One-way trafficIreland
Traffic rules
Ireland
1. One-way traffic
One-way traffic means that vehicles on a road or carriageway may travel only in one designated direction. The permitted direction is normally indicated by traffic signs, lane arrows or road markings.
Some road users, such as cyclists or public-transport vehicles, may be allowed to travel in the opposite direction when signs expressly permit it. A one-way road does not by itself determine the speed limit, priority or parking rules.
How should I read a one-way restriction in Ireland?
Irish one-way restrictions govern the designated direction of travel. Read the direction, entry restriction and any marked lanes rather than relying only on a navigation instruction.
🔗 rsa.ie • RSA Rules of the Road — guidance, law date 1 March 2025; read with later amendments
May cyclists travel against the general traffic direction in Ireland?
Ireland permits pedal cycles, the legally defined e-mopeds and electric scooters to travel against the general flow on a one-way street where RUS 059A or RUS 059B provides that arrangement. A separately signed contraflow cycle track also has its own direction rule. Bicycles seen coming the other way do not establish permission on an unsigned street.
🔗 rsa.ie • RSA Rules of the Road — guidance, law date 1 March 2025; read with later amendments
Does one-way traffic give me priority or a different speed limit in Ireland?
A one-way restriction concerns direction. Continue to follow the applicable speed limit, signals, give-way or stop controls and junction-priority rules. Where authorised counterflow traffic exists, check for it before turning or crossing; your permitted direction is not automatic junction priority.
🔗 rsa.ie • RSA Rules of the Road — guidance, law date 1 March 2025; read with later amendments
