Driving in Ireland: Essential Tips for International Students
Moving to Ireland for studies brings new adventures – including learning to drive on the left while navigating unfamiliar roads. From roundabout rules to converting your licence, here’s what you need to know to drive safely (and legally) during your stay.
Who This Guide Is For
This is for you if:
- You’re an international student with a foreign licence needing Irish insurance
- You’ve never driven before but want to learn here
- You’re confused about Ireland’s graduated licence system
- You want to drive but aren’t sure about manual vs automatic
Getting Started: Your 3-Step Roadmap
1. Check If You Can Drive on Your Current Licence
If you’re from an EU/EEA country or have a recognised exchange licence (check NDLS), you can drive here for up to 12 months. After that, you’ll need to exchange it for an Irish licence.
Students from non-EU countries usually need:
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your original licence
- Or to apply for a full Irish learner permit if staying long-term
2. Choose Between Manual and Automatic
| Manual Lessons | Automatic Lessons | |
|---|---|---|
| Licence type | Can drive both | Automatic-only |
| Car availability | Wider choice (most rentals/manual) | Limited options |
| Learning curve | Steeper – mastering gears | Easier – focus on road |
| Good if… | You’ll drive in multiple countries | You’ll buy/lease automatic |
3. Complete Essential Driver Training (EDT)
All first-time Irish learners need 12 EDT lessons covering:
- Core skills like braking and steering control
- Left-hand driving practice (filtering lanes, roundabouts)
- Night driving and adverse weather prep
- Manoeuvres specific to the driving test
You’ll log progress digitally – crucial for booking your test.
Left-Hand Driving: Common Mistakes (And Fixes)
- Roundabout Panic: “I keep looking the wrong direction!” → Tip: Chant “look right” aloud until it sticks. Friend or Empty Crisp Packet?
- Road Position Drift: Gradually edging right → Fix: Watch the left kerb in your peripheral vision
- T-Junction Confusion: Turning into wrong lane → Rule: Leftmost-to-leftmost, rightmost stays right
- Gear Shifting Challenges: Manual drivers may fumble left-hand gearbox → Drill: Practice gear changes parked (engine off)
What to Expect in a Typical Lesson
First 2–3 Lessons:
- Car controls walkthrough (pedals/indicators adjusted for LHD)
- Quiet estate practice: steering, stopping, clutch control
- Left-turn priorities and mini-roundabouts
Midway Lessons:
- Town driving – busier junctions and pedestrian crossings
- Speed awareness for different zones (50km/h urban, 100km/h national)
- Parallel parking and hill starts
Pre-Test Lessons:
- Test routes around your nearest test centre
- Mock tests with examiner-style feedback
- “Show me, tell me” question prep (checking oil, tyre depth etc.)
FAQs: International Students Driving in Ireland
Q: Can I skip EDT if I drove back home?
A: Usually no – the RSA requires all first-time permit holders complete EDT. Exceptions are very rare.
Q: How quickly can I take the driving test?
A: You must wait 6 months after getting your learner permit and complete all EDT hours.
Q: Can I use my parent/friend’s car for practice?
A: Only if they’re an ADI (approved instructor) or you meet accompanied driving rules (L-plates, supervising driver criteria).
Q: Do pre-test lessons include test centre routes?
A: Good instructors tailor these to your chosen test centre (e.g., Tallaght vs. Raheny routes differ).
Q: What if my English isn’t fluent?
A: You can request interpreters for theory tests. Practical tests use simple English – instructors practice key phrases with you.
Q: How long does the licence exchange process take?
A: 10–15 working days if no issues. Keep your original licence – you may need it if returning home.
Why Choose Epic Driving School
- RSA-Approved Instructors: All trainers are RSA-accredited with graded records
- Modern Dual-Control Cars: Automatic (Toyota Yaris Hybrid) and manual (Ford Focus) options
- Pay-As-You-Learn: No upfront packages – book single lessons if needed
- City-Centric Routes: Specialise in Dublin’s LUAS lines, college zones and tight streets
Ready to Start?
Whether converting your licence or beginning from scratch, our instructors who’ve taught hundreds of international students adapt lessons to your experience level. First lesson tip: Bring your learner permit and comfortable shoes. We’ll handle the rest.
(Already got experience? Ask about our Pre-Test Crash Courses)