If you're a driver in Ireland, the tax relief available to you depends entirely on your role. The vast majority of drivers — including HGV drivers, van drivers, delivery drivers, taxi drivers and hackney drivers — have no flat rate expense in Revenue's official list. This guide explains exactly what you can claim.
Important: Limited Flat Rate Expense Categories for Drivers
Revenue's official flat rate expenses list includes only two driver categories: building industry drivers (€52/year) and CIÉ bus/rail/road operatives (€160/year). All other drivers must claim actual work expenses with receipts.
The Two Driver Categories With a Flat Rate Expense
No Flat Rate Expense: What These Drivers Can Claim Instead
The following driver types have no flat rate expense — but can still claim actual work-related costs with receipts:
- HGV / articulated lorry drivers
- Van drivers and delivery drivers
- Courier drivers
- Taxi and hackney drivers (employed)
- Private coach and bus company employees
Claimable Actual Expenses (Receipts Required)
- Uniforms and protective clothing: High-vis vests, safety boots, branded workwear
- CPC renewal and training: Certificate of Professional Competence fees and 35-hour periodic training
- ADR certification: Hazardous goods transport qualification costs
- Medical exam fees: Required for driving licence renewal (e.g. D1 medical)
- Small tools and equipment: Straps, torches, securing equipment
Keep Your Receipts
Unlike flat rate expenses, actual work expenses require receipts. Keep all receipts for at least 4 years — you can backdate claims that far.
What Drivers Cannot Claim
- Fuel, tolls, or parking for your commute to work
- Ordinary clothing (jeans, t-shirts, shoes worn outside work)
- Costs for a company-owned vehicle (fuel, insurance, maintenance)
- Food and drinks (different rules apply for overnight stays)
Other Tax Reliefs Drivers Can Claim
- Medical expenses: 20% tax relief on GP visits, physiotherapy, prescriptions and dental costs
- Rent tax credit: Up to €1,000/year (€2,000 for couples) if you rent privately
- Emergency tax refund: If you changed employer during the year and were placed on emergency tax
Driver? Get a Full Tax Review
We'll find every relief you're entitled to — work expenses, medical costs, rent credit and more. No refund, no fee.
Start My Free Review →No refund, no fee • TAIN: 77632V
Frequently Asked Questions
Do HGV drivers get flat rate expenses?
No. HGV and articulated lorry drivers do not have a dedicated flat rate expense category in Revenue's official schedule. You can claim actual work costs such as uniforms, CPC fees, and certification costs with receipts.
What is the flat rate expense for bus drivers?
€160/year — but only for employees of Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann, or Iarnród Éireann. Private bus company and coach company employees do not qualify for this flat rate.
Do taxi or hackney drivers get flat rate expenses?
No. Taxi and hackney drivers (whether employed or self-employed) do not have a flat rate expense category. Self-employed taxi drivers claim business expenses through their annual tax return.
Can I backdate a claim?
Yes — you can claim for the current year plus the previous 4 years. For building industry drivers entitled to €52/year, that's €208 in allowances over 4 years (€42 tax back at 20% rate).