Best car insurance in Ireland in 2025

Over 2,500 uninsured vehicles were seized in Ireland last year, highlighting how driving without valid insurance is not only illegal but can result in severe penalties and leave you facing costs that quickly spiral out of control after even minor accidents. In Ireland, car insurance is a legal requirement for any vehicle on public roads, with the most common risks including collisions, storm or flood damage, theft, and injuries. Many drivers are unaware that basic third-party policies generally do not cover their own vehicle’s damage or contents, and limits or exclusions can apply for things like driving abroad, unlisted drivers, and certain natural disasters.

Key challenges include steadily rising premiums, strict claims processes, and significant differences in what each insurer covers. Comparing policies is crucial as coverage, pricing, and added benefits vary widely—choosing the right plan can protect your finances, help you comply with the law, and give real peace of mind on Irish roads.

At HelloSafe, our expert team delivers impartial, in-depth comparisons of Ireland’s leading insurers, so you can confidently select the cover that matches your needs and budget—backed by our commitment to clarity, independence, and up-to-date advice.

How does car insurance work in Ireland?

Car insurance in Ireland is required by law for anyone driving a vehicle on public roads and provides crucial financial protection against accidents, theft, and damage. Policies typically include third-party coverage as the legal minimum, which protects you if you cause injury or property damage to others, while comprehensive plans can cover your own vehicle as well. Irish insurers offer a wide range of plans and optional benefits that can be tailored to fit your budget and specific driving needs.

Choosing car insurance in Ireland ensures legal compliance and peace of mind in case of unexpected events. You can select from different levels of protection, including extras like breakdown assistance or international coverage for driving abroad. Flexible reimbursement levels and add-ons allow you to find the coverage that’s best matched to your car, lifestyle, and risk profile.

What does car insurance cover?

Car insurance in Ireland always includes at least third-party (basic legal) cover, which protects you if you cause injury or damage to someone else or their property, and is legally required for all drivers. Many insurers offer optional upgrades such as third-party, fire and theft, or fully comprehensive cover, which can extend protection to your own car for risks like accidental damage, theft, fire, and vandalism. Add-ons are available to customise your policy, with extras such as windscreen cover, roadside assistance, personal accident protection, or rental reimbursement. When a valid claim is made, reimbursement is usually provided up to the policy limits minus any applicable excess (deductible), and some benefits may have waiting periods before they become active. The level of cover you choose determines what is reimbursed, how much you pay up front, and the peace of mind your policy offers.

What guarantees does car insurance typically excludes?

The most common car insurance exclusions in Ireland include intentional damage caused by the policyholder, costs related to regular wear, tear, and maintenance, and incidents while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Personal belongings left in the car are usually not covered unless you have specific added protection. Claims may also be rejected if someone not named or permitted under your policy was driving, or if your claim exceeds the policy’s limit. Other frequent exclusions in Ireland include using your car for paid hire or reward unless declared, racing, or any illegal activity. Waiting periods or strict coverage caps may apply to certain benefits, so always check the terms of your policy.

How much does car insurance cost in Ireland?

Car insurance pricing in Ireland is shaped by factors such as a driver’s age, years of driving experience, and claims history, with younger and less experienced drivers typically facing higher premiums. The type of coverage you select—whether third-party only, third-party fire and theft, or comprehensive—as well as your chosen deductible and any optional extras will influence the cost. Where you live and where the car is parked overnight, as well as the make, model, and value of your vehicle, are important elements, with urban or high-theft areas and high-value cars driving up rates. Premiums often increase if you make an at-fault claim, commit traffic violations, add additional coverage, insure a new or high-performance car, or as you reach certain age brackets associated with increased risk.

Best Car Insurance in Ireland

Best for everyday commuting (school/work)

Aviva “Safe Driver” comprehensive policy is highly suitable for daily commuters due to its balance of coverage and price. This plan includes third-party, fire and theft, and optional extras such as breakdown rescue and windscreen repair up to €600. Commuters benefit from flexible mileage limits and quick digital claims processing, making it easy to stay protected on routine routes to work or school.

Best for families with multiple vehicles

Liberty Insurance “Multi-Car” policy is ideal for households with two or more cars. You can insure multiple vehicles under one policy, receive a discount per additional car, and manage renewals together. The plan typically covers liability, theft, fire, and offers breakdown assistance and child car seat replacement—features valuable to families with busy schedules.

Best for tight budgets

AXA “Third Party, Fire & Theft” policy is a smart choice for budget-conscious drivers. This product focuses on essentials, providing legal minimum liability cover and protection against theft or fire, helping to keep monthly premiums low—often under €60 depending on driver profile. Fast online quotes and competitive rates make it a leading budget option nationwide.

Best for expats or international drivers

FBD Insurance “Welcome” plan is tailored for expats and international drivers new to Ireland. It offers immediate cover with minimal paperwork for those converting foreign driving licences and considers previous no-claims bonus from abroad. Comprehensive, third-party fire and theft, or liability-only options are available, with strong customer support for non-residents.

Best for senior drivers

Aviva “Retired Driver” plan provides discounts and tailored coverage for experienced motorists aged 60+. This includes comprehensive or third-party fire and theft options, courtesy car provision, and access to Aviva’s €600 windscreen protection. Claims support and flexible excess make it ideal for the needs and habits of mature drivers.

Best for students or young drivers

An Post Insurance “Young Driver” policy stands out for students and young adults. This product features competitive premiums with telematics (smartphone-based tracking), safe driver rewards, and includes third-party, fire and theft as well as breakdown assistance. It is appealing for those looking to build a no-claims discount and reduce costs over time.

Best for flexible/occasional use

AA Ireland “Pay As You Drive” insurance is perfect for drivers who use their vehicles only occasionally or have fluctuating usage needs. The product allows you to pay based on actual mileage tracked, and comes with essential liability and fire/theft coverage, as well as free AA roadside assistance, saving money when your car isn’t used every day.

Best for self-employed or business use

Zurich Insurance “Business Car” policy is specifically designed for self-employed professionals or those using their vehicle for work. It provides comprehensive or third-party fire and theft cover as well as goods-in-transit protection up to €500 and optional breakdown assistance. Zurich’s business plans are flexible, supporting both part-time and full-time work-related driving.

How to Lower Your Car Insurance Costs

Here are some of the most effective ways to reduce your car insurance premiums in Ireland:

• Compare offers: Use our HelloSafe comparison tool at the top of the page to quickly find and compare the best car insurance deals available in Ireland.
• Increase your voluntary excess: Opting for a higher voluntary excess can help lower your premium, but ensure the chosen amount is affordable if you need to make a claim.
• Maintain a clean driving record: Avoid accidents and penalty points, as insurers reward safe drivers with lower premiums and no-claims discounts.
• Bundle your insurance policies: Purchasing car insurance together with home, life, or other insurance policies from the same provider may qualify you for a multi-policy discount.
• Limit your annual mileage: If you drive fewer kilometres each year, let your insurer know, as a lower annual mileage can help reduce your premium.
• Choose a car that’s cheaper to insure: Vehicles with lower engine sizes, good security features, and lower repair costs are usually less expensive to insure.
• Install approved security devices: Adding alarms, immobilisers, or trackers to your vehicle reduces the risk of theft and can lead to a further premium discount.
• Review your policy annually: Check your cover when renewing—removing unnecessary add-ons or extras you no longer need can help keep your premiums low.

FAQ

Kate O'Brien

Specialist in personal finance

Kate is a specialist in personal finance with a strong academic and professional background. Originally from Cork, she studied Economics at Trinity College Dublin and completed a Master’s in Financial Management at University College Dublin. Before joining HelloSafe, she worked in consumer banking and later in digital content for financial startups. Her passion lies in making financial topics like insurance, credit, savings, and budgeting simple and accessible for Irish consumers. At HelloSafe, Kate creates reliable, easy-to-understand guides designed to help readers take control of their money with clarity and confidence.