How to Translate Your Driver’s License for Use in Ireland depends on whether your license is in English; if not, a certified translation or IDP is required for car rental.
How to Translate Your Driver’s License for Use in Ireland [2025 Guide]
Planning to drive in Ireland, but your license isn’t in English? Then you may need a certified translation. In this guide, we’ll explain how to translate your driver’s license for use in Ireland — quickly and online.
Why You Might Need a License Translation in Ireland
You can legally drive in Ireland as a tourist if your license is valid and written in English or issued in the EU/EEA. However, if your license:
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Is not in English
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Uses non-Roman characters (like Arabic, Cyrillic, or Chinese)
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Comes from outside the EU/EEA
…you may be asked by rental agencies or authorities to show a certified English translation.
Also read: Can You Rent a Car in Ireland Without an IDP?
IDP vs. Certified Translation — What’s the Difference?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a booklet that translates your license into several languages. But if you didn’t get one before your trip, a certified translation is a fast and accepted alternative.
Both options are used to help authorities and rental companies understand your license. However, translations are typically easier to obtain online once you’ve already arrived.
Related: Is an International Driving Permit Required in Ireland?
How to Get a Certified Translation Online
You can apply for a certified translation through InternationalTravelPermits.com — a convenient solution for travelers:
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Upload your license and a passport-style photo
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Fill out a simple online form
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Receive a digital version in 24 hours
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Request a printed copy with international delivery if needed
We are not a government agency, but our certified translations are widely accepted for travel and rental purposes.
When Should You Apply?
You should apply for a certified license translation if:
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You don’t have an IDP
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Your license is not in English
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You need to rent a car in Ireland
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You want to avoid delays at rental counters or checkpoints
Also helpful: Driving in Ireland: What Documents Do You Need as a Foreigner?
Final Thoughts
Need to translate your driver’s license for use in Ireland? Don’t wait until you’re turned away at the rental desk. Apply online now and get your certified translation in just 24 hours.
Start My Application
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
How to Translate Your Driver’s License for Use in Ireland is essential if your original license is not in English, and you must carry both the original and translated version while driving.
How to Translate Your Driver’s License for Use in Ireland is unrelated to Schengen status, but since Ireland is not part of Schengen, border rules still apply separately.
How to Translate Your Driver’s License for Use in Ireland is important for tourists unfamiliar with local rules—note that driving is on the left-hand side of the road.
How to Translate Your Driver’s License for Use in Ireland may be a first step before converting your license, especially if you plan to reside long-term and need to apply for an Irish license.
How to Translate Your Driver’s License for Use in Ireland is not related to border entry, but if you’re planning to drive, having a translated license (or IDP) is key when your original is not in English.