for parking.

Best Apps for Driving in Ireland

Your smartphone can become one of the most useful tools on an Irish road trip.

Google Maps

Useful for:

• Navigation

• Restaurants

• Hotels

• Attractions

• Fuel stations

• Parking

Waze

Useful for:

• Traffic

• Road incidents

• Route adjustments

Apple Maps

Another option for navigation and finding nearby locations.

AA Roadwatch

Road-condition and traffic information can be useful when planning longer drives.

Weather Apps

Check the forecast before leaving for:

• Coastal drives

• Mountain routes

• Long road-trip days

• Hiking destinations

For Ireland, checking weather isn't just about deciding whether to bring an umbrella. It can influence the route you choose and how long you should expect to spend behind the wheel.

Fuel and Electric Charging in Ireland

Don't wait until the fuel tank is almost empty before looking for a station, especially when traveling through rural areas.

Before heading onto a long scenic route:

• Check your fuel level

• Locate fuel stations along the route

• Consider filling up before entering remote areas

For electric rental cars, check charging options in advance.

This is particularly important when planning long rural journeys where charging locations may be less frequent than in major cities.

What to Do If You Have an Accident or Breakdown

If your rental vehicle breaks down:

1. Move to a safe location if possible.

2. Turn on hazard lights.

3. Contact the rental company.

4. Follow the rental company's roadside assistance instructions.

5. Don't attempt repairs unless instructed.

If you are involved in an accident:

1. Stop.

2. Check whether anyone is injured.

3. Contact emergency services if necessary.

4. Contact your rental company.

5. Photograph the scene and vehicles.

6. Exchange relevant information.

7. Follow the rental company's accident procedure.

Emergency Numbers in Ireland

Save these numbers before your road trip:

• 112 — European emergency number

• 999 — emergency services

Having emergency information already saved is much easier than trying to find it after an incident.

Driving in Ireland at Night

Driving after dark isn't necessarily something tourists need to avoid completely, but rural nighttime driving can be challenging.

Potential issues include:

• Narrow lanes

• Poor visibility

• Animals

• Cyclists

• Sharp bends

• Fog

• Lack of street lighting

• Unfamiliar roads

For long scenic journeys, try to make the most of daylight.

If you are staying somewhere outside a major town, plan to arrive before dark when possible.

What Should You Pack for an Irish Road Trip?

A few simple items can make the trip more comfortable.

Consider packing:

• Phone charger

• Car phone mount

• Power bank

• Waterproof jacket

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sunglasses

• Reusable water bottle

• Small first-aid kit

• Offline maps

• Accommodation information

The waterproof jacket is particularly important.

Ireland can give you sunshine, clouds and rain in the same afternoon, especially along the Atlantic coast.

How to Make an Irish Road Trip More Enjoyable

One of the biggest mistakes tourists make is trying to see too much.

You might see an itinerary online containing ten attractions and think you need to visit every one.

You don't.

A better road trip might involve:

• Two major attractions

• One scenic route

• Several spontaneous stops

• A long lunch

• A walk

• Time in a local town

Ireland rewards slower travel.

You might discover a viewpoint that wasn't on your itinerary. You might find a quiet beach. You might decide to stay longer in a village because you like the atmosphere.

That's one of the great advantages of having your own rental car.

You don't have to leave simply because the tour bus is leaving.

Should You Rent a Car in Ireland or Use Public Transportation?

Both options can work, depending on your trip.

A Rental Car Is Best For:

• Countryside exploration

• Scenic road trips

• Families

• Flexible itineraries

• Remote attractions

• Coastal routes

• Travelers who enjoy independent travel

Advantages

• Freedom

• Flexibility

• Access to rural areas

• Easy multi-stop itineraries

• Ability to change plans

Disadvantages

• Parking

• Fuel costs

• Traffic

• Left-side driving

• Narrow roads

• Navigation

Public Transportation May Be Better For:

• Dublin city breaks

• Travelers staying mainly in major cities

• Short business trips

• Visitors who don't want to drive abroad

If the primary purpose of your trip is exploring Ireland's countryside, however, a rental car can provide considerably more freedom.

Common Mistakes Tourists Make When Driving in Ireland

Avoid these common problems:

1. Forgetting that Ireland drives on the left

2. Confusing kilometers with miles

3. Driving too quickly on narrow roads

4. Underestimating rural driving times

5. Planning too many attractions in one day

6. Ignoring weather conditions

7. Driving unfamiliar country roads at night

8. Forgetting to check rental-car requirements

9. Carrying an IDP without the original license

10. Running low on fuel

11. Ignoring parking signs

12. Forgetting about farm vehicles

13. Holding a mobile phone while driving

14. Not allowing enough time for scenic stops

15. Choosing a vehicle that is unnecessarily large for narrow rural roads

Frequently Asked Questions About Driving in Ireland With an IDP

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Ireland?

It depends on the country that issued your driving license and your circumstances. Ireland's Road Safety Authority states that an IDP may be required in some situations and advises travelers to confirm the exact requirements with their rental company.

Can I rent a car in Ireland with a foreign driver's license?

International visitors can rent vehicles subject to the applicable licensing and rental requirements. Check the rental company's specific documentation requirements before collecting your vehicle.

Should I carry an IDP when driving in Ireland?

For international travelers, carrying an International Driving Permit alongside the original national driver's license can be useful additional documentation, particularly where the license may be difficult to interpret or an IDP is required.

Does an IDP replace my national driver's license?

No. Carry the IDP together with your original valid driver's license.

Which side of the road does Ireland drive on?

Ireland drives on the left-hand side.

What are the speed limits in Ireland?

