Car rental in Ireland

Ireland Car Hire

Find your rental car from 48+ providers. We show the real price — no surprises at the counter.

Drive onLeft
MotorwayUp to 120 km/h
Alcohol limit0,5 ‰
Min. ageUsually 21+
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✅ Compare total price & terms ⚡ Quick search — 30 seconds 🧾 Transparent conditions ⭐ Book with confidence

Driving in Ireland — Rules & Tips

🚦 Traffic Rules

  • Drive on: Left
  • City speed: 50 km/h
  • Rural roads: 80 km/h
  • Motorway: up to 120 km/h
  • Alcohol limit: 0,5 ‰
  • Emergency: 112

🪪 Pickup & Requirements

  • ID + license: always required
  • Deposit: usually required
  • Credit card: commonly needed
  • Fuel policy: full-to-full is standard
  • Tolls/fees: may apply
  • Winter: plan for weather conditions

💸 Save Money

  • Book 2–4 weeks ahead for the best rates.
  • Compare the total price — not just the headline number.
  • Choose full-to-full fuel to avoid hidden charges.
  • Film the car at pickup. Seriously — it takes 30 seconds.

About Renting a Car in Ireland

Three things that make the biggest difference for price, peace of mind and zero hassle.

Total Price & Terms

Compare excess amounts, fuel policies and what's actually included. A cheap headline rate can turn expensive at the counter if you're not careful.

Insurance

Check what's covered and how high the excess is. The right level of protection often costs less than an unpleasant surprise at drop-off.

Right Pickup Point

Airport, city center or station — pick the location that saves you time. Time is money, especially on holiday.

Find Your Pickup Point

City & Station Locations (42)

Dublin Center City Center · 9 companies
Dublin Phibsborough City Center · 8 companies
Cork Center City Center · 6 companies
Dublin City North City Center · 5 companies
Limerick City Ennis Road City Center · 5 companies
Waterford Center City Center · 5 companies
Dublin City South City Center · 4 companies
Dublin Saint Catherine's City Center · 4 companies
Galway Center City Center · 4 companies
Wexford Center City Center · 4 companies
Athlone Center City Center · 3 companies
Cavan Center City Center · 3 companies
Cork Kent Train Station City Center · 3 companies
Drogheda Center City Center · 3 companies
Dublin Sallynoggin City Center · 3 companies
Dublin Stephen's Green City Center · 3 companies
County Kilkenny Center City Center · 3 companies
Letterkenny Center City Center · 3 companies
Naas Center City Center · 3 companies
County Sligo Center City Center · 3 companies
Castlebridge Center City Center · 2 companies
Clonmel Center City Center · 2 companies
Limerick Center City Center · 2 companies
Navan Center City Center · 2 companies
Tallaght Center City Center · 2 companies
Castlebar Center City Center · 1 companies
Cork Mallow Road City Center · 1 companies
Cork South City Center · 1 companies
Dublin City West City Center · 1 companies
Dublin North Wall City Center · 1 companies
Dublin Saint James City Center · 1 companies
Dublin Sandyford City Center · 1 companies
Dublin South Lotts City Center · 1 companies
Dublin Turnapin Great City Center · 1 companies
Dublin Woodpark City Center · 1 companies
Ennis South City Center · 1 companies
Killarney Center City Center · 1 companies
Port Laoise Center City Center · 1 companies
Swords Center City Center · 1 companies
Tralee Center City Center · 1 companies
Waterford Adamstown City Center · 1 companies
Waterford Coolgower City Center · 1 companies

Frequently Asked Questions — About Renting a Car in Ireland

What do I need to rent a car in Ireland?+
A valid driver's license and photo ID are always required. Most providers also ask for a credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit. Check age requirements and payment terms before you book.
Can I rent without a credit card?+
Some providers accept debit cards, but it's not guaranteed. Many require a credit card for the deposit. Filter by payment options when comparing, and always double-check the fine print.
What does 'full-to-full' fuel policy mean?+
You collect the car with a full tank and return it full. This is typically the simplest and most cost-effective option — and it avoids fuel surcharges at drop-off.
How does insurance and excess work?+
Basic insurance (CDW) is usually included, but the excess — the amount you'd pay in case of damage — can be high. Compare what's covered, especially for glass, tires and underbody damage.
Can I pick up in one city and return in another?+
Yes — one-way rentals are widely available. An extra fee often applies, so always check the total cost before booking.
What's the cancellation policy?+
It depends on the provider and booking type. Many offer free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup. Always confirm the terms in your booking confirmation.

More to Consider When Renting in Ireland

✈️ Airport vs City Pickup

Airport desks often have more providers and longer hours. City locations can be more convenient if you're staying centrally — but parking costs add up. Compare both options before deciding.

❄️ Winter Driving

Weather in Ireland can change fast. Make sure the car has appropriate tires for the season and check what roadside assistance is included. On longer trips, pay extra attention to insurance cover.

↔️ One-Way Rentals

Picking up in one city and dropping off in another can work brilliantly — but it may cost extra. Check the "one-way fee" before confirming so there are no surprises on the bill.

Found what you need?

48+ locations across Ireland. Enter your dates and see what's on offer.

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