Tips for Driving a Rental Car in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland Driving Overview

Northern Ireland is a country just 85 miles long and 70 miles wide, which makes it possible to see much of the area in a few hours, but what’s the hurry. You will want to see the surf-washed Atlantic beaches of the Causeway Coast & Glens which is an easy drive due to Northern Ireland's extensive road system. As you travel in Northern Ireland, you are surrounded by breathtaking scenery, peaceful countryside and many destinations to explore. Remember that traffic travels on the left hand side of the road in Northern Ireland.

Driving Age Requirements in Northern Ireland

To rent a car in Northern Ireland, you must be at least 21 years old (age may vary by car category) and have held your license for 2 years. Drivers age 23 and under and over the age of 70 may incur an additional fee locally. There is a maximum age of 69 for some rentals. Seat belts are mandatory. Child seats are mandatory for children up to age 3.

Rules of the Road

Traffic travels on the left and you always want to turn left when entering a roundabout (traffic circle). Cars are equipped with the steering wheel on the right hand side of the vehicle.

Speed Limits & Gas Stations in Northern Ireland  City: 30mph/45kph Open Roads: 60mph/95kph Highways: 70mph/110kph Gas Station Availability - Most gas stations are open from 7 am to 7 pm. There are stations open 24 hours in some major cities.

Parking & Tolls in Northern Ireland There are no toll highways in Northern Ireland. There are meters where you can buy a ticket and display this on your windshield. When there is a red line painted on the curb or a double yellow line, parking is prohibited.

Car Rental Insurance Information in Northern Ireland

Required Insurance Coverage

Fire and third party liability insurance is mandatory and is included in all rentals. Third party liability insurance offers unlimited coverage in case of death or injury to people or damage to property outside of the rental car.

Optional Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and theft protection are included in our inclusive rates at a discount. CDW, if purchased at the rental counter, costs approximately $15 - $50 per day. Theft protection, if purchased at the rental counter, costs approximately $5 - $8 per day. CDW and theft protection reduces the deductible (responsibility of the client) to $1095 - $1395. Super CDW may be offered locally to reduce the deductible as low as zero. Optional insurance coverage is available with select suppliers only, rates subject to change without notice.

Car Rental Restrictions in Northern Ireland

Most Northern Ireland rental car categories can be driven anywhere in Northern Ireland and Ireland without restriction. Due to insurance regulations, there are restrictions on luxury car categories and on travel in certain countries. Please take a minute to ensure that your intended itinerary will be possible with the car you plan to rent.

Restricted Countries

Cars rented in Northern Ireland can generally be taken to Ireland. Additional fees may apply depending on car type and supplier. Cars rented in Northern Ireland can travel to the United Kingdom and to the European continent for an additional fee, but keep in mind the vehicle will be set up for left lane driving.

One-Way Rentals

Domestic one-way rentals are available between select locations, additional fees may apply. The only international one-way rentals available are to Dublin, Shannon, Galway, Cork, Waterford, Wexford, Killarney, and Sligo. There are additional fees for thes