This resource is designed to address these queries with clear and actionable advice, ensuring a seamless car rental experience in Ireland.
Yes, Spanish travelers can legally drive in Ireland with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.
Form of ID:
A valid passport.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
or
• EU/EEA Driving License.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted credit cards include Visa and Master.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 21 and 80 years old to rent a car.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Explore reliable car rental options in Ireland, from internationally recognized chains to local providers offering unique experiences.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands
Hertz
Locations:
39Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Europcar
Locations:
128Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and corporate rentals
SIXT
Locations:
47Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking quality and flexibility
Hertz
Locations:
25Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Enterprise
Locations:
139Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and business trips
Hertz
Locations:
62Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Keddy by Europcar
Locations:
89Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
PAYLESS
Locations:
21Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
FLIZZR
Locations:
13Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and those seeking flexibility
Easirent
Locations:
7Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and familiesChoosing the right rental car can make your trip more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases): Perfect for city driving and short trips
Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases): Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases): Comfortable for longer distances
Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases): Ideal for families and group travel
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
Automatic transmission: Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in USA
Manual transmission: Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
Most Irish drivers prefer automatic for city and countryside road trips
Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and manual cars
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
Basic liability: Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
Theft protection: Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
Personal insurance: Check if your ES insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Understand booking flexibility and fees
Free cancellation: Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter: Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
Change fees: Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
Travel insurance: Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
Unlimited mileage: Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
Limited mileage: Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Understand fuel requirements and costs
Full-to-Full: Return with same fuel level, most economical option
Full-to-Empty: Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
Same-to-Same: Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
Pre-purchase fuel options: Compare costs with local gas station prices
Quick Decision Guide
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Dublin, Cork, GalwayMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-country in IrelandConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry
Compare with Confidence on QEEQ
Ireland is home to stunning landscapes and vibrant cities. Popular destinations include Dublin, Galway, Cork, and the scenic Wild Atlantic Way. Renting a car is ideal for discovering Ireland's hidden gems and iconic sites.
Traveling from Spain to Ireland? Here's what you need to know about car rental insurance. While basic insurance is mandatory, additional coverage could save you from unexpected expenses in case of incidents.
Covers damage to your rental vehicle due to accidents or theft.
Protects you against the cost of theft of the rental car.
Covers damages to other people's property or injuries caused by you while driving the rental car.
Provides medical expense coverage for you and your passengers in case of an accident.
Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Ireland. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Booking in advance and choosing the right options can help travelers from Spain save significantly when renting a car in Ireland. Here's how you can make the most of your money.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Ireland.
Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.
Driving regulations in Spain and Ireland differ in various aspects, including driving sides, speed limits, and road signage. However, there are also similarities in road safety practices.
Driving Side
Drive on the left side of the road
Drive on the right side of the road
Speed Limits
Displayed in kilometers per hour (km/h) with varying limits
Displayed in kilometers per hour (km/h) with distinct limits
Roundabout Entry
Yield to traffic coming from the right
Yield to traffic already in the roundabout
Blood Alcohol Limit
0.05% BAC but may vary for professional drivers
0.05% BAC but stricter enforcement in some areas
Mobile Phone Use
Hands-free systems are mandatory
Hands-free systems are mandatory
Seatbelt Usage
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
