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Driving in Ireland is an adventure. First accustom yourself to sitting on the right and become familiar with all the controls before moving the car at all.
If you are traveling with a companion, have them remind you to keep left for a day or two, especially at intersections, rounding curves and approaching oncoming traffic. Be especially careful at stop signs and lights. You first need to look RIGHT, then left--exactly the opposite of what you are used to. Traffic circles (roundabouts) can be a special challenge until you get used to them. When approaching one slow down and prepare to yield. The traffic in the circle has the right of way and you must yield to it.
Roads range from good to atrocious and since signposts can be confusing getting lost is inevitable. This is when a good map and advice of locals will help.
Gasoline (petrol) can be very expensive in Ireland. It is close to $4.50 a gallon (US). However, cars in Ireland tend to get better fuel economy (MPG) than in the USA because there are fewer restrictions on emissions in Ireland. Also, car engines are smaller (1100-1500 CC is the rule).
United States, Canadian and EU citizens DO NOT need an international driver's license. A valid driver's license issued by your country is all that is required in Ireland. Check with the car rental company if you are over 70 or under 25 years of age to see if you can rent from them. Most car rental companies in Ireland will not rent to anyone 75 years old or over.
Remember, drive on the left and watch out for the sheep !
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