Dublin Airport car hire
Compare car hire from trusted providers
Save big on car hire at Dublin Airport
Search for airport pick-up locations, open 24/7
Driving in Dublin: What to expect on the road
Documents you'll need Bring your licence, passport and credit card. To rent a car in Dublin, you’ll need a full driving licence (in English), your passport, and a credit card. An International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required if your licence is non-EU or not in English. |
Navigating city driving Left-hand driving with narrow roads. Driving in Dublin means adjusting to left-hand driving, tight city lanes, and complex junctions. Use sat nav to avoid bus-only streets and peak-hour delays. |
Tolls, emissions zones and charges Expect toll roads outside the city. Toll roads in Dublin like the M50 use barrier-free eToll systems. Check if your rental includes toll coverage — if not, you must pay online before 8pm the next day to avoid penalties. |
Parking your car in Dublin Parking is paid and often restricted. Parking in Dublin is managed with colour-coded zones and pay-and-display systems. Central areas are busy, but you’ll find hotel parking and multi-storey car parks in key locations. |
Finding fuel or charging points Fuel is accessible — EV charging is improving. Petrol stations are available across Dublin. For EVs, use PlugShare or the ESB ecars app to find EV charging stations Dublin. Some chargers require app access or RFID cards, so check ahead.
|
Local driving style and tips Drivers are careful and the roads are narrow. Driving in Dublin is calm but often slow, with tight turns and busy streets. Look out for bus lanes, follow roundabout signs, and give way when unsure — most drivers are patient. |