OvertakingIreland
Traffic rules
Ireland
1. Overtaking
Overtaking is the act of passing another road user travelling in the same direction. It normally involves moving to another position or lane, passing the slower road user and returning to the appropriate position when it is safe.
Before overtaking, a driver should make sure there is sufficient visibility and space, check mirrors and blind spots, signal when required and ensure that no other road user is already overtaking. The manoeuvre must be completed without exceeding the speed limit or endangering other road users.
On which side do drivers normally overtake in Ireland?
As traffic normally keeps left, drivers ordinarily overtake on the right. This is the general rule, not permission to pass wherever a lane is available; exceptions and restrictions depend on the local law.
🔗 rsa.ie • RSA Rules of the Road — guidance, law date 1 March 2025; read with later amendments
When should you avoid overtaking in Ireland?
Do not begin if approaching traffic, restricted visibility, road markings, an intersection, a crossing or another road user makes the manoeuvre unsafe or unlawful. Check behind and ahead, allow enough space and never exceed the speed limit to complete the pass.
🔗 rsa.ie • RSA Rules of the Road — guidance, law date 1 March 2025; read with later amendments
What extra care is needed when overtaking slower road users in Ireland?
When overtaking in Ireland, do not endanger or inconvenience a cyclist, e-moped rider, e-scooter user or anyone else. RSA guidance advises at least 1 metre when passing cyclists in speed zones up to 50 km/h, and at least 1.5 metres in zones above 50 km/h. These are guidance distances alongside the legal safe-passing duty. Wait if there is insufficient room, and obey any overtaking ban, including on a signed cycle street.
🔗 rsa.ie • RSA Rules of the Road — guidance, law date 1 March 2025; read with later amendments
