Driving in Ireland

Driving in Ireland can be fun and exciting and it’s a great way to see the country, but as almost anyone that has driven there will agree, sometimes it can be a bit of an adventure.  From winding narrow roads, to roads with no lane markings, animals on the road, the weather conditions and quite a few other hazards it’s a wonder anyone gets around.  Well they do, and if you’re prepared for what’s in store, then you will too.

I always advise friends in the US who are visiting Ireland to rent a car that is no bigger than what they need.  When driving in most parts of the US (maybe with the exception of inner-city driving) there’s so much room for each car.  When driving in Ireland you’ll find you’re not afforded so much room.  I’ve heard people say “it’s like driving in a bike lane!”  A little bit of exaggeration, but you get the point.

Typical Irish countryside road

Cars in Ireland, like England, Australia and a few other countries, are driven on the left (opposite of the USA).  Of course the cars steering wheel is then on the right, which can take a little getting used to for a lot of tourists.  A good tip that I try to use is to tape or stick a little note somewhere you’ll see it every time you sit in to remind you to drive on the left.  It may sound silly, but plenty of people have made the mistake of driving on the side they’re used to, which can obviously turn out for the worst.  I’ve had plenty of chuckles to myself when I’ve sat in to the car in Ireland and reached for the wheel, only to realize I sat in at the wrong side J  I’m glad it was that I was doing, and not pulling out on to the wrong side of the road.

Renting a car in Ireland is similar to renting a car anywhere else in the world.  You need a valid license and usually a credit card or cash deposit.  Check the insurance and license requirements before you go.  All the major car rental companies, Hertz, National, Avis etc, have offices there, so you won’t have a hard time finding a rental.  What may come as a surprise to a lot of tourists though is that almost all cars in Ireland are manual (stick shift) and not automatic.  Of course the rental companies do offer automatic cars, but the cost factor is significantly more.  If someone in your group can drive a manually operated car then you’re gonna save a few Euro/$.   And you’ve found your designated driver J, which brings me to “don’t drink and drive”.

Obviously drink and driving is dangerous, and illegal.  It’s just better that you don’t do it.  Taxi services in Ireland are readily available, and public transport is always a good option.  I’m sure wherever you’re staying the staff can provide the info you need to get to where you want to go.  Police (called Garda in Ireland) checkpoints are quite frequent on Irish roads.  Chances are high they will breathalyze you if they stop you, so be prepared.  The culture to drinking and driving has changed a lot in the last 10-15 years.  There was a time when basically there was no limit on what you could drink before driving.  But now the laws are very strict, for the better, and the limit is effectively zero tolerance.

It's not uncommon to see tractors on the road

A few things to note: 1. Turning on a red light is not allowed.  2. Roundabouts (traffic circles) are very common, so do a little research on them if you’re not used to them.  Basically the traffic in a roundabout has the right-of-way and entering traffic must yield. 3. Road markings are a bit different e.g. double yellow line = a US red zone (no parking).  4. Parallel parking is more common, so you will find a space faster if you can do this.  5. Don’t be afraid to ask people you pass for directions (they love to chat).  Directions are usually given by land markings and not road names.  6. Talking while on a mobile/cell phone is not allowed.

I know this post may seem like a little bit of a downer, pointing out dangers, a few rules of the road etc.  But it’s better to be aware than not.  That way you can plan.  I would like to say that driving in Ireland is the best way you are going to see the country, probably the most affordable, and it also gives you the freedom to go where you please and when you want.  You will be able to take in some spectacular scenery and take detours to some amazing little places that you may not be able to do if you are on a tour bus.

Enjoy, and be safe!

Next blog: Points of Interest