General Speed Limits and Road Signs

The general speed limit in Ireland is 50 km/h in urban areas (approx. 30 mph). Regional roads should be driven at 80km/h, national roads 100km/h, and motorways 120km/h.

Road signs play a pivotal role in ensuring your road safety. It's vital that you are aware of what each sign means and how to follow its instructions correctly. It's not just speed and directional signs that need to be understood, but rather the multitude of signs that line Irish roads.

Take some time to familiarise yourself with Ireland's road signs, otherwise you may find yourself missing your motorway exit or getting lost.

General Rules

Drive on the Left

In Ireland, people must drive on the left side of the road. This may seem obvious but many drivers forget one of the main rules of driving in a new country; driving on the correct side of the road.

Seatbelts

Seatbelts must be worn at all times by the driver and all passengers while driving in Ireland. Not wearing a seatbelt is considered an offence and can result in fines and penalties.

Make sure you and your passengers buckle up before each journey.

Roundabouts

Roundabouts are common in Ireland. The purpose of a roundabout is to reduce delays and ensure traffic flows smoothly. They also minimise the risk of collisions, while they reduce a car's emissions when compared to a car waiting at a set of traffic lights.

Negotiating roundabouts can be tricky but once you know the rules they're pretty straight forward. Think of a four exit roundabout with two lanes. Imagine the roundabout is cut in half vertically to the position of your car. If you are taking an exit on the left half of the roundabout then approach from the left lane and stay in the left lane until you exit. If you are exiting on the right half of the roundabout approach from the right lane and stay in the left lane until you exit.

Above all else, always give way to your right-hand side.

When making a left turn

When making a right turn

Driving Licence

Non residents do not require an Irish drivers licence to drive in Ireland. Alternatively, the licence of your country is accepted as long as you adhere to the Irish rules of the road.

Insurance

Car insurance is compulsory in Ireland. Be sure to get the details from your rental company if you're not already insured in Ireland.

If you are permanently entering the country, then you will need to arrange an insurance policy on your vehicle. This may be car insurance, motorcycle insurance, or commercial van insurance.