●Issued in as fast as 8 minutesInstant digital delivery to your inboxRecognised in 195+ countries
International Driver LicenceOfficial-format IDP booklet service
Home/Rental Companies/National/Ireland
National · Ireland

Does National require an IDP in Ireland?

Recommended
Ireland lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
Get my permit for Ireland All National requirements
National in Ireland
National IDP policyRequired for non-Roman-alphabet licences
National footprintGlobal
Accepted formatBoth
Minimum rental age17+ (surcharge under 25)
Drives on theLeft

National in Ireland: the policy in plain terms

Requires an IDP for non-Latin-alphabet licences and where local regulations require it. Business-traveller brand known for Emerald Aisle.

Visitors may drive in Ireland on a valid foreign licence; an IDP is advised for non-English, non-EU licences.

In Ireland specifically, ireland lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter. Recommended for non-EU licences and required for some non-Latin scripts.

National runs a global network; at its Ireland desks, foreign renters are asked for the Both-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Ireland drives on the left, uses the EUR, and sets a minimum driving age of 17; an IDP is still the safest way to avoid a refused booking.

What to bring to the National counter in Ireland

  • Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
  • Your International Driving Permit in the Both format.
  • Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
  • Local payment for the EUR deposit; Ireland drives on the left with a young-driver surcharge under 25.

Driving rules in Ireland National renters should know

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

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to rent from National in Ireland?
Ireland lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
02
What documents should I bring to the National desk in Ireland?
Bring your original national driving licence, your International Driving Permit in the Both format, your passport, and the payment card in the main driver's name. Ireland drives on the left and the minimum rental age is typically 17+.
03
What is National's general policy on International Driving Permits?
Requires an IDP for non-Latin-alphabet licences and where local regulations require it. Business-traveller brand known for Emerald Aisle.
All National countriesDriving in Ireland