Car Rental in Ireland for Danish Travelers

Embarking on a journey through Ireland can be both an adventure and a logistical puzzle. Whether it's navigating scenic routes, understanding local traffic norms, or selecting the right rental vehicle, preparation is key.
If you're traveling from Denmark, key questions might include:

Do I need an international driving permit (IDP)?
What car insurance options are recommended?
How much does it generally cost?
What should I know about driving on the left side of the road?
Are there toll roads, and how do I pay?

This comprehensive resource answers all these questions, providing you with the confidence to explore Ireland's breathtaking landscapes. Additionally, a summarized checklist is included for quick reference before you start your trip.

Can Danish Citizens Drive in Ireland?

Yes, Danish travelers can legally drive in Ireland with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

Form of ID:
A valid passport.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
• EU/EEA Driving License
Notes: North Korean driving licenses were not accepted for insurance purposes.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, Discover, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 21 and 80 years old. For drivers aged 21-24, additional fees may apply (To be confirmed).

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Choose from trusted global chains or innovative local alternatives. Each offers different advantages for Danish travelers in Ireland.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
39
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
125
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Extensive network across 140 countries
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Loyalty program with discounts
- Easy online booking system
Best for
Leisure travelers and corporate rentals
SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
47
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide selection of vehicles
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Mobile app for easy booking
Best for
Travelers seeking quality and flexibility
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
25
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Enterprise
global
8.5
Locations:
139
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Flexible rental options
- Free pickup service
- Rewards program for frequent renters
- Comprehensive insurance options
Best for
Leisure travelers and business trips
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
62
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Keddy by Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
80
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Easy online booking
- Nationwide coverage
- Customer service support
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
PAYLESS
global
8.5
Locations:
21
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible rental options
- User-friendly booking process
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
FLIZZR
global
8.5
Locations:
13
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Convenient locations in major cities
- 24/7 customer support
- Easy online booking
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and those seeking flexibility

Easirent
local
8.5
Locations:
7
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Affordable pricing
- Wide range of vehicle options
- Excellent customer service
- Convenient locations
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families

Recommendations for Danish Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

First time renting in Ireland
Need reliable nationwide coverage
Want 24/7 customer support
Business or important travel

Choose Local Brands If:

Want to save money
Focusing travel in urban areas
Seeking unique vehicle options
Comfortable with local services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your trip more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Consider your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in Ireland
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and manual cars
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Personal insurance
  Check if your Danish insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Dublin, Cork, Galway
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-country trips in Ireland
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Coastal areas like Dingle Peninsula, Ring of Kerry

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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Explore Ireland's Top Destinations

Ireland offers breathtaking landscapes, historic cities, and scenic routes perfect for car rentals. Discover the charm of Dublin, the beauty of Galway, and the iconic cliffs of Moher in comfort and style.

What Insurance Do I Need?

When renting a car in Ireland, basic insurance is required to legally drive, but additional coverage is advisable for a worry-free experience. Ensure you understand what is included in your rental agreement and consider extra protection to avoid high costs due to unforeseen incidents.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car in case of collision or theft.
100-170 DKK/day
Essential
Theft Waiver (TP)
Protects against theft of the rental vehicle.
35-55 DKK/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance
Covers injury or damage to others and their property.
Often included in the rental fee
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers in case of an accident.
35-70 DKK/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Ireland. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

US$1,171.87 - US$5,839.23

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

US$1,171.87 - US$5,839.23

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Ireland?

Discover practical tips for Danish travelers renting cars in Ireland to maximize savings and ensure a smooth experience.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book in Advance
Reserve your rental car at least 4-6 weeks before your travel date to secure the best rates and availability.
Potential savings: Up to 35% on rental costs.
Check for Discounts
Look for discounts through memberships, credit card rewards, or promotional deals on rental platforms.
Potential savings: Up to 20%.
Choose a Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Opt for rental agreements where you pick up and return the car with a full tank. Refuel at local stations for better prices.
Potential savings: DKK 150-300 per rental.
Compare Different Rental Companies
Use comparison sites to evaluate prices and inclusions across various providers to find the best deal.
Potential savings: Up to 25%.

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
View Details
Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
View Details
One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Ireland.

