Are you going to drive in Denmark – in your own car or a rental car?
Here is an easy-to-understand guide to the most important rules so you can drive legally and safely: speed limits, blood alcohol content, mobile phone use, lights, winter tires, and environmental zones in the largest cities.
The guide has been updated with practical advice so you avoid fines and have a safe trip on Danish roads.
Quick overview
- Speed (car): 50 km/h in the city, 80 km/h on rural roads, and up to 130 km/h on motorways (some areas lower).
- Blood alcohol limit: 0.5 ‰ (0.2 ‰ for new drivers from 2025).
- Mobile in the car: Handheld use is prohibited and results in a fine + license suspension.
- Lys: The light should be on around the clock – even in daylight.
- Winter and studded tires Winter tires are not mandatory but recommended; studded tires are allowed 1. November – 15. April.
- Environmental zones Special requirements for diesel cars in Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense, and Aalborg.
Speed limits in Denmark
The following standard limits apply in Denmark:
- Suburban areas: 50 km/h
- Main road: 80 km/h
- Motorway Up to 130 km/h
Some sections have lower or higher speed limits – always follow the signs.
Remember that speeding fines in Denmark can be high, and foreign drivers can also be fined.
Alcohol and blood alcohol concentration
The general blood alcohol limit is 0.5 ‰, and it is highly recommended to leave the car parked if you have been drinking.
From July 1, 2025 A lower limit is introduced on 0.2 ‰ for new drivers.
Alcohol checks are common, and violations can lead to license suspension and hefty fines.
Mobile phone in the car
It is Illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving - also at red lights or in queues.
The punishment is normal 1,500 kr. together A clip in the driver's license.
Use a hands-free device or voice control instead.
Light and visibility
There must be in Denmark Always have lights on the car24 hours a day – also in daylight.
Modern cars usually have automatic daytime running lights, but check that the taillights also turn on, especially in fog or rain.
Winter tires and studded tires
- Winter tires Not mandatory, but strongly recommended in frost and snow.
- Pig Cage: Allowed from November 1 to April 15.
If you use studded tires, they must be mounted on all wheels (including any trailer).
Environmental zones in Denmark
The four largest cities – Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Aarhus, Odense, and Aalborg - all environmental zones that especially impose requirements diesel cars.
Cars without a particulate filter are not allowed to enter the zone.
Foreign diesel vehicles must is registered digitally, before they enter an environmental zone. The registration is valid for five years.
Obligation to Yield and Traffic
- You shall drive on the right side Overtake on the left.
- Right of way to the right applies at intersections without signs
- Ved red shark teeth or triangleGive obligation.
- Bridge seat belt In all places.
- Children Must be secured in an approved child seat or booster seat.
- Always give way to emergency vehicles.
Documents and equipment
When you are driving in Denmark, you must have:
- Valid driver's license
- The car's registration certificate
- Insurance certificate
- Warning triangle Requirements in case of a breakdown
- Reflective vest recommended, especially in the dark
Practical tips for travelers
- Plan the route In advance, check the weather and roadwork.
- Brothers and ferries Storebælt and Øresund are toll bridges.
- Parking: Buyers have zone tags – use the app or machine.
- Car rental: Check coverage, winter equipment, and border crossings if you are driving to Sweden or Germany.