Frequently Asked Questions | FAQ's
1. What do I need to rent a car in Ireland?
You must be at least 21 years old to rent a car in Ireland, though this can vary by rental company. You will need a valid driver's license from your home country, proof of insurance (if not purchasing from the rental company), and a credit card for the security deposit. If your license is not in English, you may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
2. Is it mandatory to have insurance for a rental car in Ireland?
Yes, you must have basic insurance coverage for any car rental in Ireland. This usually includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection. However, these may come with a high excess fee, which you can reduce by purchasing additional coverage from the rental company or a third party.
3. Can I drive a rented car into Northern Ireland?
Typically, you can drive a rental car from the Republic of Ireland into Northern Ireland without additional charges or special permission from the rental car company. However, it's always best to inform the rental agency of your travel plans, as policies may vary, and there might be insurance considerations.
4. What is the average cost of renting a car in Ireland?
The cost of renting a car in Ireland can vary significantly based on the time of year, type of vehicle, rental duration, and insurance choices. Prices can start from as low as €15 per day for a small car during off-peak seasons to over €100 per day for a larger or luxury vehicle with complete cover insurance during peak tourist season.
5. Are automatic transmission cars available for rent in Ireland?
Yes, while manual transmission cars are more common in Ireland, automatic cars are available for rent. However, they typically cost more than their manual counterparts and may be less readily available, so it’s advisable to book well in advance if you prefer an automatic car.
6. What should I know about driving in Ireland?
In Ireland, you drive on the left side of the road, and seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on regional roads, 100 km/h on national roads, and 120 km/h on motorways. Speeds are posted in kilometers per hour, and rural roads can be narrow and winding. Always be aware of weather conditions, as they can change quickly.
7. Is it possible to rent a car in Ireland with a debit card?
Most car rental companies in Ireland require a credit card for the security deposit. However, some companies may accept a debit card with a Visa or MasterCard logo, but there could be additional requirements, such as proof of return flight and comprehensive insurance coverage. Always check with the rental company for their specific policies regarding debit cards.
8. Can I pick up and return my rental car outside business hours?
Many rental car companies in Ireland offer out-of-hours pick-up and return services at airports and sometimes at major city locations. This service may come with an additional fee, and arrangements should be made in advance with the rental company.
9. Is it required to return the rental car with a full tank?
Most rental companies in Ireland operate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you pick up the car with a full tank and are expected to return it full. If you return the car with less fuel, the rental company will charge you for the missing fuel at a premium rate, along with a refueling fee.
10. Are there any toll roads in Ireland, and how do I pay for them?
There are several toll roads in Ireland, including the M50 motorway which operates an electronic toll system. For most tolls, you can pay at booths on the road. The M50 toll, however, requires you to pay online by 8 pm the following day to avoid a fine. Rental car companies can provide a system for paying this toll automatically, often with an additional service fee.
