Car rental age restrictions

Good evening,
Maybe someone can provide a little insight on the following: Why do Ireland's car rental companies restrict car rentals to ages 75 and under? They are, I believe the only country in Europe to do this. Is their experience so bad with people over 75--none of the other countries seem to have a problem--the reason? I have been to Ireland about 15 times in the last 7 years and now I can't drive there.
Basically, it feels like Ireland is telling me they don't want my business, which will include my entire family and a number of friends who are close to that age, who will also stop visiting.
Does the Irish Tourist Board want word of this spread around? Why would I ever go to Ireland again if they make it so difficult to travel the island? And, I am not and never have been interested in tour buses.

Thank you,
Charles Hale

Hi Charles,

I'm sorry to hear you're experiencing this. It's great that you've been coming to Ireland for so many years, with your friends and family. 

From what I understand, you can hire a car when you're over the age of 75, but some rental companies can ask you to meet certain requirements. This could be a letter from a doctor or something similar. I truly don't believe these conditions have anything to do with bad experiences! They are mainly related to insurance. Rental agencies usually mention their requirements in their terms and conditions, but I'm sure they'd be happy to provide more information if you give them a call or send them an email.

You're not the first person to ask this question on here. I've found two related threads, and the answers to those might be useful to you as well. You can check out these threads on Car rental and Car hire in Ireland.

I hope that you find a rental agency that can help you out. There might be others on here who can give more tips or even recommend a car rental agency.

Have a lovely day,

Noortje