Requirements for Renting a Car in Ireland: What Tourists Need to Know

Renting a car in Ireland is one of the best ways to explore the country’s dramatic coastlines, rolling green hills, and charming villages at your own pace. Public transportation in Ireland is decent in major cities, but if you want to experience the Wild Atlantic Way, the Ring of Kerry, or hidden gems in rural counties, having your own vehicle is essential.

However, renting a car in Ireland comes with specific requirements that every tourist should know in advance. Overlooking these rules could mean delays, unexpected costs, or even being denied a rental. In this guide, I’ll share the official requirements, real-world tips, and my own experience renting cars in Ireland as a visitor.

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Why This Matters Today

With the rise of budget airlines and an increasing number of international tourists visiting Ireland (over 7 million visitors in 2023, according to Tourism Ireland), car rentals remain in high demand. At the same time, many travelers face challenges like unexpected insurance costs, strict license rules, and young driver surcharges. Being well-prepared ensures you avoid stress and enjoy your trip.

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Core Requirements for Renting a Car in Ireland

1. Age Requirements

• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old.
• The standard age is 25–75.
• Drivers under 25 or over 70 may face:
  • Extra surcharges (young or senior driver fees).
  • Limited car categories (no premium vehicles).
• Example: When I rented in Cork at age 27, I had no restrictions, but a younger friend (22) had to pay around €25 extra per day.

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2. Driver’s License Rules

• Valid driver’s license from your home country is required.
• Must be held for at least 1–2 years (varies by company).
• International Driving Permit (IDP):
  • Required if your license is not in English.
  • For U.S., Canada, UK, and EU licenses – generally not required.
• Provisional or learner permits are not accepted.

Tip: Some rental agents are very strict. I once saw an American traveler turned away in Dublin because his license didn’t have a photo card. Always bring your full, official license.

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3. Credit Card Requirement

• A credit card in the main driver’s name is mandatory.
• It’s used for holding a security deposit (can range from €1,500–€3,000 depending on the vehicle and insurance coverage).
• Debit cards are rarely accepted, and prepaid cards are almost always refused.

Example: In Shannon Airport, my deposit hold was €2,000, which was released a week after I returned the car in good condition.

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4. Insurance Requirements

Insurance in Ireland can be tricky, and it’s one of the biggest pain points for tourists.

• CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) is mandatory. You can:
  • Buy it from the rental company.
  • Provide proof of coverage from your credit card (e.g., many Visa and Mastercard cards).
• Rental companies often insist on written proof if you decline their insurance.
• Super CDW (reduces deductible to €0) is optional but recommended, especially given Ireland’s narrow, hedge-lined rural roads.

Note: I once declined the extra insurance in Galway and had a minor scratch charge of €650. Since then, I always go for the extra coverage.

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5. Documents You’ll Need

When picking up your car, expect to show:

• Valid driver’s license (plus IDP if applicable).
• Passport (for ID verification).
• Credit card in driver’s name.
• Rental confirmation voucher.
• Proof of insurance (if declining CDW).

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6. Fuel Policies & Payment

• Most companies operate a full-to-full fuel policy.
• Keep fuel receipts, especially if you refuel near the airport — some agencies demand proof.

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Costs and Hidden Requirements

Here’s a quick breakdown of potential costs and conditions:

Requirement	Typical Rule	Extra Costs
Minimum Age	21–25	€25–40/day surcharge under 25
Maximum Age	70–75	Possible restrictions/surcharge
License Duration	1–2 years	Denial if less
Credit Card Hold	€1,500–€3,000	Refund after return
Insurance (CDW)	Mandatory	€15–30/day if not covered
IDP (if needed)	Yes	~€20–30 in your home country

Practical Tips for Tourists

• Book in advance: Last-minute rentals at airports are often 40–60% more expensive.
• Consider smaller cars: Irish roads are narrow, especially in the countryside. A compact car is much easier to manage.
• Check for hidden fees: Additional drivers, GPS, and child seats come with extra costs.
• Photograph the car: Always take photos of dents or scratches before driving away.
• Driving style: Remember, in Ireland, driving is on the left side of the road. Roundabouts and rural lanes can be tricky for first-timers.

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FAQs

1. Can I rent a car in Ireland with a U.S. license?
Yes, U.S. licenses are widely accepted. An IDP is not required unless your license is not in English.

2. Is insurance included in the rental price?
Basic CDW is often included but with a high deductible. You’ll usually pay extra for reduced-excess insurance.

3. Do I really need a credit card?
Yes, almost all companies require it. Some allow debit cards, but only with expensive full insurance packages.

4. Can I drive to Northern Ireland?
Yes, but inform the rental company. Some charge a small cross-border fee.

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Final Thoughts

Renting a car in Ireland as a tourist isn’t difficult once you understand the requirements and hidden conditions. The main things to remember are:

• Be at least 25 (or prepare for surcharges).
• Bring your full driver’s license (and IDP if necessary).
• Have a credit card for deposit.
• Know your insurance coverage before you arrive.

Personally, renting a car in Ireland has allowed me to discover places I would have never reached by bus or train — from quiet cliff walks in Donegal to cozy pubs in small Kerry towns. As long as you prepare, the freedom of driving in Ireland is worth it.

👉 If you’re planning a trip and still have questions about requirements or practical tips for renting in Ireland, feel free to ask — I’m happy to share my experience.