Car Rental in Ireland for US Travelers

Embarking on your road trip to explore Ireland's breathtaking landscapes and historical sites can be thrilling. US travelers renting cars in Ireland often face unique considerations.

Do I need an international driving permit to drive in Ireland?
What are the insurance policies required?
What are the typical costs of renting a car in Ireland?
Are automatic cars available, given most vehicles are manual in Ireland?
What are the key driving rules in Ireland compared to the USA?

This guide provides key answers and essential tips for hassle-free car rental and driving in Ireland, tailored specifically for US travelers.

Can US Citizens Drive in Ireland?

Yes, US 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 US Driver's License
• EU/EEA Driving License
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
• Original Canada Driving Licence
• Original Driver licence in Australia
• UK Driving License（with DVLA check code/DVLA endorsement record）
Notes: *Driver's license, passport, and IDP must be issued in the same country.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, Discover, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 21 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 22-25 may incur an additional fee of US$ 39.93 per day.

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

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Choose from reliable international providers or trusted local agencies to ensure a smooth car rental experience in Ireland.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
49
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
132
Prices:
$$
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:
53
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:
$$
Key Advantages
- Flexible rental options
- Free pickup service
- Rewards program for frequent renters
- Comprehensive insurance options
Best for
Leisure travelers and business trips
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
73
Prices:
$$$
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:
79
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Easy online booking
- Nationwide coverage
- Customer service support
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
PAYLESS
global
8.5
Locations:
29
Prices:
$$
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:
13
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Affordable pricing
- Wide range of vehicle options
- Excellent customer service
- Convenient locations
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families

Recommendations for Travelers from the US

Choose Global Chains If:

You prefer familiarity and standard processes.
Looking for English-speaking support.
Value consistent vehicle quality.
Need a wide selection of pickup and drop-off locations.

Choose Local Brands If:

You want competitive pricing for short stays.
Planning to explore specific regions of Ireland.
Interested in supporting local businesses.
Flexible with booking and service options.

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your journey in Ireland more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about 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 USA
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Most Irish drivers use manual transmission
- 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 US 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 manual transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Dublin, Cork, Galway
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
The Wild Atlantic Way, Ring of Kerry
Vacation
SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Killarney, Cliffs of Moher, Connemara

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
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Popular Destinations in Ireland

Ireland is renowned for its scenic drives and charming cities. Travelers from the US can explore destinations like Dublin, Galway, and Cork, enjoy the natural beauty along the Wild Atlantic Way, or visit iconic sites such as the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry. Renting a car allows for flexible travel and discovery of Ireland's rich heritage and landscapes.

What Insurance Do I Need?

Before driving in Ireland, it's crucial to understand the insurance requirements. While basic coverage is legally mandatory, additional protection can provide extra peace of mind during your trip.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car in case of collision or theft, but often comes with an excess fee.
$20-30/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Protects against financial liability in case the rental car is stolen.
$10-15/day
Essential
Third-party Liability Insurance
Covers damages or injuries caused to others or their property while driving.
Included in rental price
Included
Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW)
Reduces or eliminates the excess fee associated with CDW.
$10-20/day
Optional
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Provides medical coverage for you and passengers in case of an accident.
$5-10/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.

Insurance Coverage Comparison

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

$1,759.13 - $4,691.01

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$1,759.13 - $4,691.01

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

Money-Saving Tips for Car Rentals in Ireland

Discover practical ways to reduce costs when renting a car in Ireland as a traveler from the United States. Ensure a smooth and budget-friendly rental experience.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Early
Secure your rental car at least 4-6 weeks prior to your trip to access lower prices and a wider range of vehicle options.
Save up to 20%
Avoid Airport Rentals
Rental rates at airports tend to include higher fees. Opt for city-center locations for more economical choices.
Save up to $50 on fees
Consider Smaller Cars
Compact vehicles are more fuel-efficient and often come with cheaper rental rates in Ireland.
Save $10-30 per day
Fuel Policy Awareness
Choose a full-to-full fuel policy for better cost control and refill at local gas stations instead of at rental agencies.
Save $20-40 on fuel costs
Review Insurance Options
Check if your credit card covers rental car insurance to avoid paying extra for collision damage waivers.
Save $50-100 on insurance fees
Use Price Comparison Tools
Leverage platforms like QEEQ or Auto Europe to compare rental prices and find exclusive discounts.
Save 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.

