International Road Transport Operations in Ireland
Operational Activities
Cabotage
UK operators may carry loads to, from or through the country. Loads carried between third countries can only do so under an agreement with
the third country. Cabotage is permitted.
Dangerous Goods
Ireland has introduced the legislation into its National Legislation. It is essential that fully completed ADR documentation is prepared
for the movement of dangerous goods. Note that the Dublin Port Tunnel is a Class 'C' Tunnel.
Abnormal Loads
All abnormal load movements require authorisation and allocated Permit. Notice should be given 4 days prior to movement by contacting
Siochana Operations (Traffic), Telephone +353 1 666 1792/1954.
Taxation
A full tank of fuel can be imported duty free.
Customs
ATA Carnets are accepted for certain temporary imports. CMR notes are advised.
Movement Restrictions
There are no driving restrictions on weekends or Public Holidays.
Road Tolls
The National Roads Authority (NRA) will give plenty of useful information regarding the road infrastructure in Ireland as well as the road
toll system (click on the image). Currently the following roads affected are:
- M1 Motorway (Gormanston to Monasterboice)
- M50 Barrier
- M4 Kilcock - Enfield - Kinnegad
- N6 Galway - Ballinasloe
- M7/M8 Portlaoise - Castletown/ Portlaoise - Cullahill
- N8 Rathcormac - Fermoy Bypass
- N25 Waterford City Bypass
- M3 Clonee-Kells (Clonee-Dunshaughlin)
- M3 Clonee-Kells (Navan-Kells)
Bridge and Tunnel Tolls
The following are toll tunnels and bridges.
- East Link Toll Bridge
- Limerick Tunnel
Vehicle Requirements
Documentation
Green Card required, plus original vehicle registration docs. A GB plate must be fitted to rear of vehicle/trailer.
| Maximum Weights & Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Height | 4.65 metres |
| Width | 2.55 metres (Fridges 2.6 metres) |
| Length |
Artic 16.5 metres
Road Train 18.75 metres |
| Weight |
Artic 40 tonnes (40 foot ISO containers - 44 tonnes)
Road Train 44 tonnes There are also various maximum permitted weights on vehicles, trailers and road trains which are applicable according to the number of axles. |
Safety Equipment
It is compulsory to carry the following items of equipment and/or observe specific rules:-
- First Aid Kit (advised)
- Warning Triangle
- Spare Bulbs (Advised)
- Seat Belts must be worn
Driver Requirements
Legal Documents
Full passport required but no visa required. Normal UK Licence.
Letter from employer giving driver permission to drive vehicle - Attestation letter and form. EU Hours rules apply.
Speed Limits
| Vehicles Concerned | Built-Up areas | Two-Lane Local/regional roads (kms) | Expressways / Dual Carraigeways (kms) | Motorways |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rigid Trucks over 3.5 tonnes | 50 | 80 | 80 | 80 |
| Artics & Road Trains | 50 | 80 | 80 | 80 |
Country Contact Info
British Embassy
29 Merrion Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 Tel: +353 (1) 205 3700
Website: www.britishembassyinireland.fco.gov.uk
Transport Organisation
Irish Road Haulage Association IRHA, Suite 6, Gowna Plaza, Bracetown Business Park, Clonee, Co. Meath. Tel: +353 (0)1 801 3380
Website: www.irha.ie
