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World Driving Permit

🇮🇪 Do you need an IDP to drive in Ireland?

IDP recommended· the 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 13 Jun 2026

Key facts

IDP validity
Up to 3 years, or until your licence expires
Driving side
Left-hand
Minimum driving age
17+ years

Short answer

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Ireland, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Ireland follows the 1968 Vienna Convention. Carry it alongside your original national licence. A certified translation of your licence smooths rental-desk and police checks, but it does not replace the IDP where one is required.

Driving in Ireland: the rule explained

Ireland recognizes EU and UK licences fully. Non-EU visitors may drive for 12 months. An IDP is recommended for non-English-script licences. Ireland drives on the LEFT.

Renting a car in Ireland

Dublin and Cork airport rental desks accept EU/UK and IDP licences. Note: left-hand traffic.

What to carry when driving in Ireland

  • Original driving license (physical card)
  • Passport with valid visa/entry stamp
  • Translation companion or certified translation of your license
  • Proof of insurance covering the destination
  • Note: Ireland drives on the LEFT side of the road
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Translation companion

A certified, multi-language translation of your licence to carry alongside it. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Ireland: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Ireland?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Ireland, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Ireland follows the 1968 Vienna Convention. Carry it alongside your original national licence. A certified translation of your licence smooths rental-desk and police checks, but it does not replace the IDP where one is required. Ireland recognizes EU and UK licences fully. Non-EU visitors may drive for 12 months. An IDP is recommended for non-English-script licences. Ireland drives on the LEFT.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Ireland?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Ireland read your licence, but where Ireland requires an IDP it must be one issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Always carry your original national licence with it.
What do I need to rent a car in Ireland?
Dublin and Cork airport rental desks accept EU/UK and IDP licences. Note: left-hand traffic.
Which IDP convention does Ireland use?
Ireland recognises IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Make sure your IDP is issued by your own country's authorised issuer under the matching convention.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid in Ireland?
Because Ireland follows the 1968 Vienna Convention, an IDP is valid for up to three years, or until your national licence expires — whichever comes first. The permit is only valid alongside your original national licence, and it cannot be renewed — you apply for a new one from your home country's authorised issuer when it lapses.
What is the minimum age to drive in Ireland?
Visitors generally need to be at least 17 to drive in Ireland; car-rental companies often set a higher minimum age and add a young-driver surcharge. Always confirm the age terms with your specific rental provider.

Official sources

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? How to get an IDP from an authorised issuer.

Driving to Ireland from your country

In-depth driving guides

Real-world driving and IDP guides for popular trips:

Requirements for other countries