You can rent a car in Ireland if you have a license from your country of origin.Rules of the road in Ireland may be different from those in your own country.It is important to follow basic laws while driving.Ireland has plenty of winding roads and farm land, so account for this when driving.It is possible to navigate Ireland by car with a little attention to detail.
Step 1: You can drive on the left side of the road.
You drive on the left side of the road in Ireland.This can be confusing if you're from a country where you drive on the right side.To help you stay on track, repeat the phrase "hard left, wide right".You can remember which side of the road to drive on if you make tight turns left and right.
Step 2: Take care of the right of way.
There is a right of way for cars crossing from the right.There are yellow signs with black markings.Thin lines indicate a less important road, while thick lines represent the road that has the right of way.
Step 3: You should move for passing cars.
There are two-lane highways in Ireland.Cars may swerve into the opposite lane to pass a slower car.If you see a car in your lane trying to pass, it's a good idea to move to the left to give the car room.
Step 4: Don't use your phone while driving.
You can't have a phone in your hand while you're driving in Ireland.It's dangerous to be on your phone while you drive, so put it away for the entire time you're behind the wheel.
Step 5: The speed limit should be observed.
Mobile speed cameras are used to police speeding in Ireland.Pay attention to road signs.The speed limit may change quickly.Speed limits in Ireland are between 80 and 120 kilometers per hour.You should always drive with conditions in mind.You may have to drive below the speed limit if it's raining or snowing.Motorways are roads marked "M".The speed limit on highways is usually around 120 kilometers per hour.National primary and secondary roads are marked "N".You can drive on these for about 100 kilometers per hour.Regional roads are marked "R".Regional roads have speed limits of 80 kilometers per hour or less.
Step 6: Do not drive if you drink and drive.
Drunk driving is a very serious offense in Ireland.The legal limit is 50 grams of alcohol per 100 liters of blood.If you have one or two drinks over several hours, you'll be safe to drive.If you're drinking more than this, be careful.If you're driving in an unfamiliar place, it's safest to not drive at all.You can take buses and metros in Ireland's big cities.When you're drinking, use public transportation.
Step 7: Rent or hire a smaller car.
Ireland has narrower roads than the United States.It's best to rent a small car.You will be able to maneuver the roads more easily.If you're not used to driving a manual, make sure to specify that you want a car with automatic transmission.
Step 8: You can use a map or road atlas.
It's easy to get lost if you're driving in a foreign country.Pack a map when you travel or use a gps device on your phone.As you drive through unfamiliar terrain, this will help you keep track of where you are.Pull over to consult your map if you get lost.It's dangerous to drive while reading.
Step 9: The tank needs to be filled frequently.
There aren't many gas stations in Ireland.You don't want to run out of gas in a rural area.When you see a gas station, top off your tank.If you want to be on the safe side, fill your tank as soon as it's half empty.
Step 10: Public transportation can be used in larger cities.
Driving in cities can be dangerous if you're not familiar with it.If you're traveling to Dublin, stick to public transportation because even seasoned drivers struggle to navigate big metropolitan areas.In larger cities, you should be able to easily navigate the city using the bus or train systems.
Step 11: It is a good idea toFamiliarize yourself with the car before you drive.
When renting a car, make sure to look over the controls before hitting the road.Before hitting the road, make sure the car has a users manual.
Step 12: Drive to the parking lot first.
When you get your car, don't go directly onto a busy street.You can practice driving at a parking lot or car park for half an hour.This will give you an idea of how the car moves and how to use the controls.It can be dangerous to hit the streets in an unfamiliar car.
Step 13: It's a good idea to wear a seatbelt.
When driving in Ireland, wear a seatbelt.All other passengers should have their seat belts fastened as well.A seat belt can save a life in an emergency.If you are caught not wearing your seat belt, you may be fined.
Step 14: Drive slowly through farmland.
Do not attempt to drive fast if you're on a narrow road.It is okay to drive below the speed limit.An animal may need to stop.You might need to drive slowly around curves.