Additional Charges
Be aware of extra costs that might not be included in the initial quote.
- Cross-border fees if driving to Northern Ireland
- Young driver fees for those under 25
- Charges for additional drivers
- Costs for optional equipment like GPS or child seats
- Insurance excess reduction fees
Insurance Coverage
Understand the insurance options and requirements before you rent.
- Most rentals include basic CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), but it often has a high deductible.
- Consider purchasing Super CDW or excess insurance to reduce this deductible.
- Check if your credit card offers rental car insurance coverage.
- Verify if personal car insurance policies extend to international rentals.
Fuel Policies
Fuel return policies can vary and impact your final costs.
- Full-to-full policy is common and cost-effective if you refill the tank before returning.
- Some companies offer a full-to-empty policy but often charge for a full tank at inflated rates.
- Keep receipts as proof of refueling.
Vehicle Condition
Inspect the vehicle thoroughly at pickup to avoid disputes later.
- Document all visible damages with photos or videos.
- Check the tire condition and pressure.
- Test the functionality of all lights, wipers, and electronics.
Rental Agreement Details
Carefully review the contract to understand the terms and avoid surprises.
- Ensure unlimited mileage if you plan to travel extensively.
- Verify the policy on late returns and grace periods.
- Check for restrictions on taking the vehicle to specific areas or countries.
Driving in Ireland
Be prepared for driving in a new environment.
- In Ireland, driving is on the left side of the road.
- Roads are often narrow, especially in rural areas.
- Roundabouts are common; familiarize yourself with their rules.

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.

What Are The Differences Between US and Irish Traffic Rules

US and Irish traffic rules differ significantly in driving sides, speed limits, signage units (miles vs. kilometers), alcohol tolerance, and pedestrian crossings.

Driving Side
IE
Drive on the left-hand side
US
Drive on the right-hand side
Speed Limits
IE
Displayed in kilometers per hour (km/h)
US
Displayed in miles per hour (mph)
Alcohol Limits
IE
Legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%
US
Legal blood alcohol limit is typically 0.08%
Pedestrian Crossings
IE
Pedestrians have right of way at crossings
US
Pedestrian crossing rules vary by state
Roundabouts
IE
Traffic flows clockwise
US
Traffic flows counterclockwise
Mobile Phone Use
IE
Hands-free use only
US
Hands-free use only
Seatbelt Laws
IE
Mandatory for all occupants
US
Mandatory for all occupants
Parking Rules
IE
Park in direction of traffic
US
Varies by state, generally park off road
Remember
- • Familiarize yourself with Irish road signs which differ from American signage.
- • Many rural roads in Ireland are narrow and may lack clear markings.
- • Be cautious of animals or cyclists on rural roads.
- • Always carry your driver's license, insurance, and rental documentation.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from United States renting a car in Ireland

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Ireland as a US traveler?

Legally, a valid US driver's license allows you to drive in Ireland for up to 12 months. However, many rental companies require an IDP for official translation and to avoid complications with police or in accidents. It's highly recommended to get an IDP through AAA before your trip.

Are there age restrictions for renting a car in Ireland?

Yes. Most companies require drivers to be between 25 and 75 years old. Drivers aged 21-24 may face high young driver surcharges and limited vehicle options. Drivers over 75 may need medical proof of fitness and could incur extra insurance fees.

Are manual or automatic cars more common in Ireland, and which should I choose?

Manual transmission cars are the standard in Ireland and are cheaper to rent. Automatic vehicles are less common and 30-50% more expensive. If you are not comfortable driving manual, definitely book an automatic to reduce stress, especially since you'll be adjusting to left-side driving and narrow roads.

Given Ireland’s narrow roads, what size car should I rent?

Choose the smallest vehicle that comfortably fits your group and luggage. Compact or economy cars are ideal for maneuvering narrow country roads and tight city streets. Avoid large SUVs unless absolutely necessary.

How far in advance should I book my rental car in Ireland?

Book as early as possible, especially for peak season (June-August) or if you need an automatic. Booking 3-6 months ahead is advised to secure availability and better rates. Use QEEQ to compare prices and find the best deals.

Can I use my US driver’s license to make a reservation?

Yes, you can reserve with your US driver’s license. At pick-up, you’ll need to show your license, passport, IDP (highly recommended), and a credit card for payment and deposit.

What are the rules regarding child car seats in Ireland?

