Car rental at Dublin Airport

Dublin Airport Car Hire (DUB)

Check live prices from 14 providers at the terminal. Pick up your keys and hit the road — no queues, no stress.

LocationAirport
Providers14
Price tipBook 2–4 wks ahead
Min. ageUsually 21+
✅ 14 providers compared ⚡ Results in 30 seconds 🧾 No hidden fees ⭐ Free cancellation

Quick answer: At Dublin Airport you can compare rental cars from 14 providers. We show prices and terms upfront so you can choose wisely — not just cheaply.

Best priceBook 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and lower rates.
Zero dramaChoose "full-to-full" fuel and film the car at pickup.
DepositHave a credit card in the driver's name ready — that's where most people get caught out.

About Renting a Car at Dublin Airport

Dublin Airport (DUB) is Ireland's largest car rental hub with 14 rental companies and one of the broadest selections in all of northern Europe. The airport is located 10 km north of Dublin city center via M1/M50 and is the natural starting point for an Ireland road trip with a rental car. From Dublin Airport, you can reach the city center in 25–35 minutes via M1 and Port Tunnel.

Malahide Castle is just 8 km east and is a perfect first stop before heading north towards Belfast (160 km, 1.5 hours) or west towards Galway (230 km, 2.5 hours). Pick up your car immediately upon arrival – car rental desks are located in the arrivals hall of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Avoid driving into Dublin city center unless necessary – take the M50 around the city directly to your destination.

Check whether your rental company requires advance notification for driving in Northern Ireland. Where are the car rental desks at Dublin Airport? Car rental desks are located in the arrivals hall of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

Vehicles are picked up at a separate car park near the terminals. How long does it take to drive from Dublin Airport to Ring of Kerry? Ring of Kerry is approximately 330 km south via M7 and N22, roughly 3.5–4 hours of driving.

What are the best rental companies at Dublin Airport? There are 14 rental companies at DUB, including international chains and local operators. Compare prices and terms on rental car websites to find the best offer.

We compare prices from all major providers at Dublin Airport so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Your 2-Minute Guide to Renting at Dublin Airport

🚗 1) Pick the Right Terms

  • Fuel: "Full-to-full" is usually the fairest deal.
  • Extra driver: can cost extra — check before booking.
  • Automatic: often pricier and in shorter supply.
Pro tip: Cheapest rate + expensive terms = an expensive rental in disguise.

🪪 2) Bring the Right Documents

  • Driver's license (usually held for at least 1 year)
  • Passport or national ID
  • Credit card in the driver's name for the deposit
A valid license is accepted in most of Ireland. Check if an IDP is needed.

📸 3) Drama-Free Pickup

  • Film the car from all angles + the dashboard.
  • Photograph scratches, wheels and windshield.
  • Keep your fuel receipt when returning.
60 seconds now can save 6 weeks of email disputes.

Rental Companies at Dublin Airport

Providers you can compare here (availability varies by date and season).

Thrifty
Easirent
Budget
Alamo
Keddy
Car Hire
Enterprise
Hertz
Dollar
Avis
National
Europcar
Flizzr
SIXT

Essential Info for Renting at Dublin Airport

Practical answers and tips before you book.

✅ Quick Answers

At Dublin Airport you can compare rentals from 14 providers on SmartCarRental. We show prices and terms upfront so you know what you're paying.

  • Book 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and prices.
  • Choose "full-to-full" fuel whenever possible.
  • Have a credit card in the driver's name ready for the deposit.
🚙 Driving in Ireland

In Ireland you drive on the Left side.

  • Urban speed limit: 50 km/h
  • Rural roads: 80 km/h
  • Motorway: 120 km/h
  • Alcohol limit: 0,5 ‰
🅿️ Parking & Tolls

Parking is available in cities, but can be expensive.

Road tolls: Have cash or card ready for betalning.

Frequently Asked Questions — Car Rental at Dublin Airport

Which rental companies are available at Dublin Airport?
You can compare 14 rental companies at Dublin Airport on SmartCarRental. Availability varies by season and dates, so the best way to see current options is to search with your travel dates.
Do I need an international driving permit in Ireland?
Requirements depend on your home country. EU, US and UK licenses are generally accepted, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license isn't in Latin script.
→ Read more in our guide
Is there an age limit for renting a car at Dublin Airport?
The minimum age to rent in Ireland is typically 21 years. Drivers under 25 often pay an additional young driver surcharge.
→ Read more in our guide
What are the traffic rules in Ireland?
In Ireland you drive on the Left side. Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads and 120 km/h on motorways.
→ Read more in our guide
What do I need to bring for pickup?
When collecting your car at Dublin Airport you'll typically need: 1) A valid driver's license (held for at least 1 year), 2) Passport or national ID, and 3) A credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit.
→ Read more in our guide
How does the fuel policy work?
Most providers at Dublin Airport use a "full-to-full" policy: you pick up the car with a full tank and return it full. This is typically the simplest and cheapest option.
→ Read more in our guide
When is it cheapest to rent a car at Dublin Airport?
Generally, booking 2–4 weeks in advance, choosing a mid-week pickup, and avoiding peak season gives you the lowest prices.
→ Read more in our guide

15-Day Weather Forecast for Dublin

Other Rental Locations Near Dublin Airport

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