What Side of the Road Do They Drive on in Ireland?
Exploring Ireland by car is an incredible journey. There’s something for everyone, from the vast green hills that blanket the countryside to the rugged coastline hugging the wild Atlantic Ocean.
Whether you’re a first-time driver or a seasoned veteran, taking a road trip through Ireland can be an adventure of a lifetime.
Natural beauty abounds at every turn, from the rolling hills dotted with sheep to the cliffs and beaches of Connemara.
And if you take your time exploring quaint villages and picturesque towns, you may find yourself lost in time.
But, what side of the road do they drive on in Ireland? Let’s jump in and look at all the essentials you will need to know before you hit the road.
What Side of the Road Do They Drive on in Ireland?
Just like in the UK they drive on the left hand side of the road in Ireland. For many people worldwide, driving on the left hand side is feels very unnatural but is not as hard as it sounds.
How to Drive in Ireland
There are a few things to keep in mind when driving in Ireland:
- The roads are usually narrow and winding, so be mindful of your speed and stay alert
- Just because you can’t see other drivers doesn’t mean they aren’t there: Make sure to check your mirrors regularly and use your indicator when turning
- You should also be mindful of the unique driving laws in Ireland: right turns on red lights aren’t allowed, for example
What is the Speed Limit in Ireland?
The speed limits on the roads depending on the type of road you are driving on and are displayed on white signs in black text inside a red ring.
All speed limits in the Republic of Ireland are in kilometers per hour.
In urban areas, the speed limit is 30 miles (50km) while single open roads have a speed limit of 50 miles (80km).
National roads, marked by a green sign, have a maximum speed limit of 60 miles (100km).
The highest speed limit is found on motorways where you can drive up to 74 miles (120km).
Remembering these speed limits as failure to comply with them may result in penalties or fines from law enforcement.
Road Signs in Ireland
In Ireland you will find three major types of road signs:
Areas of Interest: These signs are black with white letters
Direction Signs: These are Blue on major roads and dual carriage ways, green on national roads and white on local roads
Place names and distances: These will be written in gaelic and English and most often in kilometers. Closer to the border with Northern Ireland you may find kilometers and miles.
Driving in Ireland as a Tourist
Driving in Ireland as a tourist is pretty easy once you are used to the narrow, windy roads, the speed limits and driving on the left hand side of the road.
There are a couple of things you will need to know before you drive in Ireland:
- Tourists must be at least 17 years old (however most car hire companies require you to be at least 25)
- You need to hold a full valid drivers licence
- You must have car insurance
- You will need to carry your passport with you
Driving in Ireland Requirements
Drivers from the United States, Canada, the European Union, United Kingdom or Australia can drive in Ireland on their normal full valid licence.
If you are from another country you will need to determine whether you require an International Drivers licence.
Most drivers licences allow you to drive in Ireland for 12 months.
As a tourist, you must also have full third party cover when it comes to insurance. If you are using your credit card insurance you will need a letter from them to state that they will cover you in the case of an accident.
You must also carry registration documents or your rental agreement with you at all times.
Irish Driving Laws
1. Seat Belts
All passengers must wear seat belts at all times. Children under 150 cm must be in a booster or approved car seat.
2. Alocohol
The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5 mg of alcohol per mL of blood for a fully licenced driver.
3. Mobile Phones are Prohibited
When driving a vehicle you are not permitted to use your mobile device for any purpose. You must have your phone in an appropriate cradle if you wish to use it hands free.
4. Drive on the Left Hand Side of the Road
On all roads in Ireland you are required to drive on the left hand side of the road.
5. Give Way to the Right
At all intersections and round abouts you need to give way to your right.
Toll Roads in Ireland
When driving around Ireland you need to be mindful of the toll roads. Even if you are hiring a car you are reasonable for paying these tolls.
Some of the tolls roads to be mindful of are the Limerick Tunnel (N18), M8 and East Link (Tom Clarke Bridge). For these toll roads you will need to pay in cash at the toll booth.
Most toll roads around Ireland are payable by credit or debit card or you can e-toll electronic tag if you are driving around Ireland for a long period of time.
Petrol Stations and Service Stations in Ireland
There are around 1,500 petrol stations in Ireland. There are more petrol stations in big cities, towns and on major motorways.
On big motorways you will find service stations that have toilets, places to eat and playgrounds for children.
Often there are restaurants as well as smaller fast-food outlets such as McDonalds and Starbucks.
If you are heading into a smaller or rural area it is wise to fill up on petrol before you go as petrol maybe limited or very expensive.
Driving in Dublin
Dublin has a reputation for being very hard to navigate in a car but this mainly because when people first arrive in Ireland they land in Dublin and are getting used to driving on the left hand side of the road.
During peak hour and rush hour the traffic can be quite bad so it is recommended you avoid these times.
When driving in Dublin or on Irish roads you do not need to give way to pediestrians like in many other cities around the world. However, pedestrians do still expect for you to stop for them so keep your eyes out for people stepping out onto the road.
Make sure you stick to the speed limit as the Garda do catch people who are speeding, they may give ignore a kilometer or two over but err on the side of caution and travel at the speed limit.
Driving in Northern Ireland
Driving in Northern Ireland is very similar to drive in the Repbulic of Ireland expect the speed limits are in miles.
The roads in Northern Ireland can be very narrow and often are single lanes roads. On single lane roads you will need to find a passing place when coming up to on coming traffic.
FAQs: Driving in Southern Ireland
Do They Drive on the Left in Ireland?
Yes, they do drive on the left in Ireland.
Do you need an International Driver’s License in Ireland?
Visitors from Canada, United Kingdom, United States, Australia and the European Union do not require an international driver’s licence to drive in Ireland.
What is the legal age for driving in Ireland?
The legal age for driving in Ireland is 17 years old.
What age can you start driving in Ireland?
You can start driving in Ireland at 17 years old.
What side of the road do they drive on in England?
In England they drive on the left hand side of the road.
Final Thoughts: Driving in the Republic of Ireland
Driving in Ireland can be an unforgettable experience, and the most important rule to remember is that they drive on the left side of the road.
So if you’re visiting Ireland for a holiday or planning an extended stay, make sure you get used to driving on the left before hitting the roads!
Are you planning a road trip around Ireland and Northern Ireland? Check out my 7 day Itinerary
Related Posts:
♦ Is Dublin in Northern Ireland or Southern Ireland?
♦ The Complete Guide to visiting the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
♦ The Best guide to Slea Head Drive, Dingle Peninsula
♦ The perfect 7 day driving tour of Ireland and Northern Ireland
♦ 15 Best Scenic Drives in Ireland to See the Emerald Isle
♦ 11 Amazing things you must do in Dublin
♦ Giant’s Causeway: 10 Ultimate things you need to know