All children under 150 cm (59 inches) or under 12 years old must use an appropriate child car seat. Rental companies offer seats for a fee, but you may want to bring your own or buy one locally for better quality and pricing.

Is an additional driver included in the rental cost?

No, adding an extra driver typically incurs a daily fee. All drivers must be present at pick-up with proper documents. Do not let unregistered drivers operate the vehicle, as it will void the insurance.

Can I pick up a rental in one city and drop it off in another?

Yes, that's a ‘one-way rental’, but it usually comes with a significant one-way fee depending on the distance between locations.

Can I drive my rental car between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland?

Most companies allow cross-border travel but you must notify them during booking. A cross-border fee may apply to ensure insurance covers both regions. Remember, Northern Ireland uses miles and GBP, while the Republic uses kilometers and EUR.

What’s the difference between CDW and Super CDW insurance? Do I need both?

CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) reduces your liability to a set excess (usually €1,500–€3,000). Super CDW further reduces this excess—often to zero. Super CDW gives you peace of mind and is strongly recommended due to Ireland’s road conditions.

Why do rental companies strongly recommend or require Super CDW?

Because Irish roads are narrow and damage is common, companies want to minimize their risk. If you decline Super CDW, a very high deposit (€2,000–€5,000) is frozen on your card. Super CDW lowers your liability and deposit, making the process less stressful.

Can I use my US credit card’s rental insurance in Ireland?

Most US credit cards exclude Ireland from coverage. Even if your card covers it, rental companies rarely accept third-party insurance for their required CDW. You might be forced to pay a huge deposit and could still face issues if an accident occurs.

What is the typical deposit (pre-authorization) if I don’t buy Super CDW?

Expect a hold of €2,000–€5,000 on your credit card, which can tie up your funds for days or weeks and cause financial inconvenience.

What hidden fees should I watch out for when renting a car?

Be aware of airport surcharges, toll administration fees, fuel charges (if not full-to-full), additional driver fees, one-way fees, and confirm if VAT is included in your quote.

What is Theft Protection (TP) and is it included with CDW?

TP covers the risk of vehicle theft and is typically bundled with CDW. It also has an excess, which Super CDW can usually reduce to zero.

Should I buy extra coverage for tires and windscreen?

Super CDW often excludes tires, glass, underbody, and roof damage. Irish rural roads can be rough, so consider purchasing this extra coverage for complete peace of mind if your budget allows.

Is third-party ‘full insurance’ from QEEQ the same as the rental company's Super CDW?

No. QEEQ’s insurance is reimbursement-based: you pay the damage up front, then claim it back. Super CDW from the rental company is direct; you pay nothing if damage occurs.

What happens if I decline all extra insurance?

A very high deposit will be frozen on your card and you’ll owe up to the full excess for any minor damage. Inspection at return will be extremely thorough and stressful.

What’s the best insurance strategy for US visitors?

Budget for the rental company’s Super CDW or similar zero-excess coverage. Treat it as essential for a smooth, worry-free trip.

What’s the pick-up process at Dublin Airport?

Some companies have desks in the arrival halls; others require a free shuttle bus to off-site locations. Check your confirmation and airport signage.

How should I inspect the vehicle at pick-up to avoid unfair charges?

Thoroughly photograph and video the exterior, wheels, mirrors, windows, and interior. Compare with the damage report. Report any unlisted damage to the staff and have it documented before you leave.

How do I avoid misfuelling? What to do if I add the wrong fuel?

Diesel cars are common. In Ireland, black nozzles are diesel, green are petrol (opposite of the US). Check fuel labels on the car. If you misfuel, do not start the engine and call the rental company immediately—repairs are expensive and not covered by insurance.

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

No, using your smartphone with offline Google Maps or Waze is sufficient. Rental GPS units are costly and may have outdated maps. Bring a phone mount for convenience.

Should I inspect the tires during pick-up?

Yes. Check tire pressure and for any visible damage. Ensure there’s a spare tire or repair kit, and know how to access it if needed.

Is it important to photograph the fuel gauge and odometer when picking up the car?

Yes. Take photos to confirm the starting fuel level and mileage, which can prevent disputes at drop-off.

What if my reserved car model isn’t available at pick-up?

The company should provide a free upgrade to a similar or better model. Don’t accept an upsell fee if your reserved class isn’t available.

How much time should I allow for the pick-up process?