Hidden Fees
Watch out for extra charges that aren't included in the base price.
- Airport surcharges (can vary depending on location)
- Young driver fees (applicable if under 25)
- Additional driver fees
- Equipment rentals (GPS, child seats)
- Toll road transponders
Insurance Coverage
Ensure you understand insurance requirements in Ireland.
- Check if your current insurance covers rental cars abroad
- Some credit cards offer collision coverage
- Evaluate third-party insurance options for better rates
- Understand excess charges and coverage limits
- Confirm policies for personal liability coverage
Fuel Policies
Different fuel return policies can significantly impact costs.
- Full-to-full policy is generally more cost-effective
- Prepaid fuel options may be overpriced
- Locate nearby gas stations before returning the car
- Keep receipts for proof of refueling
- Ensure the fuel level matches the initial agreement
Vehicle Inspection
Thorough inspection prevents disputes later.
- Take detailed photos/videos of any existing damage
- Inspect tires, lights, mirrors, and bodywork
- Test all electronics and air conditioning
- Document the interior condition
- Verify fuel level and mileage at pickup and return
Contract Terms
Read the fine print to avoid surprises.
- Check mileage restrictions and fees
- Understand geographic driving limitations
- Review vehicle return policies and timing
- Confirm cancellation and modification terms
- Clarify damage assessment and repair procedures
Pickup & Return Times
Timing can affect your rental costs and experience.
- Plan arrival during operating hours
- Allow extra time for airport rental locations
- Late returns may incur full-day charges
- Early returns might not qualify for refunds
- Avoid peak traffic hours when traveling to/from rental facilities

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

Traffic Rules Comparison: Denmark vs. Ireland

Traffic rules in Denmark and Ireland have some differences in regulations, driving habits, and road signage, which are important for travelers to understand.

Driving Side
IE
Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
DK
Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Speed Limits
IE
Measured in km/h, typically 50 km/h in urban areas and 120 km/h on motorways.
DK
Measured in km/h, typically 50 km/h in urban areas and 130 km/h on motorways.
Roundabouts
IE
Vehicles on the roundabout have the right of way.
DK
Vehicles on the roundabout have the right of way, but signaling practices may differ.
Pedestrian Crossings
IE
Drivers must stop for pedestrians at zebra crossings.
DK
Drivers are expected to stop for pedestrians, but enforcement may differ.
Seatbelt Laws
IE
Mandatory for all occupants.
DK
Mandatory for all occupants.
Mobile Phone Use
IE
Prohibited unless using a hands-free system.
DK
Prohibited unless using a hands-free system.
Remember
- • Familiarize yourself with Irish road signs, as they may differ from those in Denmark.
- • Ensure your car rental includes insurance coverage for Ireland.
- • Carry a valid driver’s license and your rental agreement at all times.
- • Take extra care when adjusting to driving on the opposite side of the road.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Denmark renting a car in Ireland

When is the best time to book a rental car in Ireland?

It is highly recommended to book your rental car at least 2-3 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the high season (June-August) or holiday periods. Prices increase significantly closer to your departure date, and the selection of cars, especially automatics, becomes limited.

What type of car should I choose for Irish roads?

Opt for the smallest, most compact car that can comfortably accommodate you and your luggage. Many of Ireland's scenic rural roads are extremely narrow, making a smaller car easier for navigation, parking, and passing oncoming traffic.

Should I choose manual or automatic transmission?

As a Danish driver used to right-side driving, adapting to left-hand traffic is already a challenge. Operating a manual shift with your left hand can add extra stress. While automatics are less common and more expensive, they are strongly recommended for a more relaxed experience. Reserve early!

Where is the best place to compare prices and book a car?

For a comprehensive overview of prices, car types, and policies from various rental companies, QEEQ is an excellent comparison and booking platform. It consolidates offers, making it easy to find the best deal and view included insurance and terms.

Is it more expensive to pick up the car at an airport than in the city?

Yes, there is typically an 'airport surcharge' added to the price for the convenience. If you are on a tight budget, consider picking up the car at a city office, but factor in the cost and logistics of getting there.

Do I need to rent a GPS/navigation device from the rental company?

Usually not. Use Google Maps or Waze on your smartphone. Thanks to the EU's 'Roam Like at Home' rules, you can use your mobile data in Ireland without extra charges. Remember to bring a phone holder and car charger.

What about one-way rentals (e.g., pick up in Dublin, return in Shannon)?

One-way rentals are possible with most major companies but almost always incur an extra fee. The amount can vary, so check carefully during the booking process on QEEQ, which typically specifies such charges.

Can I rent child seats or booster cushions?

Yes, all rental companies offer these as add-ons for a daily fee. Irish law requires children under 150 cm or 36 kg to use an appropriate child seat/booster. Reserve in advance to guarantee availability.

