Car Rental in Ireland

Why Rent a Car in Ireland? 

Ireland (also known as the Republic of Ireland) is famous for its traditional Irish pubs, the country has lots to offer the discerning traveler, from a wealth and depth of Gaelic history & culture to a beautiful countryside. Renting a car in Ireland allows you to explore different sides of this country at your own pace.

Some of the top destinations and attractions in Ireland include:

- Dublin – a lively, historic city surrounded by outstanding natural beauty. Within minutes from the city, you could set off to the gothic-styled Dublin Castle, Kilmainham Gaol or enjoy beer tasting at the world-famous Guinness Storehouse.

- Donegal – home to the restored Donegal Castle. From here, you can start the “Wild Atlantic Way” scenic drive and stop in the Céide Fields, which is home to Stone Age structures and tombs.

- Cliffs of Moher – one of the iconic sights for its outstanding natural beauty and heaven for wildlife. The attraction is just few-hour out of Dublin. 

- Ring of Kerry – filled with rugged coastal landscapes and traditional villages, the scenic drive around the Iveragh Peninsula in Southwestern Ireland won’t disappoint you. 

Airport and Neighborhood Car Rental Locations Throughout Ireland

Enterprise Rent-A-Car has 6 locations in both international and domestic airport terminals across Ireland, many are open 24/7. There are also over 20+ neighborhood locations for visitors looking to explore cities, country sides, and the coasts of Ireland.

What is the Minimum Age to Rent a Car in Ireland?

To rent a vehicle in Ireland, the minimum age is 25. Drivers must hold a license in the country of rental for 8 years to rent A-F class vehicles, 11 years for MPVs, and 13 years for Small Premiums. 

What do I Need to Rent a Car in Ireland?

You will need the following items to rent a car in Ireland:

- A valid driver’s license (for non-EU visitors, an international drivers permit is required if the license is not written in English).

- Valid ID (driver’s license or passport can be used)

- Credit or debit card. Debit cards will require an ID and address verification

- International travelers must also show passport, proof of return travel & residency information.

Do I Need Car Rental Insurance and Protection Products in Ireland?

No. When renting a car in Ireland, you don't need to purchase insurance as we provide a damage waiver included in the cost of your car rental. You have the option to purchase additional protection products to reduce the excess further to give you peace of mind.

Can I Rent a Car One-Way in Ireland?

Enterprise customers may rent a car in Ireland and drop it off at a different domestic location. However, cross-border rental from Ireland to another country is not available. For additional information, please start a reservation above.

What are Top Tips for Driving in Ireland?

When driving in Ireland, there a few key things to remember:

- Ireland drives on the left, like the rest of the British Isles.

- Unless specified otherwise, the speed limit in cities and built-up areas is 50km/h, 80km/h on Regional roads labelled with R, 100km/h on National roads (designated with N) and 120km/h on motorways.

- Some roads in Ireland have tolls and most of those do not take cards, so make sure you have some spare change in Euros to pay with.

- Dublin’s M50 orbital motorway is a great way to avoid the busy city roads, although during peak hours allow extra time due to possible traffic. The M50 has speed limits ranging from 120km/h to 80km/h in the Airport Motorway-Port Tunnel section.

- Rural coastal roads and some in-land roads can get very tight and often have stone walls on each side, so be wary of oncoming traffic on tight turns where visibility is obstructed.

- If you use a GPS map or a mobile app that warns you of speed cameras, you must turn the function off due to such equipment being illegal in Ireland.

- In emergencies, dial 112 to contact the police, ambulance or fire services.