On the 31st December 2020 the Brexit transition period ended, meaning that cross-border journeys now weave between UK and EU rules. However, multiple agreements have been reached to ensure most rules remain the same.

EU driving licences in NI

The UK Government advises that arrangements for EU licence holders who are visiting or living in the UK will not change. Therefore, visitors to Northern Ireland with driving licences from EU Member States, including Ireland, should continue to enjoy the same arrangements. Further information >>  Gov.ie

Irish driving licences in NI

An Irish driving licence is an EU licence and the UK/NI has indicated it will continue to recognise EU driving licences. Further information >> NDLS.ie

UK driving licences in Ireland

Visitors to Ireland holding a UK/NI licence, are entitled to drive in Ireland for the period of the visit with an existing UK driving licence providing it is current and valid and that it is carried at all times. An International Driving Permit is not required. Further information >> NDLS.ie

UK driving licences are no longer valid for persons living in Ireland and must be exchanged for an Irish driving licence. UK visitors to Ireland are not affected. For further information >> Gov.ie

UK Learner Drivers in Ireland

Foreign  learner permits (including UK provisional licences granted in NI) cannot be used to drive in Ireland or be exchanged for an Irish learner permit. This means that you cannot drive on a learner licence across the border into ROI. Source: Citizensinformation.ie

Car insurance – travelling north

Green Cards are not required for travel in the UK, including Northern Ireland, for Irish registered vehicles displaying a valid Irish insurance disc. Further information >> Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland (MIBI)

Car insurance – travelling south

Drivers from the UK, including Northern Ireland, may now drive in Ireland and elsewhere in the EU, without a Green Card as proof of motor insurance.

This comes from the European Commission decision to allow UK and Montenegro enter the Green Card Free Circulation zone, as permitted under the EU Motor Insurance Directive. This came into effect on 2 August 2021. Further information >> Dept. of Transport

Page checked: March 2023

This webpage is for general information purposes only and while we endeavour to keep it up-to-date, errors may occur. It is very important that you check with the relevant body to ensure the information is current and is applicable to your situation.

If you would like to suggest amendments or highlight new information that could be useful to others please don’t hesitate to get in touch.