Denmark Driving License

Denmark Driving License – Full Guide for Residents and Expats

A Danish driving license (kørekort) is an official document issued by the Danish authorities that allows individuals to legally drive motor vehicles in Denmark and across the EU. Whether you’re a Danish citizen or a foreign resident, understanding how to obtain or exchange a license in Denmark is essential.

---

Types of Driving Licenses in Denmark

Category	Vehicle Type	Minimum Age
B	Passenger cars (max 3,500 kg)	18 years
A	Motorcycles	20–24 years*
AM	Mopeds (max speed 45 km/h)	15 years
C	Trucks (over 3,500 kg)	21 years
D	Buses	24 years
BE	Car with heavy trailer	18 years

*Minimum age depends on motorcycle power and training path.

---

How to Get a Danish Driving License

If you are a first-time applicant in Denmark, you need to complete the following steps:

1. Enroll in a certified driving school
2. Pass a theory test (multiple choice, available in Danish and some other languages)
3. Complete practical driving lessons, including night and highway driving
4. Pass a practical driving test with a certified examiner
5. Undergo a vision test and a first aid course
6. Submit your application at the Borgerservice (citizen service office)

Once approved, your plastic license card will be mailed to your address.

---

Documents Required

• Valid passport or national ID
• CPR number (Danish personal ID number)
• Residency proof (if not a Danish citizen)
• Certificate of first aid training
• Certificate of passed theory and practical tests
• Medical certificate from a Danish doctor

---

Cost of a Danish Driving License (Category B)

Item	Estimated Cost (DKK)
Driving school package	10,000 – 15,000 DKK
Theory + practical test fee	1,000 – 1,500 DKK
Medical certificate	400 – 600 DKK
First aid course	600 – 800 DKK
License card issuance	280 DKK

Total cost: 12,000–18,000 DKK, depending on location and school.

---

Exchanging a Foreign Driving License

Foreign residents in Denmark may exchange their valid driving license for a Danish one depending on their country of origin.

EU/EEA citizens:

• Can use their license in Denmark
• Must exchange it only if it expires or is lost

Non-EU citizens:

• May use their license for up to 90 days
• Must exchange within 180 days of obtaining Danish residency (if from an approved country)
• May need to pass theory and/or practical test

Approved countries for direct exchange include:
USA, Canada (some provinces), Australia, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, UK, and a few others.

---

Renewing a Danish Driving License

Age Group	Validity	Medical Check Required
Under 70	15 years	No
Age 70–74	5 years	Yes
Age 75–79	2–3 years	Yes
80+	1–2 years	Yes

You can renew your license at Borgerservice with a medical certificate from your doctor.

---

Lost or Stolen License

If your license is lost or stolen:

1. Report it at Borgerservice
2. Show valid ID and proof of residence
3. Pay the replacement fee (approx. 280 DKK)
4. A temporary permit may be issued while awaiting the new card

---

Driving with a Danish License Abroad

• Valid throughout the EU/EEA without restrictions
• Accepted in most countries worldwide with or without an International Driving Permit (IDP)
• Some countries may require an IDP + Danish license for short-term stays (e.g., USA, Japan, China)

---

Key Benefits of the Danish Driving License

• Recognized across the European Union
• Easy exchange options within EU/EEA states
• High road safety standards and training requirements
• Convenient plastic card format with photo and categories

---

Conclusion

Getting a Danish driving license ensures you can drive legally and safely within Denmark and across Europe. Whether you’re a local resident, international student, or foreign professional, Denmark offers a well-regulated and standardized licensing process. Ensure your documents are in order, take quality driving lessons, and follow the guidelines for a successful application or exchange.

---

Official Source:
Traffic Authority – Færdselsstyrelsen