Welcome to Ireland
If you are visiting Ireland and planning to drive, understanding the M50 toll system is essential. The M50 is Dublin's main ring road and connects all major routes in and out of the capital. Many visitors pass through the toll point, especially when travelling between Dublin Airport and destinations to the south or west.
Key Point for Visitors
The M50 toll has no barriers or toll booths. You drive straight through without stopping. Cameras record your registration, and you must pay by 8pm the following day.
Rental Cars and M50 Tolls
When you rent a car in Ireland, it is crucial to understand your responsibility for toll charges. The rental company's policy determines who pays and how.
Check Your Rental Agreement
Before leaving the rental desk, ask about toll charges. Rental companies typically handle tolls in one of three ways:
- Toll included: Some rental packages include unlimited toll usage. The rental company has a registered account and tolls are covered.
- Toll pass option: Many companies offer an optional toll tag for an additional daily fee. This provides convenience but adds to your rental cost.
- Customer responsibility: You must pay tolls yourself. If you don't pay, the rental company will be charged and will pass this cost to you plus an administration fee.
Administration Fees
If the rental company receives a toll charge for your journey, they will typically add an administration fee of 20-30 Euro on top of the toll amount. Paying directly is much cheaper.
How Tourists Can Pay
If you are responsible for paying your own tolls, you have several options:
Pay Online
The easiest method for tourists is to pay online at the official eFlow website. You will need:
- The rental car's registration number
- The date of your journey through the toll
- A credit or debit card
Pay by Phone
You can call eFlow customer service to make a payment:
- Within Ireland: 0818 50 10 50
- International: +353 1 461 0122
Phone lines are available Monday to Friday 8am-8pm, Saturday 9am-4pm.
Pay at Payzone
Payzone outlets throughout Ireland accept toll payments. Look for the Payzone logo at convenience stores, petrol stations, and newsagents.
Tips for Tourists
Follow these tips to ensure a smooth experience with the M50 toll:
- Note the registration: When you collect your rental car, take a photo of the registration plate. You will need this number to pay the toll.
- Set a reminder: If you use the M50, set an alarm on your phone to remind you to pay before 8pm the following day.
- Enter registration correctly: When paying online, enter the registration without spaces or dashes. For example, enter "192D12345" not "192-D-12345".
- Keep your receipt: Always save proof of payment in case of queries later.
- Check your route: If possible, check whether your journey will pass through the toll section (between Junction 6 and Junction 7). Your GPS may show alternative routes.
Driving Your Own Foreign Vehicle
If you bring your own vehicle to Ireland (for example, via ferry from the UK or Europe), you are still required to pay the M50 toll if you use that section of the motorway.
The same payment options apply:
- Pay online at eflow.ie
- Pay by phone
- Pay at a Payzone outlet
Remember to pay by 8pm the day after your journey. If you do not pay, a penalty notice will be sent to the registered address of your vehicle. For foreign-registered vehicles, this process may take longer but will still result in enforcement action.
Avoiding the Toll Section
If you wish to avoid the toll entirely, you can use alternative routes around Dublin. However, these routes are typically slower and more congested than the M50.
The tolled section is only between Junction 6 (Blanchardstown/N3) and Junction 7 (Lucan/N4). If your journey does not require travelling through this section, you will not incur a toll charge even if you use other parts of the M50.
GPS Settings
Most GPS systems and navigation apps allow you to avoid toll roads. Check your settings if you prefer to take alternative routes.
Frequently Asked Questions for Tourists
What if I've already left Ireland without paying?
You can still pay online from anywhere in the world using the eFlow website. If the deadline has passed, you may receive a penalty notice at your registered address.
Can I set up an account as a tourist?
Yes, you can set up a video account with eFlow using your foreign registration. This is useful if you plan to visit Ireland regularly.
Does my UK toll tag work in Ireland?
No, UK toll tags (such as Dart Charge) do not work on Irish toll roads. You must pay separately.
Last updated: January 18, 2026. For current tourist information, visit eFlow Tourist Information.