During busy periods, allow at least 1 to 1.5 hours for paperwork, inspection, and instructions, especially at large airports.

Is there anything special about the car keys?

Modern keys usually have remote lock/unlock and trunk release. Keep them safe—losing keys incurs a hefty replacement fee and is not covered by basic insurance.

Which contract clauses should I pay special attention to?

Review the final price, included and excluded insurance, excess amounts, fuel policy (should be full-to-full), and any mileage or geographic restrictions before signing.

What’s the best way to adapt to driving on the left side of the road?

Keep repeating ‘Stay Left’ in your mind, have your passenger remind you, follow other cars, and practice in the rental lot before heading out.

How do roundabouts work in Ireland?

Yield to traffic from the right already in the roundabout. Use turn signals: left for the first exit, right for later exits, and switch to left as you approach your exit. Stay in the correct lane based on your planned exit.

What are the main types of roads in Ireland (M, N, R, L)?

M roads are motorways (highways), N roads are national primary/secondary roads, R roads are regional roads, and L roads are local roads—often very narrow. Adjust your speed and comfort level accordingly.

Are speed limits posted in kilometers or miles per hour?

In the Republic of Ireland, speed limits are in kilometers per hour (km/h). In Northern Ireland, they’re in miles per hour (mph).

How do I pay the M50 motorway toll in Dublin?

The M50 uses barrier-free e-tolling. You must pay online at eFlow.ie, by phone, or at Payzone outlets by 8pm the next day, or face fines and rental company admin fees.

Will I understand Irish road signs?

Most signs use international symbols. Place names are in both Irish and English. Direction signs are white (general), brown (tourist), or blue (motorway).

What are the parking rules in towns and cities?

Look for ‘Pay and Display’ zones. Buy a ticket from a machine, display it on your dashboard, and check time limits. Double yellow lines mean no parking at any time.

How strict are Ireland’s DUI (drunk driving) laws?

Ireland has very strict and low blood alcohol limits. As a visitor, adopt a zero-tolerance approach: never drink and drive.

Will I encounter livestock on rural roads?

Yes, especially sheep. Be patient, stop, and let them cross. Never honk—enjoy the unique experience!

Is it safe to drive rural roads at night?

Rural roads are often unlit and very dark at night. Avoid nighttime driving in unfamiliar areas if possible. If you must, drive slowly and use high beams appropriately.

What is the typical car return process?

Return the car to the designated area, have it inspected, and get a final receipt. Keep this documentation. For after-hours returns, use the key drop box—your car will be inspected later.

What does ‘full-to-full’ fuel policy mean?

You receive the car with a full tank and must return it full. Always refill at the nearest station before drop-off and keep the receipt in case proof is required.

Do I need to clean the car before returning it?

Not unless it is excessively dirty inside. Normal road dust is fine, but excessive dirt or trash can incur a cleaning fee.

What should I do if I have a minor accident with the rental car?

Stay calm and safe, contact the rental company immediately, photograph the damage, and fill out an accident report. Never attempt private repairs.

What if the car breaks down during my rental?

Move to a safe area and call the rental company’s 24-hour roadside assistance. This service is included in all reputable rentals.

What is the emergency number in Ireland?

Dial 112 or 999 for police, fire, or ambulance services.

Should I keep all rental-related documents?

Yes, keep your contract, inspection sheet, receipts, and fuel slips until your credit card statement is clear and all charges are finalized.

How long does it take to release the deposit on my credit card after return?

It usually takes 5–15 business days, depending on your card issuer and rental company. If it takes more than a month, contact your card provider and then the rental company.

Are there any unwritten etiquette rules for driving in Ireland?

Yes: thank drivers who let you pass (wave or flash lights), pull over to let faster traffic by on narrow roads, and be courteous at all times.

What is your most important advice for US drivers renting a car in Ireland?

Slow down and enjoy the journey. Plan shorter daily drives, embrace small roads as part of the adventure, purchase full insurance, and savor the unique scenery and culture of Ireland.

Still have questions？

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

Car Rental in Ireland for US Travelers

Embarking on your road trip to explore Ireland's breathtaking landscapes and historical sites can be thrilling. US travelers renting cars in Ireland often face unique considerations.

Can US Citizens Drive in Ireland?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Travelers from the US

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Popular Destinations in Ireland

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Money-Saving Tips for Car Rentals in Ireland

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

What Are The Differences Between US and Irish Traffic Rules

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations