If you drive in the Republic of Ireland, there are many similarities to driving in the UK, not least that in both countries, cars are driven on the left side of the road and are usually right-hand-drive.

Be aware that in common with many parts of Europe road laws are strictly enforced in Ireland with very little leeway, although a police officer is not often seen in rural areas.

Drink driving laws are similar to the UK, only allowing 0.8 milligrams of alcohol per millilitre of blood. Fines and a points system for Irish drivers have made a great deal of difference to driver behaviour.

Be warned that speed limits are implemented rigorously and speed cameras are even more frequent than the UK. Ireland has changed to the metric system for road signs, so distance and speed limit signs are shown in kilometres and kilometres per hour. There was a transition period when both old and new signs were still shown giving a mix of imperial and metric measurement, but the old signs have now been removed. Ireland has also made steps to improve the road signage and it is easier to navigate by roads signs than ever before.

You should always carry your driving licence, vehicle registration document and certificate of motor insurance. If your licence does not incorporate a photograph, ensure you carry your passport to validate it. If the vehicle is not registered in your name, carry a letter from the registered owner giving you permission to drive.

Be aware that on the spot fines are issued for parking offences and you should ensure an official receipt is issued by the officer collecting the fine.

European registered vehicles displaying Euro plates (circle of 12 stars above the national identifier on blue background) no longer need a national identity sticker when driving in European Union countries.

You should not use your horn between 11.30pm and 7am. Dipped headlights must be used in poor daytime visibility and motorcycles must use dipped headlights during the day at all times.

As in most countries, it is illegal to drive and use a hand-held mobile phone in Ireland.

Parking regulations are strictly enforced, particularly in Dublin city with tow trucks and vehicle disabling programs in operation.

Many motorways in Ireland are toll roads. The tolls vary in cost so it is advisable to visit the Transport Infrastructure Ireland website at www.tii.ie.

That said, motorways in the Irish Republic are still relatively few, linking the strategic cities such as Dublin, Cork and Galway and the tolls are generally quite low. The M50 carries a toll on a strategic section near Dublin airport and the best way for visitors to pay is online. Drivers collecting a hire car from the airport are most likely to be liable for the toll, unless heading north.

Number plate recognition is used to identify non-payment but drivers are given up to 8pm the following day to pay, see www.eflow.ie/i-want-to/pay-a-toll for payment options, which can be made via a smartphone.