Car Hire at Dublin Heuston Train Station

UK licence holders can drive directly in Ireland with no additional documentation. US, Australian, and other international visitors should carry both their full licence and an International Driving Permit (IDP) – the latter acts as a certified translation. Most rental companies will accept these without question, but police checkpoints are common and you could face fines without them. Budget around €15–€20 for an IDP if needed.

Yes, drivers under 25 almost universally face a 'young driver surcharge' in Ireland, typically €25–€35 per day. Some agencies charge flat fees instead. At 23+, you may find slightly lower rates, but don't expect to escape the surcharge entirely. If you're 21, many companies simply won't insure you, or the surcharge becomes prohibitive at €50+ daily. Worth comparing specialist insurers if you're in this age bracket.

This is the single biggest adjustment for visitors from right-hand drive countries. Roundabouts are everywhere and the rule is 'give way to traffic already on the roundabout' – not always observed in practice. Country roads are narrow with high hedgerows, making overtaking dangerous. Start on motorways (M50 Dublin ring road is tolled, €3.10 per crossing) before tackling rural routes. Take the first 24 hours very slowly; don't book a tight schedule.

Ireland's eToll system is electronic only – no cash booths on most motorways. The M50 around Dublin charges €3.10 per crossing (frequency caps exist). If you're renting, ask about an eToll add-on fee (usually €3–€6 daily, capped at around €50–€80 per month) versus paying per journey. For a week-long trip covering Dublin, Galway, and Cork, renting the device often works out cheaper than multiple individual charges.

Painfully high. On-street parking in central Dublin runs €2.70–€4.00 per hour via the Pay&Display machines or the ParkPazz app. Multistorey car parks charge €3–€5 per hour or €25–€40 per day. Your hotel may have arrangements – always ask. On-street parking is free on Sundays and after 18:00 in many zones, but don't risk overstaying or you'll return to a wheel clamp (immobilisation fee €80+).

Unlike Austria or Germany, winter tyres are not legally required in Ireland. However, from November to March, unexpected snow and black ice are genuine possibilities – especially in the Wicklow Mountains south of Dublin, and on rural roads nationwide. Most rental companies offer cars with all-season tyres as standard. If you're travelling mountain routes like the Gap of Dunloe or the Ring of Kerry, ask your rental company for reassurance on tyre condition. Snow chains are almost never needed or practical given Ireland's terrain.