Does my UK car insurance cover me in Ireland?
Yes, all UK vehicle insurance provides the minimum third party cover to drive in EU countries.
If you have a fully comprehensive policy, check with your car insurance provider to see if this extends to Ireland, as well as checking whether you are covered for theft or damage to your car when abroad.
If you are going to be in Ireland for more than 90 days, again contact your insurer to see if you need additional cover.
Do I need extra insurance to drive in Ireland?
You don’t need additional insurance, but it’s sensible to take your Certificate of Motor Insurance. This provides details of your cover that you'll need to provide if you have an accident.
From 1 January 2021 (the end of the UK’s transition period for leaving the EU), you may also need a Green Card plus the logbook (V5C) for the vehicle.
Read more about driving on the continent with our guide to Making sure you’re covered to drive in Europe.
What is a Green Card?
A Green Card (or International Motor Insurance Card) is an internationally recognised document that shows that you have the minimum insurance cover needed by law in the country you're visiting.
Contact your insurer to be sent a copy either through email or post. If emailed, print off a copy before you travel to the EU.
You’ll need an additional Green Card if you are towing a caravan or trailer. A Green Card can last for up to 90 days.
Can I bring my car from UK to Ireland?
Yes, you can take your car from the UK to Ireland, but after 1 January 2021, you may need a Green Card.
How long can I drive in Ireland on UK plates?
Vehicles from the UK can be temporarily driven in Ireland for up to 12 months.
Will my car insurance go up if I claim in Ireland?
Probably. Car insurance premiums tend to rise if you make any claims, wherever you are driving because insurers take the view that a similar incident might happen again.
What documents do I need for driving in Ireland?
Keep the following documents with you when driving in Ireland:
- A valid UK driving licence
- A GB sticker on the back of your car – unless your car has EU plates
- Your motor insurance certificate
- Your V5 registration document
- A Green Card (potentially, from 1 January 2021)
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Do I need a GB sticker for driving in Ireland?
Not currently, but this may change after 1 January, 2021. If there are changes then unless your car is equipped with EU number plates, which show the country code in a circle of stars on a blue background, you’ll need a GB sticker. You’ll also need a GB sticker on anything you might be towing.
What else do I need to know before driving in Ireland?
- Motorists drive on the left and overtake on the right – the same as the UK
- Speeding fines in Ireland are currently set at a flat rate of €80 regardless of the speed at which offenders are caught. By law, the part of your navigation system that shows you where fixed speed cameras are must be deactivated
- Some motorways in Ireland have tolls and many don't take credit cards, so make sure you have change or invest in an e-Toll electronic tag
- The minimum age to hire a car is 23. You need a full, valid UK driving licence and usually a second proof of ID
- Car insurance differs from policy to policy, so before you drive overseas, check your insurance and increase the protection provided if necessary
- Make sure you have breakdown cover in place and that it’s valid for driving outside of the UK. Read our guide to European breakdown cover.
- Other items worth taking with you in your vehicle include a reflective warning triangle, fire extinguisher, spare bulbs for your car lights and a first aid kit
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