Dublin

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Car Rentals

Car rentals are an option for visitors and new residents who want flexibility to travel in and around Dublin.

Sections

1. Rental Companies in Dublin

Dublin has a wide range of car rental companies, both international and local. Most rental companies have offices at Dublin Airport and in the city center. Some of the most popular options include:

  • International Companies:

    • Hertz
    • Avis
    • Enterprise
    • Budget
    • Europcar
    • Sixt
    • Thrifty

  • Local Companies:

    • Dooley Car Rentals
    • Dan Dooley
    • Irish Car Rentals

Tip: International companies often have more streamlined booking processes and better customer service, but local companies may offer competitive rates and more flexible policies.

2. Costs of Renting a Car

The cost of renting a car in Dublin depends on several factors, including the type of car, rental duration, and time of year. Below is a general breakdown:

  • Daily Rental Rates:

    • Economy cars: โ‚ฌ30โ€“โ‚ฌ60 per day
    • Compact cars: โ‚ฌ50โ€“โ‚ฌ80 per day
    • SUVs or larger vehicles: โ‚ฌ80โ€“โ‚ฌ150 per day
    • Luxury cars: โ‚ฌ150+ per day

  • Additional Costs:

    • Insurance (see below for details)
    • Fuel (petrol or diesel)
    • GPS rental: โ‚ฌ10โ€“โ‚ฌ15 per day (or use your smartphone)
    • Child seats: โ‚ฌ10โ€“โ‚ฌ15 per day
    • Additional driver fee: โ‚ฌ10โ€“โ‚ฌ15 per day
    • Young driver surcharge (if applicable): โ‚ฌ20โ€“โ‚ฌ40 per day

Tip: Book in advance to secure better rates, especially during peak tourist seasons (summer and holidays).

3. Insurance Requirements

Car rental insurance is a critical aspect of renting a car in Ireland. Most rental companies offer several types of coverage:

  • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): This is typically included in the base rental price but often comes with a high excess (deductible) of โ‚ฌ1,000โ€“โ‚ฌ2,500. You can reduce the excess by purchasing additional coverage.
  • Super CDW (Excess Waiver): Reduces or eliminates the excess for an additional daily fee (โ‚ฌ15โ€“โ‚ฌ30 per day).
  • Third-Party Liability Insurance: Mandatory and usually included in the rental price.
  • Theft Protection: Covers theft of the vehicle.
  • Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): Optional, covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers.

Important Note: Many credit cards (e.g., Visa, Mastercard) offer car rental insurance as a benefit. However, Irish rental companies often do not accept this unless you provide written proof from your credit card provider. Check with your card issuer before traveling.

4. Age Restrictions

  • Minimum Age: Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old.
  • Young Driver Surcharge: Drivers under 25 may face additional fees.
  • Maximum Age: Some companies have an upper age limit (e.g., 75 years). If you are over this age, you may need to provide proof of good health or a letter from your insurance provider.

5. Driving License Requirements

  • EU/EEA Licenses: Valid for renting and driving in Ireland.
  • Non-EU Licenses: Accepted if written in English or accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • License Duration: Most companies require you to have held your license for at least one year.

Tip: Always carry your driving license, passport, and rental agreement while driving.

6. Fuel Policies

Rental companies typically offer one of the following fuel policies:

  • Full-to-Full: You receive the car with a full tank and must return it full. This is the most cost-effective option.
  • Prepaid Fuel: You pay for a full tank upfront and can return the car empty. However, this is usually more expensive.

Tip: Opt for the full-to-full policy and refuel at a local petrol station before returning the car to avoid high refueling charges.

7. Booking Procedures

  • Online Booking: Most rental companies allow you to book online through their websites or third-party platforms like Rentalcars.com or Kayak. Booking online often provides better rates and allows you to compare options.
  • Walk-In Booking: Available at Dublin Airport and city center locations, but prices may be higher, and availability may be limited.

Documents Required for Booking:

  • Valid driving license
  • Passport or national ID
  • Credit card (in the primary driverโ€™s name)

8. Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations

  • Dublin Airport: The most convenient location for international travelers. Rental desks are located in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, with car pick-up areas nearby.
  • City Center: Several rental offices are located in central Dublin, such as on Pearse Street or near St. Stephenโ€™s Green.
  • One-Way Rentals: Some companies allow you to pick up the car in Dublin and drop it off in another city (e.g., Cork or Galway) for an additional fee.

Tip: Confirm the exact pick-up and drop-off locations when booking, as some companies have off-site locations requiring a shuttle.

9. Local Considerations

  • Driving on the Left: In Ireland, you drive on the left side of the road. This may take some adjustment if youโ€™re used to driving on the right.
  • Roundabouts: Ireland has many roundabouts. Yield to traffic coming from the right and follow the signs for your exit.
  • Speed Limits:
    • Motorways: 120 km/h
    • National roads: 100 km/h
    • Regional roads: 80 km/h
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h
  • Parking:
    • Dublin has limited parking in the city center. Use public car parks or pay-and-display zones.
    • Avoid parking in bus lanes or restricted areas to avoid fines.
    • Parking fees vary but are typically โ‚ฌ2โ€“โ‚ฌ4 per hour in central areas.
  • Toll Roads: Some motorways in Ireland have tolls (e.g., the M50 around Dublin). Payment can be made online or at toll booths. The M50 uses an electronic toll system, so check with your rental company if the car is registered for toll payments.

10. Practical Tips

  • Inspect the Car: Before driving off, inspect the car for any existing damage and ensure itโ€™s documented in the rental agreement.
  • Emergency Numbers: The emergency number in Ireland is 112 or 999. For roadside assistance, use the number provided by your rental company.
  • Navigation: Use Google Maps or a GPS device. Be aware that some rural areas may have limited mobile coverage.
  • Driving Etiquette: Irish drivers are generally courteous. Use your indicators, and donโ€™t rushโ€”especially on narrow country roads.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to rent a car in Dublin and enjoy a smooth driving experience in Ireland. Safe travels!