Introduction: Shift Gears Toward a High-Paying Career in Ireland
Truck driving in Ireland isn’t just about long roads and cargo – it’s an in-demand, well-paying profession with real career opportunities, especially for foreign workers. Whether you’re an experienced driver looking to move abroad or someone seeking a stable job with growth potential, truck driving jobs in Ireland with high salaries offer a solid way forward.
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of truck driving roles, salary expectations, work visa routes, and how foreigners can break into this thriving industry. Let’s help you start your engine — and your journey to a better life in Ireland.
Why Truck Driving Jobs Are in Demand in Ireland
1. Booming Transport & Logistics Sector
Ireland’s economy depends heavily on road freight. With the growth of e-commerce, construction, and international trade, there’s a shortage of qualified HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) drivers across the country.
2. Aging Workforce & Labor Shortage
Many Irish drivers are nearing retirement age, creating a gap that foreign truck drivers are encouraged to fill. Employers are now more open to offering visa sponsorships and full-time contracts to skilled drivers from outside the EU.
3. Attractive Pay Packages
Irish truck drivers can earn €35,000–€55,000 annually, with experienced long-haul or specialized drivers earning €60,000+. High salaries, bonuses, and job security make this a lucrative field for hard-working individuals.
Types of Truck Driving Jobs in Ireland
HGV Driver (Heavy Goods Vehicle)
These roles involve transporting goods between warehouses, ports, and retailers. Often full-time and may include:
- Local or regional deliveries
- Long-haul trips within and outside of Ireland
- Night or weekend shifts (usually with bonus pay)
Multi-Drop Delivery Driver
Common in courier and logistics companies like DPD, DHL, or An Post. These drivers handle multiple deliveries in a day across cities or counties.
Refrigerated Goods Drivers
Transporting perishable items like dairy or frozen food, often requiring timely, temperature-controlled logistics.
Fuel Tanker or Hazardous Material Drivers
Specialized roles requiring additional certification. These jobs are among the highest-paid truck driving roles in Ireland.
✅ Tip: If you hold a CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) and a clean license from your home country, your chances of getting hired improve dramatically.
Visa Options for Foreign Truck Drivers
1. General Employment Permit (GEP)
Truck drivers are eligible under Ireland’s General Employment Permit scheme. Key conditions:
- Job offer from an Irish-registered employer
- Salary of at least €30,000/year
- Employer covers permit costs in most cases
2. Critical Skills Employment Permit
While truck driving isn’t currently on Ireland’s “critical skills” list, fuel transporters or special cargo drivers may qualify if their role is specialized and high-risk.
3. Intra-Company Transfer
If you work for a multinational with branches in Ireland, you may transfer internally.
⚠️ Important: Ensure your foreign driving license is valid in Ireland or can be easily exchanged. Many non-EU countries have agreements with Irish authorities for smooth license conversion.
Salary Expectations for Truck Drivers in Ireland
| Role | Average Annual Salary | Extra Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level HGV Driver | €32,000 – €38,000 | Paid holidays, bonuses, training |
| Experienced Long-Haul Driver | €45,000 – €55,000 | Night pay, overtime, travel allowances |
| Specialized Tanker Driver | €55,000 – €65,000+ | Safety bonuses, high-risk pay |
| Courier/Parcel Delivery Driver | €30,000 – €40,000 | Company vehicle, fuel card, uniform provided |
Real-Life Example: Driving Toward a Better Life
Rahim from India, a licensed HGV driver with five years of experience, applied through an Irish recruitment agency and secured a General Employment Permit within 3 months. Now based in Galway, he earns €42,000 annually and sends money home monthly.
“Ireland welcomed me with open arms. The roads are beautiful, the work is steady, and the pay lets me live comfortably and save. I’m working toward residency now.”
Requirements to Get Hired as a Truck Driver in Ireland
Most employers require:
- Valid Category C or CE driving license (equivalent to HGV in Ireland)
- CPC certification
- Clean driving record
- English language proficiency (basic conversational is usually sufficient)
Preferred but not mandatory:
- Experience with EU road regulations
- Digital tachograph card
- ADR certificate for hazardous materials
Where to Find Truck Driving Jobs in Ireland
Top Job Boards
- IrishJobs.ie
- Jobs.ie
- Indeed Ireland
- Loadlink
- EURES Portal (for EU/EEA nationals)
Recruitment Agencies
- FRS Recruitment
- CPL Logistics
- DriverHire Ireland
Company Websites
Apply directly to companies like:
- Musgrave
- BWG Foods
- An Post
- DPD
- DHL Ireland
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Hired
- Tailor your CV for Irish employers: highlight safety, punctuality, and route knowledge.
- Include international driving experience, if applicable.
- Attach copies of your driving license, CPC, and any certifications.
- Be honest about visa status – many employers are willing to sponsor if you’re a good fit.
FAQs: Truck Driving Jobs in Ireland
Q: Can foreigners apply for truck driving jobs in Ireland?
A: Yes, especially if you have a valid HGV license, CPC certification, and are eligible for a General Employment Permit.
Q: What is the average truck driver salary in Ireland?
A: Salaries range from €32,000 to €65,000 depending on experience and job type.
Q: Are Irish employers offering visa sponsorships?
A: Many logistics and transportation firms are actively sponsoring non-EU drivers due to local shortages.
Q: Do I need to convert my driving license?
A: In most cases, yes. Many non-EU licenses can be exchanged for an Irish equivalent. Check NDLS.ie for details.
Q: Is knowledge of Irish roads or EU regulations required?
A: It’s helpful but not mandatory. Most companies offer brief training or onboarding before you hit the road.
We’re All on a Journey – Yours Starts Here
Moving to another country for work isn’t easy. But if you’ve got the driving skills, the work ethic, and the courage to take the first step, Ireland is waiting.
From the rolling green hills to the bustling docks of Dublin, there’s a demand for people like you — dependable, experienced, and ready to roll. We understand the struggle, the paperwork, and the uncertainty. But once you’re behind the wheel, everything changes.
This could be more than just a job. It could be the road to your future.
