Returning to Ireland? Here’s How to Get Car Insurance with a Foreign Licence
Whether you're an Irish citizen returning home or a new resident settling in for the first time, getting back on the road in Ireland is often a top priority. But if you’re holding a foreign driving licence—especially a non-EU one—navigating the Irish car insurance system can feel confusing.
At Brady Insurance, we’re here to make it simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help repatriating drivers and new residents get car insurance in Ireland with a foreign licence.
Step 1: Understand Licence Recognition in Ireland
First, it’s important to know how your current licence is recognised in Ireland:
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EU/EEA Licences: Fully recognised. You can continue to drive on these licences in Ireland, and most insurers will accept them.
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Recognised Exchange Countries: Ireland has agreements with countries like the UK, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and others. You can exchange your licence for an Irish one without taking a test.
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Non-Recognised Licences (e.g., USA, Ukraine, India, Brazil): These cannot be exchanged. You’ll need to go through the Irish driving test process to obtain a local licence.
You can still get insured on a foreign licence—but your options may be more limited, especially if your licence isn't from an EU or exchangeable country. Brady Insurance has a full range of Insurers and can advise you of your options.
Step 2: Prepare Documentation
Before applying for car insurance, gather the following:
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Your full, valid foreign driving licence (and translation if not in English).
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Proof of driving history or no claims bonus from your previous insurer—this can help reduce your premium.
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Proof of Irish address (utility bill, lease agreement, etc.).
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PPS number (for residents).
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Driving experience letter, if available, detailing your past driving record.
At Brady Insurance, we can help you present this documentation in a way that strengthens your application.
Step 3: Understand How Foreign Licences Affect Insurance Quotes
Insurers in Ireland are typically cautious with foreign licences due to unfamiliarity with other driving standards. This may result in:
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Higher premiums, especially for non-EU/non-recognised licences.
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Limited insurer choice, as not all providers are willing to insure foreign-licence holders.
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Restrictions, such as coverage type or additional excess charges.
That said, specialist brokers like Brady Insurance work with insurers who are more flexible and experienced in handling these situations and can advocate on your behalf.
Step 4: Consider Exchanging Your Licence (If You Can)
If you're eligible to exchange your licence, doing so can:
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Make it easier to get insured.
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Expand the number of Insurers willing to quote you.
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Reduce your premium.
Even if you're not required to exchange your licence immediately, doing so within 12 months of becoming a resident can smooth your long-term driving experience in Ireland.
Step 5: Get Expert Help from a Broker
Because repatriating drivers and new residents have such varied backgrounds, working with a broker like Brady Insurance gives you the best chance of securing the right cover.
We can help you:
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Find insurers who accept foreign licences.
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Present your driving history in the most favourable light.
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Understand when and how to switch to an Irish licence.
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Get a competitive quote tailored to your situation.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget About Car Tax and NCT
Once you're insured, remember that car tax and the NCT (National Car Test) are also required for vehicles in Ireland. If you’re bringing your own car into the country, you’ll also need to register it with Revenue and pay Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT).
Let Brady Insurance Help You Get Settled
Returning to Ireland or relocating from abroad is a big move, but your car insurance doesn’t have to be complicated. At Brady Insurance, we specialise in helping foreign licence holders and repatriating Irish drivers get the cover they need quickly and affordably.
Call us today or get a quote online – we’re here to guide you every step of the way.