General limits include 120 km/h on motorways, 100 km/h on national roads, 80 km/h on regional roads, 50 km/h in urban areas and 30 km/h in certain special-limit areas. Always follow posted signs.

Are Irish speed limits in kilometers or miles?

Kilometers per hour. This is important for travelers from countries that use miles per hour.

Is driving in Ireland difficult for tourists?

It can take some adjustment, particularly if you normally drive on the right. Rural roads can also be narrow and winding. However, taking your time and understanding the local rules can make the experience much easier.

What are the best scenic drives in Ireland?

Popular choices include:

• Wild Atlantic Way

• Ring of Kerry

• Dingle Peninsula

• Ring of Beara

• Connemara

• Wicklow

• West Cork

• Donegal

Can I drive the Wild Atlantic Way?

Yes, but don't try to rush the entire route. The Wild Atlantic Way covers approximately 2,500 kilometers, and Ireland's official tourism guidance recommends at least 10 days for the full route, with longer being preferable.

How long does it take to drive around Ireland?

That depends heavily on your route. Ireland may look small on a map, but rural roads, scenic stops and weather can significantly increase travel time.

Is it better to rent a car in Dublin or outside the city?

If you plan to spend several days sightseeing in central Dublin, it can be convenient to explore the city first and begin your rental-car portion afterward. If you are immediately heading into the countryside, collecting a car at or near your arrival airport may be more practical.

What apps are best for driving in Ireland?

Google Maps, Waze, Apple Maps, weather apps and road-condition services such as AA Roadwatch can all be useful.

Can I drive in Ireland at night?

Yes, but unfamiliar rural roads can be more difficult after dark because of limited lighting, narrow lanes, animals and reduced visibility. For longer scenic drives, daylight is preferable.

What should I do if my rental car breaks down?

Move to a safe position if possible, use your hazard lights, contact the rental company and follow its roadside assistance instructions.

Final Ireland Driving Checklist

Before Leaving Home

• Valid passport

• Valid national driver's license

• International Driving Permit, where applicable

• Rental reservation

• Insurance information

• Navigation app

• Weather app

• Emergency numbers

Before Collecting Your Car

• Photograph existing damage

• Check tires

• Check lights

• Check mirrors

• Check fuel

• Confirm transmission

• Confirm rental documentation

• Save the rental company's emergency number

Before a Long Road Trip

• Check the weather

• Check traffic

• Check your fuel level

• Check the route

• Check parking

• Download offline maps

• Allow extra time

While Driving

• Drive on the left

• Follow posted speed limits

• Wear seat belts

• Don't hold a phone

• Watch for animals

• Watch for farm traffic

• Slow down on narrow roads

• Take breaks

• Leave time for unexpected stops

How to Obtain an IDP

Obtaining an International Driver's Permit is a simple process that can help you drive legally while traveling abroad. Follow these general steps to apply:

• Confirm Your Eligibility: Before applying for an International Driver's Permit, make sure you have a valid driver's license issued by your home country, state, or local licensing authority. A valid national driver's license is one of the most important requirements.

• Fill Out the Application: Access the required application form through the following page: https://internationalpermit.com/pages/apply-for-the-international-driving-permit

• Pay the Required Fees: Complete the payment for your IDL application. The applicable cost can depend on the processing option and issuing authority.

• Submit Your Documents: Send the completed application form together with any required supporting documents according to the provided instructions.

• Receive Your Permit: After your application has been reviewed and approved, your International Driver's License will be issued and delivered.

When driving internationally, always keep your International Driving Permit with your original, valid driver's license. Check that all personal information on your permit corresponds with your driver's license. After completing the application form and preparing the necessary documents, submit everything with the applicable payment.

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Cost of an International Driver's License

The costs of obtaining an International Driver's License are the following:

1 YEAR VALIDITY: USD 29,99
2 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 44,99
3 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 59,99

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USPS 6-10 DAYS: FREE
EXPRESS 3-4 DAYS : USD 15
OVERNIGHT 2-3 DAYS: USD 35

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
EXPRESS INTERNATIONAL 4-8 DAYS : USD 45

As of 2025

Before applying for an IDP, it's essential to check the fee schedule on the official website https://www.internationalpermit.com/pages/pricing-for-the-international-drivers-document

Explore Ireland by Car With the Right Preparation

Ireland is an excellent destination for an independent road trip because so much of the country's character is found outside its major cities.

A rental car can take you from Dublin's historic streets to the Wicklow Mountains, from Galway to Connemara, from the Cliffs of Moher to the Dingle Peninsula, and from Killarney into some of the most spectacular landscapes along Ireland's Atlantic coast.

For international travelers, preparing the right driving documentation is an important part of the process. Your valid national driver's license is fundamental, and depending on your country of issue and circumstances, an International Driving Permit can provide useful additional documentation for driving and renting a car in Ireland.

Carry your documents together, understand the local rules, and confirm the precise requirements of your rental company before your trip.

Once you're on the road, remember the essentials:

• Ireland drives on the left.

• Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour.

• Rural roads can be much narrower than expected.

• Farm vehicles and animals can appear unexpectedly.

• Weather can change quickly.

• Driving times can be longer than distances suggest.

• The most scenic routes are best enjoyed without rushing.

Most importantly, don't turn an Irish road trip into a race.

The beauty of driving through Ireland is being able to stop when you see something interesting. Pull over at a viewpoint. Explore a small village. Walk along a beach. Have lunch in a town you didn't originally plan to visit. Spend an extra hour at a castle or scenic overlook.

The road is part of the destination.

With the appropriate driving documents, a well-planned rental car, a little patience and enough time to enjoy the journey, international visitors can experience Ireland in a way that simply isn't possible when every movement is tied to a fixed schedule.