International Driving Permit for Ireland
International Driving Permit for Ireland: IDP recommended for foreign visitors. Driving side, minimum age, and how to get your IDP for Ireland online in minutes.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Ireland?
Recommended for non-EU visitors and for licences not in English. An International Driving Permit is an official translation of your national driver's licence into multiple languages — it never replaces your home licence, so always carry both, along with your passport.
What to carry when driving in Ireland
- Your valid national driver's licence
- Your International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Your passport and rental documents
How to get your IDP for Ireland
You don't need to visit an office. Get your International Driving Permit online with International DL in minutes — we translate your licence into the official UN-convention languages and issue your IDP digitally, ready before you fly.
Which permit Ireland recognises
Ireland is party to both the 1949 Geneva and the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, so an International Driving Permit issued under either treaty is recognised there.
Treaty status per the United Nations treaty depositary: 1949 Geneva Convention · 1968 Vienna Convention
Driving on the Left-hand side in Ireland
Ireland drives on the LEFT. If you normally drive on the right, allow time to adjust — roundabouts, junctions and overtaking all run the opposite way, and most rental cars will have the gear shift on your left.
The legal minimum driving age in Ireland is 17. Rental companies routinely set their own, higher minimum and often add a young-driver surcharge below 25.
Driving to Ireland soon?
Get your digital International Driving Permit in minutes and drive worry-free.
Get my IDP →Common questions about driving in Ireland
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Ireland?
IDP recommended for foreign visitors. Recommended for non-EU visitors and for licences not in English.
Which side of the road does Ireland drive on?
Ireland drives on the Left-hand side of the road.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid?
An IDP is valid for 1–3 years from the date of issue, depending on the plan you choose, and only while your national licence remains valid.
How fast can I get an IDP for Ireland?
You can get a digital International Driving Permit from International DL online in minutes — apply, and we issue your IDP without a trip to an office.
How Europe compares
Requirements change at the border. If your trip crosses into a neighbouring country, check it before you drive.
| Country | IDP | Drives on | Min. age |
|---|---|---|---|
| France | IDP recommended | Right-hand side | 18+ |
| Italy | IDP required | Right-hand side | 18+ |
| Germany | IDP required | Right-hand side | 18+ |
| Greece | IDP required | Right-hand side | 18+ |
| Montenegro | IDP recommended | Right-hand side | 18+ |
Further reading on driving in Ireland
- International Driving Permit for Ireland: Fast, Easy GuideLearn everything you need to know about the international driving permit for Ireland, including eligibility, validity, a
- Do You Need an International License to Drive in Ireland?Discover if you need an international license to drive in Ireland and learn how to get your International Driving Permit
- Do You Need an International Driver's License in Ireland?Discover if you need an international driver's license in Ireland and learn how to get one. Get ready for a smooth drivi
Other countries
Read more in our travel guides.
Checked August 29, 2026. Driving rules change and can vary by region and nationality. Always confirm the current requirements with the official transport authority or embassy of Ireland before you travel.