Ireland is a popular tourist destination with a diverse landscape of stunning natural beauty, historic sites, and vibrant cities. Renting a car can be a convenient way to explore the country, but it’s important to understand the local rules and requirements before you do so. In this article, we’ll discuss the rules and requirements for renting a car in Ireland and provide a list of major car rental companies in the country.
Rules and Requirements for Renting a Car in Ireland
To rent a car in Ireland, you must have a valid driver’s license from your home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English or Irish. Some rental companies may also require you to have a credit card in your name to hold as a security deposit.
When renting a car in Ireland, it’s important to obtain the necessary insurance coverage. Most rental companies offer Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) insurance, which covers damage to the rental vehicle in case of an accident. However, this coverage may come with a high excess, or deductible, which means you could still be liable for a significant amount of money in case of damage or theft. To reduce your excess, you may need to purchase additional insurance or opt for a higher level of coverage.
It’s also important to note that driving in Ireland can be challenging for foreign visitors. The roads can be narrow and winding, and driving on the left-hand side of the road can take some getting used to. Additionally, many roads in rural areas are in poor condition, and driving in inclement weather can be hazardous. It’s important to exercise caution when driving in Ireland and to familiarize yourself with the country’s driving laws and regulations.
Finally, it’s important to note that Ireland has strict laws against drinking and driving. The legal blood alcohol limit is lower than in many other countries, and penalties for driving under the influence can be severe.
Major Car Rental Companies in Ireland
There are several car rental companies operating in Ireland, including both international and local brands. Below are some of the major car rental companies you can choose from:
Avis
Avis is one of the largest car rental companies in the world, with locations in over 165 countries. In Ireland, Avis has rental locations in major cities such as Dublin, Cork, and Galway, as well as at major airports throughout the country. They offer a range of vehicle types, from economy cars to luxury vehicles. You can book your rental online through their website, and they offer a rewards program for frequent renters.
Website: https://www.avis.ie/
Hertz
Hertz is another well-known car rental company with locations in Ireland. They have rental locations in major cities such as Dublin, Cork, and Galway, as well as at major airports throughout the country. Hertz offers a range of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles. You can book your rental online through their website, and they offer a rewards program for frequent renters.
Website: https://www.hertz.ie/
Budget
Budget is a global car rental company with locations in over 120 countries. In Ireland, they have rental locations in major cities such as Dublin, Cork, and Galway, as well as at major airports throughout the country. Budget offers a range of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles. You can book your rental online through their website, and they offer a rewards program for frequent renters.
Website: https://www.budget.ie/
Europcar
Europcar is a popular car rental company with locations in Ireland. They have rental locations in major cities such as Dublin, Cork, and Galway, as well as at major airports throughout the country. Europcar offers a range of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles. You can book your rental online through their website, and they offer a rewards program for frequent renters.
Website: https://www.europcar.ie/
Enterprise
Enterprise is a global car rental company with locations in over 100 countries. In Ireland, they have rental locations in major cities such as Dublin, Cork, and Galway, as well as at major airports throughout the country. Enterprise offers a range of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles. You can book your rental online through their website, and they offer a rewards program for frequent renters.
Website: https://www.enterprise.ie/en/home.html
Irish Car Rentals
Irish Car Rentals is a local car rental company with locations in major cities throughout Ireland, including Dublin, Cork, and Galway. They offer a range of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles. You can book your rental online through their website, and they offer free pickup and drop-off services for rentals of three days or more.
Website: https://www.irishcarrentals.com/
Dooley Car Rentals
Dooley Car Rentals is another local car rental company with locations in major cities throughout Ireland. They offer a range of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles. You can book your rental online through their website, and they offer free pickup and drop-off services for rentals of three days or more.
Website: https://www.dan-dooley.ie/
Renting a car in Ireland can be a great way to explore the country at your own pace, but it’s important to be aware of the local rules and requirements. Make sure you have a valid driver’s license and International Driving Permit (if required), obtain the necessary insurance coverage, and exercise caution when driving in Ireland. With several major car rental companies and local rental companies operating in the country, you can choose the one that best suits your needs and book your rental online for a hassle-free experience.
