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Europe travel guide

Driving in Ireland with a foreign licence

IDP recommended
You can drive in Ireland on a valid foreign licence; an IDP is recommended. Visitors may drive in Ireland on a valid foreign licence; an IDP is advised for non-English, non-EU licences.
The essentials
Drives onThe left
IDP neededRecommended
Minimum age17+
ConventionBoth
On the road

Rules of the road in Ireland

  • Drive on the left.
  • Speed limits posted in km/h.
  • Seatbelts mandatory.
  • 0.05% alcohol limit; 0.02% for learner/novice drivers.

At the rental desk

Recommended for non-EU licences and required for some non-Latin scripts.

Common questions

01
Can I drive in Ireland with a foreign licence?
Yes, visitors may drive on a valid foreign licence in Ireland; carry an IDP if your licence is not in the Roman alphabet.
02
Which side of the road does Ireland drive on?
Ireland drives on the left.
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