Renting a Car in Dublin with a Brazilian Driver’s License – The Complete Hertz Guide
If you’re planning a trip to Ireland’s vibrant capital, you’ll soon discover that the best way to explore Dublin and its stunning surroundings is behind the wheel. But what happens when your only driving credential is a Brazilian driver’s licence? Can you pick up a Hertz rental on the same day you land?
In this long‑form, step‑by‑step guide we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from the legal requirements to the paperwork, insurance options, and practical tips that will keep your Irish road‑trip smooth and stress‑free. All of the information is written in the second‑person point of view, so you can follow along as if we were chatting over a cup of tea in a Dublin café.
1. What the Law Says About Foreign Licences in Ireland
| Country of Licence | Acceptable in Ireland? | Must you have an International Driving Permit (IDP)? |
|---|---|---|
| EU / EEA members | Yes – directly accepted | No |
| USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand | Yes – directly accepted | No |
| Brazil (and most other non‑EU countries) | Yes – but only if you carry a valid IDP | Yes |
| Any other non‑EU country | May be accepted with IDP, but check with rental company | Yes (usually) |
Ireland recognises a foreign licence from a non‑EU country only if it is accompanied by a recognized International Driving Permit (IDP). The IDP translates the information on your Brazilian licence into several languages, including English, and is required by law for any driver who does not hold an EU/EEA licence.
Bottom line
You can drive in Dublin with a Brazilian licence – provided you have a valid IDP.
2. Getting Your International Driving Permit (IDP) Before You Fly
- Apply through the Confederação Nacional do Transporte (CNT) or Diretoria de Serviços de Estrada (DETRAN) in Brazil.
- Bring the following documents:
- Your original Brazilian driver’s licence (valid for at least 6 months after your intended return).
- A recent passport‑size colour photo.
- A copy of your passport (identity verification).
- Payment (R$ 30‑50, depending on the issuing body).
- Processing time: Usually the same day if you apply in person; up to 5 business days if you request it by mail.
- Validity: The IDP is valid for 1 year from the date of issue, or until your Brazilian licence expires – whichever comes first.
Tip: Print a digital copy of the IDP and keep it on your phone as a backup, but remember the physical paper is what the police and rental companies will ask for.
3. Hertz Ireland – How They Handle Brazilian Licences
Hertz Dublin Airport (HIA) and the city‑centre branches follow the same policy:
| Requirement | What Hertz Requires | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Valid Brazilian licence | Original licence, not a photocopy | Proof of driving competence |
| International Driving Permit | Original IDP, matching the licence | Legal compliance in Ireland |
| Passport | Original passport, plus a copy | Identity verification |
| Credit Card | Visa/MasterCard (no debit cards) in the renter’s name, with sufficient credit limit for deposit | Security deposit and payment |
| Age | Minimum 21 years (25 for certain vehicle classes) | Risk management; drivers under 25 may pay a surcharge |
| Driving Experience | Minimum 1 year of continuous driving experience | Reduces accident risk |
If any of these items are missing, Hertz will refuse the rental, even if you have a reservation. The best practice is to double‑check your paperwork 24 hours before you depart.
4. Step‑by‑Step: Picking Up Your Hertz Rental in Dublin
- Arrive at the Hertz desk at Dublin Airport (Terminal 1, short‑term car park) or any city location.
- Present your documents in this order: passport → Brazilian licence → IDP → credit card.
- Complete the rental agreement (read the fuel policy, mileage limits, and insurance options).
- Inspect the vehicle – use the Pre‑Rental Checklist (see the table below).
- Sign the contract and collect the keys.
- Take a quick photo of the car and the mileage reading for your records.
Pre‑Rental Checklist (Paste into your phone)
| Item | ✔️ Yes | ❌ No | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exterior scratches/dents documented? | |||
| Interior cleanliness? | |||
| All lights functional? | |||
| Tyre pressure OK? | |||
| Fuel level matches contract (Full‑to‑Full, etc.)? | |||
| Spare tyre & jack present? | |||
| Documentation (registration, insurance) inside car? |
If anything is marked “No,” ask the staff to either fix it or issue a damage waiver form before you drive off.
5. Insurance – What You Really Need in Ireland
| Coverage Type | What It Covers | Is It Mandatory? | Recommended for Brazilian Drivers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) | Damage to the rental vehicle (up to deductible) | No, but highly recommended | ✔️ Reduces out‑of‑pocket repair costs |
| Theft Protection (TP) | Loss due to theft or attempted theft | No, but strongly advised | ✔️ Ireland has an active car‑theft market |
| Third‑Party Liability | Injuries to third parties and property damage | Yes – minimum €1 million required by law | ✔️ Covered by Hertz, but consider a higher limit |
| Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) | Medical expenses for driver & passengers | Optional | ✔️ Good if you lack travel health cover |
| Super CDW / Zero Excess | Eliminates the deductible entirely | Optional | ✔️ Useful for peace of mind, especially on narrow Irish roads |
What to do:
- If you already have a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes car‑rental coverage, bring a copy of the policy. Hertz will often accept it as proof, allowing you to decline their CDW.
- Otherwise, it’s safer to purchase Hertz’s Super CDW – the extra cost (≈ €15‑€20 per day) is modest compared to a potential €5 000‑€10 000 repair bill.
6. Driving in Dublin – Practical Tips for Brazilian Visitors
- Drive on the left – the steering wheel is on the right side of the car. If you’re not used to it, practice in a quiet suburb before tackling city traffic.
- Speed limits: 50 km/h (urban), 80 km/h (regional roads), 120 km/h (motorways). Speed cameras are common, and fines are issued automatically.
- Roundabouts – yield to traffic already on the roundabout. Signal when you’re taking the exit.
- Parking:
- Blue lines – pay‑and‑display (use the on‑street meter or the “Park Ireland” app).
- White lines – free for up to 2 hours (unless otherwise signposted).
- Green lines – resident permits only.
- Fuel: Diesel is the most common fuel type in Ireland. Check your rental contract for the required fuel grade.
- Toll roads: The M50 around Dublin is a toll‑free ring road, but the M1, M2, and M4 have electronic tolls. Hertz offers a toll tag for €5‑€7 per day – a cheaper alternative to paying at each booth.
7. Sample Cost Breakdown – 5‑Day Rental in Dublin (Mid‑June 2025)
| Item | Daily Rate (EUR) | 5‑Day Total | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy car (e.g., Fiat Panda) | €28 | €140 | Unlimited km, Full‑to‑Full fuel |
| Super CDW (zero excess) | €17 | €85 | Recommended for peace of mind |
| Toll tag (optional) | €6 | €30 | Saves 30‑40 % on tolls |
| GPS navigation (if not using phone) | €5 | €25 | Not needed if you have data |
| Grand Total | — | €280 | Approx. €56 per day |
Prices are indicative; actual rates vary by season, vehicle class, and availability.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1 – Can I use my Brazilian licence without an IDP if I’m only staying a few days?
A: No. Irish law requires an International Driving Permit for any non‑EU licence, regardless of trip length. The penalty for driving without an IDP can be a fine of up to €1 200.
Q2 – What if I lose my IDP while in Ireland?
A: Contact the nearest Brazilian embassy or consulate (in Dublin or London) for a temporary replacement. Meanwhile, you can still drive if you have the original Brazilian licence and can produce a photocopy of the IDP, but you may be asked to stop by the Gardaí (Irish police) for verification.
Q3 – Do I need a credit card, or can I use a debit card?
A: Hertz in Ireland accepts only credit cards for the security deposit. Some locations may allow a debit card with a pre‑authorisation, but the hold can be as high as €1 000 and may be frozen for several days after return.
Q4 – Are there any age restrictions for renting a compact car?
A: Minimum age is 21 years. Drivers aged 21‑24 will pay a young driver surcharge (≈ €15‑€25 per day). Drivers under 21 are not permitted to rent from Hertz in Ireland.
Q5 – How many miles can I drive?
A: Most Hertz rentals in Ireland come with unlimited mileage, which is ideal for day trips to the Wicklow Mountains or the Cliffs of Moher. Always confirm the mileage policy when you sign the contract.
Q6 – What should I do if I’m stopped by the Gardaí?
A: Show your passport, Brazilian licence, and IDP. If you have a rental agreement, present it as well. The Gardaí may ask about your destination and purpose of travel; answer politely and keep your documents organized.
Q7 – Can I return the car at a different Hertz location?
A: Yes, Hertz offers a one‑way rental option. Expect an additional fee (usually €50‑€100) depending on the drop‑off point. Book this in advance to guarantee vehicle availability.
Q8 – Is it cheaper to book online vs. at the airport?
A: Generally, online bookings receive a discount of 10‑15 % compared with walk‑in rates. Use the Hertz website or reputable travel portals, and look for promo codes for “EUR‑IRE‑2025”.
9. Quick Checklist Before You Depart Brazil
| ✔️ Done? | Task | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) | 2 weeks before departure | |
| Print a copy of the IDP and passport | 1 week before departure | |
| Reserve your Hertz car (online) | ASAP – especially for summer travel | |
| Purchase travel insurance with car‑rental coverage (optional) | Before leaving Brazil | |
| Confirm credit‑card limit for deposit (≈ €1 000) | Before flight | |
| Download the “Park Ireland” app (for city parking) | Before arrival | |
| Check the pre‑rental checklist template | Day of pick‑up |
10. Final Thoughts – Enjoy the Emerald Isle with Confidence
Navigating a foreign country with a driver’s licence from another continent can feel daunting, but the process is straightforward once you have the right documents. By securing an International Driving Permit, meeting Hertz’s paperwork requirements, and equipping yourself with adequate insurance, you’ll be free to roam Dublin’s cobblestone streets, sip a pint at a traditional pub, and venture out to the breathtaking coastal drives that make Ireland unforgettable.
Remember: the Irish road network is well‑signposted, the drivers are courteous, and the scenery is second to none. With your Brazilian licence and a valid IDP in hand, the only thing left to worry about is which route you’ll take first.
Safe travels, and may your journey be as smooth as a Dublin sunrise over the River Liffey! 🚗🌈