Highway road at sunset
Updated January 2026

Your Complete Guide to the M50 Toll Road

Navigate Dublin's busiest motorway with confidence. Expert tips, current rates, and everything you need to know about eFlow barrier-free tolling.

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Dublin's Orbital Motorway

The M50 is Ireland's busiest motorway, forming a C-shaped orbital route around Dublin. Carrying over 140,000 vehicles daily, it connects major routes from the M1 in the north to the M11 in the south.

Unlike traditional toll roads, the M50 uses a modern barrier-free tolling system operated by eFlow on behalf of Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII). This means no stopping at toll booths - overhead cameras capture your vehicle registration as you pass through the toll point between Junction 6 (N3 Blanchardstown) and Junction 7 (N4 Lucan).

43km Total Length
140,000+ Daily Vehicles
17 Junctions
M50 Motorway aerial view showing multiple lanes and traffic Image: Wikimedia Commons

What You Need to Know

Essential information for first-time and regular M50 users

Barrier-Free Tolling

No need to stop or slow down. Overhead cameras automatically capture your registration plate as you pass through the toll point.

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Multiple Payment Options

Choose from Tag accounts for regular users, Video accounts for occasional drivers, or pay-as-you-go for unregistered vehicles.

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Payment Deadline

Unregistered users must pay by 8pm the day after travelling to avoid penalty charges. Set a reminder to never miss a payment.

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Save with a Tag

Tag account holders enjoy the lowest toll rates. If you use the M50 regularly, a tag can save you significant money over time.

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2026 Toll Charges

As of 1 January 2026, toll rates have been adjusted in line with the Consumer Price Index. The rate you pay depends on your vehicle type and account status.

Tag Account From €2.60 Best value for regular users
Video Account From €3.20 Great for occasional drivers
Unregistered From €3.80 Pay by 8pm next day
View Full Rate Table
European motorway with clear signage Image: Rawpixel

Top Tips for M50 Users

Make your journey smoother with these practical recommendations

01

Register for a Tag Account

If you use the M50 regularly, a tag account offers the lowest rates and automatic payment. You will never have to worry about missing a deadline again.

02

Set Payment Reminders

Using an unregistered vehicle? Set a calendar reminder for 7pm the following day to ensure you pay before the 8pm deadline and avoid penalties.

03

Keep Your Plate Clean

The ANPR cameras need to read your registration clearly. A dirty or obscured plate could lead to payment issues and potential penalties.

04

Check Rental Car Terms

Renting a car in Ireland? Ask the rental company about toll arrangements. Some include tags, others charge administrative fees for toll processing.

Have Questions About the M50?

Our comprehensive FAQ section covers common queries about tolls, payments, penalties, and more. Cannot find what you need? Get in touch with our team.