Ireland Toll Guide
Choosing the right toll tag can save you time, money, and hassle when driving in Ireland. With several options available, understanding the differences between toll tags and video accounts helps you make an informed decision. This comprehensive guide compares all available options to help you find the best solution for your needs.
Understanding Toll Tag Technology
Toll tags use Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to communicate with toll gantries. When you pass under a toll point, the tag transmits your account information, and the toll is automatically deducted from your balance. This happens in milliseconds without requiring you to slow down.
Available Options in Ireland
1. eFlow Tag Account
The most popular option for Irish toll roads:
- Coverage: M50 and compatible with other Irish tolls
- Cost: €5 for the tag (one-time fee)
- Toll rates: Lowest available (€2.10 for cars on M50)
- Installation: Simple windscreen mount with adhesive
- Account management: Online portal and mobile app
- Best for: Regular commuters and frequent travelers
2. eFlow Video Account
The tag-free alternative:
- Coverage: Same as tag account
- Cost: Free to set up
- Toll rates: Same as tag account
- Technology: ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition)
- Setup: Register online with vehicle details
- Best for: Those who prefer no physical device
3. One-Time Payment
Pay-as-you-go option:
- Coverage: All Irish toll roads
- Cost: No setup fee
- Toll rates: Higher (€3.10 for cars on M50)
- Payment window: Before 8pm next day
- Methods: Online, phone, retail outlets
- Best for: Occasional visitors
Recommendation
For anyone using Irish toll roads more than once per month, an eFlow tag or video account offers the best value. The savings on toll rates quickly offset any initial costs.
Detailed Comparison
Cost Analysis
For Daily Commuters (M50 twice daily, 5 days/week):
- Tag/Video Account: €1,092 per year
- One-Time Payments: €1,612 per year
- Annual Savings: €520 with account
- Tag pays for itself in: Less than 1 week
For Weekly Users (4 trips per week):
- Tag/Video Account: €436.80 per year
- One-Time Payments: €644.80 per year
- Annual Savings: €208 with account
- Tag pays for itself in: Less than 2 weeks
For Monthly Users (8 trips per month):
- Tag/Video Account: €201.60 per year
- One-Time Payments: €297.60 per year
- Annual Savings: €96 with account
- Tag pays for itself in: Less than 1 month
Convenience Factors
eFlow Tag:
- Completely hands-free operation
- No need to remember to pay
- Automatic toll deduction
- Works on multiple toll roads
- Can transfer between vehicles
Video Account:
- No device to install or maintain
- Works immediately upon registration
- Perfect for multiple vehicles
- No windscreen clutter
- Same rates as tag account
One-Time Payment:
- No account setup required
- Pay only when you use tolls
- No ongoing commitments
- Flexible payment methods
- Suitable for infrequent users
Installation and Setup
Installing Your eFlow Tag
- Clean the inside of your windscreen where the tag will be mounted
- Choose a position behind the rearview mirror, at least 5cm from the edge
- Remove the protective backing from the adhesive
- Press the tag firmly against the windscreen
- Wait 24 hours before using to ensure proper adhesion
- Test the tag by checking online after your first journey
Setting Up a Video Account
- Visit the eFlow website
- Select "Video Account" option
- Enter your vehicle registration number accurately
- Provide personal and payment details
- Add credit to your account
- Receive confirmation email
- Start using toll roads immediately
Special Considerations
Multiple Vehicles
If you drive more than one vehicle:
- Video accounts are ideal - register all vehicles under one account
- Tags can be moved between vehicles but must be reinstalled properly
- Consider one tag per vehicle for maximum convenience
- Business users can manage fleet accounts centrally
Motorcycles
Motorcycle riders have unique needs:
- Standard tags may not fit well on motorcycle windscreens
- Special motorcycle tags available with alternative mounting
- Video accounts work perfectly for motorcycles
- Ensure your registration plate is clean and visible
Rental Vehicles
When renting a car in Ireland:
- Check if the rental company provides toll coverage
- Some rentals include toll fees in the rental rate
- Others charge administrative fees for toll processing
- Set up temporary video account for longer rentals
- Keep all toll payment receipts
Pro Tip
Video accounts are perfect for households with multiple vehicles. Register all your family's cars under one account and manage everything from a single portal.
Account Management
Online Portal Features
- View real-time account balance
- Check journey history
- Add or remove vehicles
- Update payment methods
- Download statements
- Set up automatic top-ups
- Update contact information
Mobile App Advantages
- Instant notifications for tolls
- Quick balance checks
- One-tap top-ups
- Journey tracking
- Low balance alerts
- Push notifications for important updates
Maintenance and Support
Tag Maintenance
- Tags typically last 5-7 years
- Battery-powered - no charging needed
- Keep windscreen clean around tag
- Don't remove and reapply repeatedly
- Contact support if tag stops working
- Replacement tags available for €10
Common Issues and Solutions
Tag not reading:
- Check windscreen tint - metallic tints can interfere
- Ensure tag is properly positioned
- Verify tag is still active in your account
- Contact customer service for testing
Video account not recognizing plate:
- Verify registration number is correct
- Clean your license plate
- Check for obstructions (bike racks, etc.)
- Ensure plate is standard issue and readable
Using Tags Across Ireland
Your eFlow tag or video account works on:
- M50 Dublin (barrier-free)
- Dublin Port Tunnel
- M1 Gormanston-Monasterboice
- M3 Clonee-Kells
- M4 Kilcock-Kinnegad
- N6 Galway-Ballinasloe
- M7/M8 Portlaoise-Castletown/Cullahill
- Limerick Tunnel
- Waterford City Bypass
Which Option is Right for You?
Choose eFlow Tag if you:
- Use toll roads regularly (weekly or more)
- Want the most automated experience
- Drive the same vehicle most of the time
- Don't mind a device on your windscreen
- Want the fastest toll processing
Choose Video Account if you:
- Drive multiple vehicles frequently
- Prefer no physical device
- Have windscreen tinting issues
- Want same low rates as tag
- Like clean windscreen appearance
Choose One-Time Payments if you:
- Visit Ireland occasionally
- Use toll roads less than monthly
- Don't want an ongoing account
- Prefer paying only when needed
- Can remember to pay after each trip
Customer Experiences
Real feedback from Irish toll road users:
"Switched to a video account for our three family cars. Managing everything from one app is so much easier than remembering to pay tolls separately." - Sarah M., Dublin
"The eFlow tag has saved me hundreds of euros this year. Set it up once and forget about it - perfect for my daily commute." - John D., Cork
"As a visitor to Ireland, I appreciated the one-time payment option. Paid online right after using the M50, no hassle." - Emma L., UK
Conclusion
Choosing between a toll tag, video account, or one-time payments depends on your individual circumstances. For most regular users, an eFlow tag or video account offers the best combination of convenience and savings. The small setup effort pays dividends through lower toll rates and automated payment processing.
Consider your driving patterns, number of vehicles, and personal preferences when making your decision. Whichever option you choose, understanding how it works and maintaining your account properly ensures a smooth, penalty-free experience on Irish toll roads.
Remember, you can always change your payment method if your needs evolve. Start with what seems best for you now, and adjust as you learn more about your toll road usage patterns.