Is it possible to drive the rental car to Northern Ireland?

Yes, most companies allow driving to Northern Ireland (part of the UK). You must inform the rental company at pick-up; some charge a small 'cross-border fee.' Note that speed limits in Northern Ireland are in miles per hour (mph), not kilometers per hour (km/h).

Does the season affect my choice of car?

Summer (June-August) brings more tourists and higher prices. Spring and autumn have fewer crowds and lower prices. Winter weather can be changeable with rain and wind, but snow is rare in lowlands. A standard car is generally suitable year-round.

Is my Danish driver's license valid in Ireland?

Yes. As Denmark is an EU country, your Danish driver's license is fully valid in Ireland. No additional permits are needed.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

No. An IDP is not required for holders of an EU license like the Danish one. Your standard plastic license is sufficient.

What are the age requirements for renting a car in Ireland?

The standard age requirement is usually between 25 and 75 years old. Drivers under 25 face significant 'young driver surcharges' and may be restricted to smaller car categories. For drivers over 75, some companies require extra documentation, such as a medical certificate.

How long must I have held my driver's license?

Most rental companies require you to have held your license for at least one year; some require two years for larger car categories. Always check the specific terms for your chosen company.

What documents do I need to present at the rental desk?

You need: 1) your valid Danish driver's license, 2) your passport (as photo ID), 3) a credit card in the main driver's name, and 4) your booking confirmation/voucher.

Can I add an additional driver?

Yes, for a daily fee per additional driver. The extra driver must be present at pick-up and provide the same documents (license and passport).

My driver's license does not have English text everywhere. Is that a problem?

No. The Danish license follows the standardized EU format, which is recognized and accepted throughout the EU, including Ireland.

What if I have penalty points on my license?

Minor offenses are usually not an issue. For serious violations (e.g., DUI), the rental company may refuse to rent. Contact the company in advance if unsure.

What is typically included in the basic rental price?

Usually, the base rate includes the car rental, third-party liability insurance, collision damage waiver (CDW) with a high excess, theft protection (also with excess), and VAT.

What is CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), and is it full insurance?

CDW is not full insurance but reduces your financial responsibility for car damage to a set excess (deductible), often between €1,500 and €3,000.

What is 'excess' (deductible)?

The excess is the maximum amount you pay out of pocket in case of damage. If your excess is €2,000 and damage costs €3,000, you pay €2,000, and insurance covers the rest. For damage below €2,000, you pay the full amount.

What is Super CDW (Excess Waiver/Zero Deductible)? Should I buy it?

Super CDW is an extra insurance bought at the rental desk that lowers your excess to zero or a small amount (€100–€250). While it's more expensive (€25–€35/day), it brings peace of mind, especially on narrow Irish roads. It's highly recommended for first-time visitors.

Can I use my credit card insurance instead of buying Super CDW?

Many Irish rental companies are reluctant to accept third-party insurance, including credit card insurance. If you insist, they may require a large deposit (often €5,000 or more) and written proof of coverage. Most travelers end up buying Super CDW to avoid hassles.

What is the security deposit?

It's an amount blocked (not charged) on your credit card to cover excess, fuel, fines, or unforeseen costs. Without Super CDW, it's high (€1,500+); with Super CDW, it's typically a few hundred euros.

Which fuel policy should I choose?

Always choose 'Full-to-Full': you receive the car with a full tank and return it full. This is the fairest and most cost-effective option. Avoid 'Full-to-Empty,' where you prepay for fuel at inflated prices.

Should I pay with a credit card or debit card?

You must use a credit card in the main driver's name. Most Irish rental companies do not accept debit cards for the security deposit.

Are there any hidden fees I should watch out for?

Watch for airport fees, young/older driver surcharges, extra driver fees, one-way rental charges, cross-border fees, and charges for extras like GPS or child seats. Using QEEQ helps you see a more complete cost overview up front.

How do tolls work in Ireland?

Most motorways (M roads) have toll booths where you pay by cash or card. The M50 around Dublin uses a barrier-free system (eFlow) with automatic number plate recognition. You must pay online at eflow.ie by 8 pm the next day. Ask your rental company about automatic payment options.

Does basic CDW cover tires, windows, or underbody damage?

No. Such damage is usually excluded. Super CDW often includes these items, but always read the terms carefully.

What happens if I return the car late?

You will likely be charged for a full extra day at a high rate. Most companies have a brief grace period (29–59 minutes), but exceeding it incurs charges.

