Car tag installation guide
A practical, Ireland-focused walkthrough to mount and activate your e‑toll car tag for use on the M50 and other toll roads. Clear steps, compatibility checks, and troubleshooting to keep you compliant and moving.
- Step-by-step mounting instructions
- Activation & pairing tips
- Common issues and fixes
Quick overview
Tags (transponders) are lightweight devices affixed inside your windscreen that communicate with toll gantries. Proper placement and activation ensure the correct vehicle is charged automatically on the M50 and other Irish toll routes.
- Check tag compatibility with your vehicle and windshield type.
- Choose the mounting location (typically behind rear view mirror or center top of windscreen).
- Clean surface, remove backing, and firm press to attach.
- Activate the tag via your tag provider or account portal.
Compatibility & placement
Not every tag or vehicle setup behaves the same. Below is a quick compatibility guide — always confirm with your tag provider.
| Vehicle / Glass | Recommended Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard cars (single windscreen) | Top centre behind mirror | Most reliable |
| Cars with metallic windscreen coating | Lower centre or passenger side | Test read before travel |
| Commercial vehicles / vans | High-mount or dash-mounted (consult provider) | May require external mount |
| Motorbikes | Handlebar mount (if supported) | Provider-specific solutions |
Step-by-step installation
1. Inspect & prepare
Confirm your tag model and read provider instructions. Identify a clean, dry patch of glass.
2. Clean surface
Use isopropyl alcohol or a gentle glass cleaner; dry fully to ensure adhesion.
3. Attach & align
Peel backing and press for 10 seconds. Avoid moving the device for at least 1 hour.
After mounting, follow provider activation steps — typically logging into your account and registering the tag serial number with your vehicle registration. Test by driving through a low-speed toll lane and checking your account for a read.
Troubleshooting
Safety, privacy & legal notes (Ireland)
Under Irish tolling rules, drivers are responsible for correct payment of tolls. Tags transmit minimal data for read purposes and are governed by applicable privacy and data protection laws (GDPR). Keep registration and provider details up to date to avoid penalty notices.
- Retain proof of purchase and tag serial number.
- Notify your tag provider immediately if the tag is lost or transferred.
- Check your account statements regularly for reads and charges.
Resources & next steps
Contact us
Need personalised help? Our team supports installation and activation across Dublin and wider Ireland.
Contacts
If you encounter a technical issue after following these steps, capture photos of the mounted tag and any fault messages, then contact your provider or reach out to us via the Contacts page for guidance.
Frequently asked questions
Tags are typically registered to a vehicle. Moving may be allowed if you update registration with your provider; check terms before swapping devices.
Activation varies (instant to 24 hours). Test with a low-speed read and confirm in your provider account.