When must I use headlights, seat belts and child seats in Ireland?
Seat belts are compulsory for every occupant where one is fitted, front and back, and the driver is legally responsible for passengers under 17. Driving without one brings three penalty points and a €120 fixed charge. Children under 150 centimetres in height or 36 kilograms in weight must use a child restraint suited to their size in cars, and a rear facing seat is illegal in a front seat with an active airbag. Headlights: dipped beams are required at night and in poor visibility, and the Gardaí advise dipped headlights in dull daytime conditions too, especially on rural roads. If in doubt, lights on.
Useful pages: Driving in Ireland: the full guide · An Ireland road trip · Dublin · County Kerry · Scenic drives in Ireland · Killarney · Healthcare and emergencies · Plan your journey · Northern Ireland
Sources
- Road Safety Authority: drink driving limits, seat belts, child restraints and safe passing distances for cyclists, rsa.ie
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