Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

Ireland Expat Forum

Car insurance - driving license

New Topic Newest First
mover01
  4/15/2016 10:36 EST

Hi, I have seen this topic before here but wanted to start a new discussion on my situation. I am now in Ireland for four years. I moved and left everything I had and knew to come back and take care of my mother. It has been quite an ordeal and I won't bother you with those details. Mom is now in Nursing Home. I was unable to leave her alone so now I decided to get my Irish license and get out and about finally. The hoops I had to jump through to get a learners permit were amazing. I have one now. I looked high and low in Kerry for someone to give me the mandatory EDT training required lessons on automatic test car. None, so I said if I am to get anywhere I must try the manual. Hate it took 9 lessons. Muscle memory of over 30 years on auto, hate manual and have lousy ankle to boot on left clutch foot. I thought I would buy an automatic so I could finish the EDT and take the road test on automatic. Problem of course is getting insurance. They do not take into consideration your USA license. Substantial reduction someone noted on insurance premium may be possible if you still have an insurance policy and usually they only consider it for two years back. Does anyone know insurance agents that have helped them. I have been quoted insurance under my learner permit of an exorbitant amount, enough to purchase an older model car for God's sakes. Also, if I get the license somehow, the rates will still be sky high. They do not consider your USA license driving time only your learner permit in Ireland. Any help would be appreciated. I am looking at forgetting about the whole mess, not wanting to put anymore money into a losing proposition. I have had a miserable time here in Ireland on many counts and I am a dual Irish American citizen born in Ireland.

ihoney
  4/19/2016 06:49 EST

Related question: Do I need to have an Irish drivers license to buy and insure a car?

GeoBlueGeoBlue
Get Quote

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!

GeoBlueGeoBlue

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote

Meachair54
  4/19/2016 16:51 EST

No you do not need a Irish drivers license to purchase a car or insurance, but the cost of insurance will be high if you don't have a letter from your ins. co. Stating a good record. You can drive on your license in Ireland for one year ,then you 're required to get a Irish license if you are staying past that one year mark. Good Luck!

ihoney
  4/20/2016 08:56 EST

Thanks for the info!

008
  4/20/2016 12:39 EST

Hi there. I went through all the insurance problems. The only co. To insure with no problem was a American co. (Clements) l am a canadian no headache at all.

DebAckley
  4/20/2016 13:10 EST

We went though Gallivan Murphy, Hooper Dolan Insurances in Killarney. Worked with Frank O'Donoghue...wonderful and helpful!

GeoBlueGeoBlue
Get Quote

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!

GeoBlueGeoBlue

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote

Strey1100
  7/8/2016 11:58 EST

It now appears that Clements is getting out of insuring in Ireland... We have had Clements insurance for the last 18 months, but just got a notice of cancellation!..

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlueGeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Living in Ireland GuideLiving in Ireland Guide

The passion that expats in Ireland have for their adoptive land is often truly amazing. Many get absolutely absorbed in the culture, the people and everything else that Ireland has to offer.

Ireland Forum Ireland Forum
Join our Ireland forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Ireland.

Contribute to Ireland Network Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Ireland.

Best Places to Live in Ireland Best Places to Live in Ireland

If you're considering a move to Ireland, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Ireland in 2023.

Healthcare in IrelandHealthcare in Ireland

Expats in Ireland face very specific timelines and rules when it comes to getting healthcare in Ireland. It's important to understand how this will impact your journey and your individual health before you decide to move to Ireland.

Cost of Living in IrelandCost of Living in Ireland

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Ireland.

Moving to IrelandMoving to Ireland Guide

Expats moving to Ireland have a wide variety of options in terms of great places to live. People moving to Ireland for work, to retire or for any other reason can realize the life they imagine if they do enough research before taking the plunge.

Real Estate in IrelandReal Estate in Ireland

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Ireland.

Pros Cons of Living in IrelandPros & Cons of Living in Ireland

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Ireland.

Retiring in IrelandRetiring in Ireland

Advice for people retiring in Ireland.

10 Tips for Living in Ireland10 Tips for Living in Ireland

If you've recently arrived in Ireland, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Ireland.

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlueGeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Contribute to Ireland Network Contribute
Help others in Ireland by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Ireland.

Allianz Care
Allianz Care

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal