Whether you’re collecting your car at the airport, in the city, or a more rural area, the pickup and return process in Ireland is straightforward once you know what to expect. With a little preparation and a few quick checks, you can avoid delays, prevent extra charges, and start your trip with confidence.

Every rental company handles pickup a little differently, but the process itself is much the same no matter where you collect your car.

You’ll check in, confirm your booking, and sign the paperwork that outlines your coverage and responsibilities. It’s not complicated, but the details matter – especially when it comes to insurance, deposits, and the condition of the vehicle. A few minutes of attention here can prevent surprises later.

Once you reach the rental desk, you’ll need three key items: your driver’s license, a credit card in the name of the main driver, and your booking confirmation. Some companies will also ask to see your passport for identification, so it’s a good idea to have it handy.

Expect to review your rental details and sign a few forms. The agent will confirm your coverage, any excess (deductible) amount, and restrictions that may be in place. You’ll likely be offered add-ons again if you won't have them – excess insurance, a GPS, a toll device, or an additional driver. Decide ahead of time what you actually need to avoid unnecessary charges.

If you haven’t taken the rental company’s full coverage, they’ll place a hold or pre-authorization on your credit card for the excess amount. It’s standard practice, but it can be a surprise if you aren’t expecting it.

Mini Tip: Before leaving the desk, confirm your drop-off location and hours, especially if you’ll be returning the car early in the morning or late at night.

Once the paperwork is complete, it’s time to collect your car. The pickup process is a little different depending on the airport.

Dublin Airport
Car rental agencies are located in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. In Terminal 1, you’ll find the desks in the Arrivals Hall on Floor 1. If you’re arriving into Terminal 2, exit the arrivals hall and walk straight ahead across the sky bridge to reach the car rental area – the signs are clear and easy to follow.

Lines can be long during busy arrival times, so a little patience helps. A few rental companies have cars available directly at the terminal, but most operate from an off-site location. Each company runs its own shuttle service to those facilities, and while they run frequently, you should allow about 15–20 minutes from baggage claim to reaching your car. Be sure to find the correct pickup point for your rental company before boarding a shuttle.

Mini Tip: If you’re collecting your car at the terminal, confirm where you’ll be returning it. Most companies require drop-off at their off-site facility, even if you picked up in-terminal.

Shannon Airport
At Shannon, the process is quick and simple. The car rental desks are directly across from the arrivals area, and there’s no shuttle involved. Because the airport is smaller, you’ll usually get through paperwork faster – but vehicle availability can also be limited. Larger cars can be hard to secure, so prebooking is essential if you need one.

Before you pull out of the lot, take a few minutes to inspect your car carefully. Walk around the vehicle with the agent, or on your own if it’s a self-service pickup. Take photos or a short video of every side, including the roof and wheels, paying attention to scratches, dents, and any chipped glass.

Check the inside too: make sure the upholstery is in good condition, the dashboard is clean, the fuel level and mileage match your paperwork, and that the car uses the fuel type you expected (petrol or diesel). Keep a copy of your rental paperwork in the glove box, and note any special instructions for tolls or refueling.

Mini Tip: Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the car’s controls. Know how to start it (push button or key), adjust mirrors, and turn on headlights and wipers before you drive off. And always remember – traffic in Ireland drives on the left!

Returning the car is usually straightforward if you follow your rental terms. Refuel the car to the same level it had when you collected it (most rentals are full-to-full). Take a new set of photos in the same spots you captured at pickup.

Leave a few extra minutes to complete the process – around 30 minutes at Shannon and 45–60 minutes at Dublin. If the return desk is closed, drop the keys and paperwork in the designated box inside the terminal.

A little planning on both pickup and return saves time, avoids disputes, and gives you peace of mind as you finish your trip.

Next in the series we’ll clear up one last common question before you hit the road – will your license work in Ireland, or do you need an international permit?

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