What is the first thing I should do when I receive the car?

Inspect the car thoroughly for existing damage, inside and out. Take photos and videos of every scratch, dent, or mark. Ensure all damage is noted on the rental agreement by a staff member before driving off.

What are your best tips for adapting to left-hand driving?

Repeat the mantra: 'Stay Left, Look Right,' especially at intersections and roundabouts. Let your passenger help keep you alert. Practice a few minutes in the parking lot. Enter roundabouts clockwise (to the left), and always yield to traffic from the right. Be extra careful with right turns.

What are Irish roads like?

Road quality varies: motorways (M) are high-quality multi-lane roads, national roads (N) are good but may be single lane, regional roads (R) are often narrow and winding, and local roads (L) can be extremely narrow—sometimes only one car wide.

What are the speed limits in Ireland?

Speed limits (in km/h) are: Motorways (120), National roads (100), Regional roads (80), Urban areas (50, sometimes 30). Always watch for signs.

What should I know about parking?

In cities, look for 'Pay and Display' signs. Buy a ticket from a machine and display it on your dashboard. Double yellow lines mean no parking at any time; single yellow means restrictions during certain hours (check signs).

Is it true there may be sheep on the road?

Yes, especially in rural and mountainous areas like Connemara, Kerry, and Donegal. Slow down and give sheep time to move. Do not honk, as it may startle them unpredictably.

What are petrol and diesel called at Irish fuel stations?

'Unleaded' or 'Petrol' for petrol, and 'Diesel' for diesel. Be very careful to use the correct fuel—misfuelling is not covered by insurance and is expensive to fix.

What is the emergency number in Ireland?

112 or 999—both connect you to police, ambulance, and fire services.

What are the rules on alcohol and driving?

Ireland has strict drink-driving laws with a low blood alcohol limit (0.5‰ for experienced drivers, lower for new drivers). The simple rule: do not drive if you have consumed any alcohol. Police checks are common.

Can I use my mobile phone while driving?

It is illegal to hold and use a mobile phone while driving. Only hands-free use is allowed.

How does the car return process work?

Drive to the rental return area. A staff member will inspect the car for new damage and check the fuel level. Get a receipt confirming the car was returned without issues.

What should I check before leaving the car?

Make sure you have all your personal belongings—check the glove box, trunk, and under seats. Ensure the fuel tank is at the agreed level (usually full).

When will I get my security deposit back?

The hold on your credit card is typically released within 5–10 business days after return, provided there are no issues (damage, fines, missing fuel).

What should I do if I am involved in an accident?

Stop in a safe place, call 112/999 if anyone is injured, take photos of the scene and all vehicles, exchange insurance and contact details with other parties, but never admit fault. Contact the rental company's emergency number and follow their instructions.

What should I do if the car breaks down?

All rentals come with roadside assistance. Call the emergency number on your contract or a sticker in the car. Do not attempt to repair the car yourself.

What if I notice a new scratch that I caused?

If you purchased Super CDW, it's usually not a problem—just report it at return. Without Super CDW, the repair cost will come from your deposit up to the excess. Always be honest.

What if I receive a speeding or parking ticket after returning home?

The rental company, as the registered owner, will pay the fine and charge your credit card for the amount plus an administration fee.

Do I need to clean the car before returning it?

The car must be returned in reasonable condition. If it is excessively dirty inside (e.g., sand, spills, rubbish), you may be charged a cleaning fee.

Can I return the car outside of office hours?

Some locations offer a 'key drop box.' However, you are responsible for the car until it is inspected the next business day. Take thorough photos of the car from all angles as proof.

Who should I contact if I dispute a post-rental charge?

First, contact the rental company's customer service with your documentation (contract, photos, receipts). If you booked via QEEQ, their support can help mediate. As a last resort, dispute the charge with your credit card issuer.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Ireland for Danish Travelers

Embarking on a journey through Ireland can be both an adventure and a logistical puzzle. Whether it's navigating scenic routes, understanding local traffic norms, or selecting the right rental vehicle, preparation is key. If you're traveling from Denmark, key questions might include:

Can Danish Citizens Drive in Ireland?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Danish Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Explore Ireland's Top Destinations

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Ireland?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Traffic Rules Comparison: Denmark vs. Ireland

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations

Embarking on a journey through Ireland can be both an adventure and a logistical puzzle. Whether it's navigating scenic routes, understanding local traffic norms, or selecting the right rental vehicle, preparation is key.
If you're traveling from Denmark, key questions might include: