Car Rental in Ireland for Polish Travelers

A road trip through Ireland offers breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. If you're traveling from Poland to Ireland for the first time, you'll likely have questions about requirements and best practices for car rentals and driving.

Can I drive in Ireland with my Polish driving license?
Should I consider extra insurance besides standard coverage offered by rental companies?
What are typical rental car rates in Ireland?
Are automatic cars readily available for rent?
What are the differences in driving laws between Ireland and Poland?

This guide is tailored to Polish travelers, offering essential insights and practical advice for car rentals in Ireland. Use it to navigate preparations and make your trip smooth and enjoyable.

Can Polish Citizens Drive in Ireland?

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

Form of ID:
A valid passport is required for foreign renters.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
or
• 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 are required. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, Discover, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 21 and 80 years old. For drivers aged 21-24, young driver fees may apply and are to be confirmed. For drivers aged 75-80, additional fees may apply and are 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 Polish travelers.

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:
140
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 Polish 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
Staying in major cities only
Want unique vehicle experiences
Comfortable with app-based services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Selecting the appropriate rental car enhances your travel experience, ensuring comfort, safety, and convenience. Consider your travel group, destinations, and driving style. At QEEQ, we empower you to compare various car types and policies to find the best fit for your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Evaluate your travel party size and luggage requirements.
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Ideal for city driving and short trips.
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Offer a balance between space and fuel efficiency.
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for extended distances.
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Perfect for families and group travel.
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmissions.
- Automatic transmission
  Convenient for city driving and traffic, prevalent in Ireland.
- Manual transmission
  Economical and offers better control, but requires familiarity.
- Consider your comfort level with driving on the left side of the road and using manual cars.
Insurance Included
Understand the insurance coverage offered with the rental.
- Basic liability
  Typically included, covers damages to other vehicles and property.
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Optional, covers damage to the rental car.
- Theft protection
  May be included or available at an additional cost.
- Check if your Polish insurance or travel policy covers rental vehicles.
Cancellation Policy
Get familiar with booking flexibility and fees.
- Free cancellation
  Often available up to 24-48 hours before pickup.
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid is generally cheaper but less flexible.
- Change fees
  Charges for modifying booking details.
- Travel insurance
  Consider policies covering trip changes or cancellations.
Mileage Policy
Review distance limits and additional charges.
- Unlimited mileage
  Ideal for long trips or exploring multiple locations.
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper but incurs extra fees for exceeding set limits.
- Factor in your travel route and detours when choosing mileage plans.
Fuel Policy
Understand the fuel options and associated costs.
- Full-to-Full
  Return with a full tank, the most cost-effective option.
- Full-to-Empty
  Prepay for fuel, convenient yet often pricier.
- Same-to-Same
  Return with the same fuel level as at pickup.
- Compare pre-purchase fuel rates with local prices for savings.

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 policy.
The Wild Atlantic Way, Ring of Kerry.
Vacation
SUV/Convertible with comprehensive insurance and prepaid fuel option.
Coastal drives, countryside explorations.

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.

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No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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Popular Destinations for Travelers from Poland to Ireland

Ireland offers breathtaking landscapes, historic landmarks, and charming cities for exploration. Whether you're visiting Dublin, Galway, or Cork, renting a car provides unmatched convenience to enjoy the scenic routes and countryside.

What Insurance Do I Need?

You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in Ireland, but additional coverage can provide peace of mind during your trip. Insurance regulations vary, and what's included in your rental price may be minimal. Selecting the right insurance can help prevent high expenses in case of accidents or theft.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damages to the rental car caused by collision or theft.
PLN 65-110/day
Essential
Theft Waiver (TP)
Provides protection against the theft of the rental vehicle.
PLN 22-35/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance
Covers damages to others or their property.
Usually included in rental price
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers.
PLN 22-45/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$1,894.29 - US$5,919.68

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

US$1,894.29 - US$5,919.68

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?

For travelers from Poland visiting Ireland, these tips can help you reduce your car rental expenses while ensuring a smooth experience.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Plan Ahead
Book your rental car at least 3-4 weeks in advance to secure the best rates and availability during your trip.
Save up to 20% on average
Choose Economy Cars
Opt for economy or compact cars, as they are generally more fuel-efficient and cheaper to rent.
Save up to 15%
Avoid Airport Rentals
Rent a car from an off-airport location to avoid additional fees often charged at airport facilities.
Save approximately 100-300 PLN
Return with a Full Tank
Select the 'full-to-full' fuel policy and refill the tank before returning the car to avoid high refueling charges.
Save 80-150 PLN
Review Insurance Options
Check if your personal car insurance or credit card covers rental car insurance before purchasing additional coverage.
Avoid unnecessary insurance costs
Check for Free Mileage
Verify if your rental includes unlimited mileage to avoid additional charges for exceeding the limit.
Save on extra mileage fees

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
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Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
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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?

Key considerations and tips for Polish travelers renting a car in Ireland.

Driving on the Left
Ireland drives on the left side of the road, which may be unfamiliar to Polish drivers.
- Take time to adjust to left-side driving.
- Roundabouts operate clockwise; give way to traffic from the right.
- Familiarize yourself with road signs and speed limits.
Navigation Challenges
Roads in rural areas can be narrow and winding.
- Consider renting a GPS or use a reliable navigation app.
- Plan your routes in advance, especially in remote areas.
- Watch out for unmarked roads and local traffic peculiarities.
Insurance Requirements
Irish car rental insurance policies may differ from those in Poland.
- Check if your Polish insurance or credit card covers rental cars abroad.
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is often required and may not include excess coverage.
- Consider purchasing additional coverage for peace of mind.
Booking in Advance
Reserve your car early, especially during tourist seasons.
- Availability can be limited, particularly for automatic vehicles.
- Booking online often provides better rates and selections.
- Verify the cancellation and modification policies.
Fuel Types and Policies
Know the type of fuel your rental car uses and the refill policy.
- Diesel is common and may be more economical.
- Full-to-full policies are standard; return the car with a full tank to avoid surcharges.
- Locate nearby gas stations before returning the car.
Toll Roads
Ireland has several toll roads, which can impact your travel costs.
- The M50 near Dublin uses an electronic toll system; fees must be paid online.
- Carry change for toll booths on other roads.
- Confirm if the rental company includes toll payment services.

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: Key Differences and Similarities between Poland and Ireland

Understanding the traffic regulations in Ireland compared to Poland to ensure safe and lawful driving during your travels.

Road Signage
IE
Uses English and Irish language on road signs
PL
Road signs predominantly in Polish
Speed Limits
IE
General urban speed limit is 50 km/h, rural roads vary
PL
Urban limit is 50 km/h, stricter regulations on rural roads
Vehicle Side
IE
Drive on the left side of the road
PL
Drive on the right side of the road
Alcohol Limits
IE
0.05% BAC for drivers
PL
0.02% BAC for drivers, stricter enforcement
Seatbelt Usage
IE
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
PL
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
Mobile Phone Usage
IE
Hands-free systems allowed only
PL
Hands-free systems allowed only
Parking Regulations
IE
Specific areas marked for parking, adherence to direction of traffic
PL
Similar parking regulations with local variations
Remember
- • Always carry your driver's license and rental agreement.
- • Ensure your vehicle is equipped with necessary safety items, such as a warning triangle.
- • Adapt to driving on the left when transitioning from Poland.
- • Check for toll roads and parking regulations in major cities.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Poland renting a car in Ireland

How to choose the right car for Irish roads?

It is recommended to choose a smaller car, especially if you plan to drive on narrow rural roads in the west of Ireland. Compact cars are easier to drive and park. An automatic transmission can make driving on the left-hand side much easier.

When is the best time to book a car to get the best price?

The earlier, the better – ideally book 2–3 months before your trip. Last-minute bookings are often more expensive, especially in the summer season and around holidays.

Where is the best place to compare car rental offers in Ireland?

It’s best to use comparison platforms like QEEQ, which show prices from different rental companies and available insurance options in one place.

Is it better to book a car at the airport or in the city centre?

Airports offer a wider choice of cars and often lower base rates, but an airport surcharge is applied. In the city centre it may be cheaper, but the choice of cars is more limited.

Can I cancel or modify my booking free of charge?

Most platforms (like QEEQ) allow free cancellation or modification up to 48 hours before pickup, but always check the booking conditions.

Is a Polish driving licence accepted in Ireland?

Yes, a Polish (plastic) driving licence is accepted in Ireland without any additional translations or certifications.

Do I need an International Driving Permit if I have a Polish licence?

No, if you have a plastic EU licence (with a photo and expiry date), you do not need to obtain an International Driving Permit.

What is the minimum and maximum age of a driver renting a car?

Most rental companies require drivers to be between 25 and 75 years old. Drivers aged 21–24 will pay a higher young driver surcharge. Drivers over 75 may need a medical certificate.

Is a credit card required to rent a car?

Usually yes. A main credit card in the driver’s name is required to block the security deposit. Rental companies rarely accept debit cards.

Can I book a car for someone else in my own name?

No, the main driver must present their driving licence and a credit card in their own name at pickup.

How do I add an additional driver and how much does it cost?

All drivers must be present at pickup and show their driving licences. The additional driver fee is usually 10–15 euros per day.

What documents do I need to have when picking up the car?

You need: your booking confirmation, Polish driving licence, a valid credit card in the driver’s name, and a passport or national ID card.

What does the car rental price consist of?

The base price is the rental cost and often includes CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) and TP (Theft Protection). Additional charges may include airport surcharges, young driver fees, additional driver fees, GPS or child seats.

How much is the deposit and when is it refunded?

The deposit is usually 1,500–3,000 euros (if you only take basic insurance). With full insurance it may drop to 100–300 euros. The deposit is blocked on your card and released up to 14 days after the car is returned.

What is a fuel policy and which one is best?

The best option is ‘full to full’ – you pick up and return the car with a full tank. Other options are usually less favourable financially.

How do you pay tolls on Irish motorways?

Most toll booths accept cash and cards, but on the M50 around Dublin there is an electronic eFlow system – you must pay yourself online or in a shop by 8 p.m. the following day.

What are the most common hidden fees when renting a car?

Airport surcharges, additional driver fees, young driver surcharges, GPS/child seats, refuelling charges for an incomplete tank, unpaid M50 tolls, and expensive insurance sold at the counter.

In what currency are payments processed and how does currency conversion work?

All charges are in euros. Your PLN card will be charged after conversion at your bank’s exchange rate and an additional foreign transaction fee may apply.

Will I get a refund if I return the car earlier?

Generally no – most bookings (especially prepaid ones) do not provide refunds for unused days.

What does basic CDW insurance cover?

CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) is not full insurance – it limits your financial responsibility to an excess, which is usually 1,500–3,000 euros.

What is ‘excess’?

It is the maximum amount you will pay out of your own pocket for damage to the car. If the damage is lower than the excess, you pay the full amount; if higher, you only pay up to the excess.

What is SCDW/Super CDW and is it worth buying at the counter?

SCDW removes or significantly reduces the excess (sometimes to zero), but it is expensive (25–40 euros per day). It is convenient but not cost-effective – it’s better to buy cheaper excess insurance from independent providers.

Is Third Party Liability (TPL) insurance included in the price?

Yes, Irish law requires every rental car to have Third Party Liability insurance. It covers third parties but does not cover damage to the rental car itself.

Can I buy excess insurance through a third party?

Yes, for example via QEEQ or independent websites (RentalCover, Worldwide Insure). This is much cheaper than SCDW offered by the rental company.

What happens if I have my own excess insurance and refuse SCDW at the rental desk?

The rental company will still block a high deposit. In case of damage they charge you up to the excess amount, and you then claim reimbursement from your own insurer.

Does CDW cover tyres, windows, underbody and roof?

Usually NOT. Damage to tyres, windows, underbody, roof and mirrors is excluded from CDW – check the details and consider additional cover.

What is Theft Protection (TP)?

It is insurance against theft of the car, limiting your liability to a specified excess. It is often bundled with CDW.

Where are the rental desks located at Dublin Airport?

Some rental companies (e.g. Hertz, Avis) have desks in the terminal, while others (Sixt, Europcar, Budget) require a free shuttle bus ride to an off-airport rental centre.

What does the pickup process look like – step by step?

Present your documents, sign the rental agreement, and have the deposit blocked on your card. Before leaving, carefully inspect the car, take photos and ask to have all existing damage noted in the checkout report.

How to thoroughly inspect the car before departure?

Walk around the car from all sides and take photos/video. Pay attention to scratches, paint chips, damaged rims, windows, tyres. Check the fuel level and that the lights and air conditioning are working.

What should I do if I notice damage that was not reported?

Report it to a staff member immediately and make sure it is added to the checkout report – this helps you avoid unjustified charges on return.

How to respond to pressure from staff to buy expensive insurance at the counter?

Decline politely but firmly, stating that you have your own insurance. Confirm that you accept the high deposit and understand the claims procedure.

Is it worth renting a GPS from the rental company?

No – devices are outdated and expensive (10–20 euros per day). It is better to use navigation on your phone (Google Maps, Waze) with offline maps downloaded.

How to quickly get used to driving on the left?

Choose an automatic. Each time you get back into the car repeat ‘keep left’. Practise driving in a car park, especially turns and entering roundabouts. Having a passenger to assist is helpful.

Are Irish rural roads difficult to drive on?

Yes, they can be very narrow, winding and lined with stone walls/hedges. Drive slowly, use passing bays to let others by and avoid driving too close to the left edge.

How to recognise speed limits and what are the key values?

In Ireland: motorways 120 km/h, national roads 100 km/h, regional roads 80 km/h, urban areas 50 km/h. Signs are clear, but remember – in Northern Ireland limits are shown in miles per hour (mph).

How to safely drive through roundabouts?

Enter clockwise, give way to vehicles coming from the right. For the 2nd exit, stay in the left lane; for later exits, use the right lane on the roundabout.

How does parking and parking payment work in cities?

In large cities, parking is expensive and limited. You usually pay at a parking meter (Pay and Display) and place the ticket behind the windscreen. Do not park on double yellow lines.

Are petrol stations self-service and how not to mix up fuel types?

Most stations are self-service. Check the label on the key fob or fuel cap – ‘diesel’ is diesel fuel, ‘petrol/unleaded’ is petrol. Misfuelling can lead to serious costs and is not covered by insurance.

Can I drive a rental car to Northern Ireland?

Most rental companies allow travel to Northern Ireland (UK), but may charge a cross-border fee. Make sure this is noted in the rental agreement.

What should I do before returning the car?

Clean the car of personal rubbish, refuel to full (according to the fuel policy), keep the receipt from the last refuelling and allow time for a full inspection by a staff member.

What does the car return process at the airport look like?

Drive to the designated car return area. A staff member checks the condition of the car and fuel level, then signs the return report – ask for a copy.

What should I do if I return the car outside the rental company’s opening hours?

Take photos of the car, park it in the designated area and drop the keys in the key drop-off box. Photo documentation can be crucial in case of a dispute.

What to do in case of a road accident?

Secure the scene, do not admit liability, take photos of the damage and the other party’s documents, and contact the rental company immediately – the emergency number is in your rental agreement.

What to do if the car breaks down on the road?

Call the rental company’s 24/7 roadside assistance number (provided in the agreement). Do not attempt to repair the car yourself and do not use random garages.

What should I do if unjustified charges appear on my card after returning the car?

Submit a written complaint to the rental company, requesting clarification and documentation (e.g. photos, invoices, damage report). Keep your rental agreement and return report.

What are the approximate costs of minor repairs (e.g. scratch, dent)?

A small scratch costs around 100–300 euros, a dent 400–800 euros. Rental companies’ rates are higher than regular garages, and your excess limits the maximum amount you pay.

What happens if I get a speeding or parking ticket?

The fine is sent to the rental company, which charges you an administrative fee (30–50 euros) and forwards your details to the issuing authority. You must pay the actual fine yourself.

What should I pay particular attention to when driving the Wild Atlantic Way?

The route is scenic but narrow and winding. Plan short daily distances, be prepared to give way to larger vehicles and take extra care in rain and fog. GPS and offline maps are very helpful.

What are the three most important tips to avoid problems when renting a car in Ireland?

1) Insurance: buy SCDW or cheap excess insurance and accept a high deposit. 2) Carefully document the car’s condition at pickup and return. 3) Always return the car with a full tank and keep the fuel receipt.

Still have questions？

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

Car Rental in Ireland for Polish Travelers

A road trip through Ireland offers breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. If you're traveling from Poland to Ireland for the first time, you'll likely have questions about requirements and best practices for car rentals and driving.

Can Polish Citizens Drive in Ireland?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Polish Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Popular Destinations for Travelers from Poland to Ireland

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: Key Differences and Similarities between Poland and Ireland

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations