Can I drive in Ireland with a UK licence? Do I need an international driving permit?
No. GOV.UK says: “You do not need an IDP.” (GOV.UK international driving permit table, checked on 28 October 2026).
If you need a permit anyway (for example because your car hire company asks for one), the type is: 1949 (GOV.UK table).
Rules change, and car hire companies can ask for more than the law. We quote the official travel advice word for word, with its date; this is information, not legal advice. If you are unsure, ask the embassy of the country you are visiting, your car hire company or your travel insurer before you travel.
What the official source says
GOV.UK: international driving permit table
| Country or territory | Type of IDP | More information |
|---|---|---|
| Ireland | 1949 | You do not need an IDP. If you’re hiring a car, you should check if the car hire company says you need an IDP. |
Source: GOV.UK, Driving abroad: check if you need an international driving permit (IDP), page updated 29 January 2025, checked on 28 October 2026. GOV.UK says: “Check the table to find out if you need an IDP.”
The GOV.UK travel advice for Ireland has nothing about driving licences or permits (official page, checked on 28 October 2026).
What to bring and where to get an IDP
GOV.UK says:
You can get an IDP in person from certain shops that have PayPoint.
An IDP costs £5.50.
A 1926 or 1949 permit lasts for 12 months. A 1968 permit lasts for 3 years or until your UK driving licence expires, whichever comes first.
You must always have your driving licence with you, as well as your IDP.
Source: GOV.UK, Get an international driving permit (IDP) and Check if you need an IDP, checked on 28 October 2026.
Hire a car in Ireland
Hiring a car in Ireland? Compare rental companies and prices on DiscoverCars. Check the licence and IDP rules above before you book: the rental desk can refuse your booking without the right permit.
Some links are affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Hiring a car in Ireland? How to pay tolls in Ireland with a rental car
Using public transport instead? The fine without a valid ticket, validation and contactless payment: Dublin
Taking your dog or cat? Pet rules from the UK to Ireland: animal health certificate, rabies, tapeworm
Other licences in Ireland
| Licence | In Ireland | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Canadian licence | Recommended | 28 October 2026 |
| Australian licence | It depends | 17 October 2026 |
Before you travel to Ireland
- British passport: Ireland entry requirements
- Canadian passport: Ireland
- Australian passport: Ireland
- Italian citizens: Irlanda
Questions
Do I need an international driving permit for Ireland with a UK photocard driving licence?
No. GOV.UK says: “You do not need an IDP.” (GOV.UK international driving permit table, checked on 28 October 2026).
Can I drive in Ireland with my UK licence?
GOV.UK says: “You do not need an IDP.”
Where do I get an international driving permit in the UK?
GOV.UK says: “You can get an IDP in person from certain shops that have PayPoint.” “An IDP costs £5.50.”
Where does this answer come from?
From the official travel advice of GOV.UK, read on 28 October 2026 and quoted word for word on this page. It is information, not legal advice.
Spotted a change? Tell us. Every country for a UK licence · Driving abroad: all licences.