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Driving In Ireland

Ireland is great country to drive in. There is ongoing road building activity going on all around the country. All major routes are well maintained. Off the beaten track - particularly on regional roads - you will find some of the most breath-taking scenery in the world.

Road Types

Motorways 

Ireland's motorway network is growing at a fast rate. Over the coming years, all major inter-urban routes will be linked by motorways or high quality dual carriageways. Motorway signage is signified by white writing on blue backgrounds. An example of a motorway is the M1 from Dublin to the Northern Ireland border. On motorways, the speed limit is usually 120kph but sometimes may be 100kph.

National Primary Routes

Ireland's primary route network is made up of single lane carriageway and dual carriageway. The general speed limit is 100kph on national routes. National primary routes are signified by white writing on green backgrounds. An example of an N route is the N17 from Galway to Sligo. 

National Secondary Routes

National secondary routes are also denoted by white writing on a green background but frequently are of lesser importance than primary routes. The speed limit is usually 100kph. An example of a secondary route is the N61 Athlone to Roscommon road.

Regional Routes

Other routes are regional roads. Black writing on a white background is their colour scheme. The speed limit is usually 80kph. An example of an R route is the R163 Slane to Kells road.

Rules and regulations

• You must drive on the left.
• Drinking and driving laws are very strict. It is best to avoid mixing the two.
• Seat belts are compulsory for both driver and passengers.
• Speeding is prohibited and there are frequest spot checks.

There are lower speed limits (60kph and 50kph) in towns and cities so be sure to heed them.

Driving and the locals.

As you get off the beaten track, you will pass through towns and villages. Ireland is famous for it's friendliness so be sure to ask for directions if you need them. On country roads it is not unusual to come across a herd of cattle crossing from one field to another. You may also stop at your leisure to marvel at the green countryside.

The driving style in Ireland is generally relaxed so take plenty of time out for your driving and enjoy the countryside!