Key takeaway
Car insurance is compulsory in Ireland. Third party insurance is the legal minimum, but comprehensive cover is usually better value. Your no-claims bonus from abroad may transfer.
Key things to know
- Third party insurance is the legal minimum — driving without insurance is a serious offence.
- Irish car insurance can be expensive, especially in your first year without an Irish no-claims history.
- Your no-claims bonus from another country may be accepted — get a letter from your previous insurer.
- Compare quotes on bonkers.ie, insuremycars.ie, or by contacting insurers directly.
- Garda checkpoints and ANPR cameras check insurance in real time — penalties for no insurance include seizure of your car.
Types of Car Insurance
- Third Party Only (TPO): The legal minimum. Covers injury to others and damage to their property. Does not cover your own vehicle.
- Third Party, Fire and Theft (TPFT): Adds cover for your car being stolen or damaged by fire.
- Comprehensive: Covers all of the above plus damage to your own vehicle, regardless of fault. Often not significantly more expensive than TPFT and usually the best value option.
No-Claims Bonus from Abroad
A no-claims bonus (NCB) significantly reduces your premium. If you have been driving claim-free in another country, ask your previous insurer for a no-claims bonus letter before you leave. Irish insurers vary in how they accept foreign NCBs — some accept them fully, others discount them or only accept NCBs from certain countries (particularly the UK). Shop around, as policies differ.
Why Irish Car Insurance Can Be Expensive
Ireland has some of the highest car insurance premiums in Europe. Factors that drive up your premium:
- Being a new driver or having no Irish driving history
- Being under 25 years old
- Having a high-performance vehicle
- Living in certain Dublin postcodes
- Having points on your licence or a claims history
What You Need to Get a Quote
- Your Irish driving licence (or foreign licence if not yet exchanged)
- Vehicle registration details
- Your no-claims bonus letter from your previous insurer (if applicable)
- PPS number (some insurers ask for this)
- Irish address
Motor Tax
Separate from insurance, you must also pay motor tax to drive legally in Ireland. Tax is calculated based on engine size or CO₂ emissions. Pay online at motortax.ie or at your local motor tax office.
NCT — National Car Test
Cars over 4 years old must pass an NCT (roadworthiness test) every 2 years. Book at ncts.ie. Driving without a valid NCT cert is an offence.
Official Sources
Sources: citizensinformation.ie, ccpc.ie, rsa.ie
General guidance only. Always verify with official sources — gov.ie, citizensinformation.ie, hse.ie.