Car insurance is a legal requirement in Ireland, but the cover behind it varies from one policy to the next. To choose a policy, start with the level of protection you need, then compare the price, excess and benefits. Roadside assistance is another decision if you want help when the car breaks down.
This guide is for drivers in the Republic of Ireland comparing policies, estimating the cost of a quote or reviewing breakdown cover alongside insurance.
In short
- Third party only, third party fire and theft, and comprehensive are the usual cover levels. Comprehensive offers the widest protection.
- Read the policy documents. Windscreen cover, personal accident cover and no claims bonus protection vary by insurer and policy.
- Your premium reflects your driving history, the car and other details. A market average is not a personal quote.
- For a quote, have your driver number, licence and vehicle details ready, plus proof of a no claims bonus if you have one.
- Roadside assistance can be held separately alongside your car insurance.
Comparing car insurance policies and providers
Before comparing prices, decide which level of cover you want:
- Third party only. This is the legal minimum. It covers your liability for injury or damage to other people and their property, but not damage to your own car.
- Third party, fire and theft. This adds protection if your car is stolen or damaged by fire.
- Comprehensive. This adds cover for damage to your own car after an accident. Other benefits depend on the policy.
Comprehensive insurance often costs more than third party, fire and theft, though your own quote depends on the vehicle and drivers. Compare the cover and excess as well as the premium. Benefits such as windscreen cover, personal accident cover, no claims bonus protection and driving other cars differ between insurers. The CCPC's car insurance guide explains the levels and what to check in the documents.
Claims support also matters. Find out how to report a claim and whether you must use an approved repairer for a particular benefit. Compare again at renewal, since prices and terms can change. AA Ireland is a broker and compares car insurance across a panel of insurers.
Understanding costs and requirements for Irish drivers
The Central Bank of Ireland reported an average written motor premium of €655 in the first half of 2025, up from €629 in 2024. This is a market average for policies sold during those periods. Your own quote may differ substantially. See the National Claims Information Database release for the figures.
Insurers consider several details when pricing a policy:
- Your age, licence and driving experience.
- Your no claims bonus and any previous claims.
- The car's make, model, value and performance.
- Where you live, how you use the car and any penalty points.
Have your licence, driver number, vehicle registration and relevant claims history to hand when seeking a quote. Since 31 March 2025, you must provide your driver number and those of any named drivers when taking out or renewing motor insurance. If you have a no claims bonus or named driving experience, keep the relevant proof ready too. Acceptance criteria and minimum premiums vary between insurers, so compare quotes for your own circumstances.
Pairing car insurance with roadside assistance
Insurance and roadside assistance address different situations. Motor insurance covers the risks listed in your policy, including liability to others and, depending on the level chosen, damage to your car. Roadside assistance can arrange help when your vehicle breaks down. Some motor policies include breakdown assistance or offer it as an extra, so check what you already have.
You can hold AA car insurance and AA Membership separately. Each has its own terms. AA Membership offers 24-hour roadside assistance across Ireland. With personal membership, cover follows the member as a driver or passenger in another eligible car; vehicle membership covers the specified car instead. Patrols try to repair the vehicle at the roadside when possible.
Home Start can provide help if an eligible vehicle will not start at your home address. Rescue Plus offers further recovery and onward travel benefits subject to its terms and limits. European Breakdown Cover is a separate product for eligible trips abroad. Check the current membership terms and any breakdown benefits on your motor policy before choosing what to buy.
Ready to compare your cover?
Explore car insurance and AA Membership, then request a quote based on your driving and vehicle details.
