Denmark’s new winter tire law has sparked debate. Critics call it confusing for drivers and rental companies, while the transport minister insists the rules are clear and necessary for safer roads.
New Rules Cause Confusion
From July 1, 2025, it became illegal to drive in Denmark with summer tires when snow, frost, or ice is present on the roads. The law aims to improve traffic safety but has left many car renters frustrated. According to the new winter tire law, the responsibility for ensuring that a car has the correct tires lies entirely with the driver, even when the car is rented.
Transport Minister Thomas Danielsen rejects criticism and says the regulation is straightforward. In his view, drivers must always check that their vehicle meets legal requirements before they start driving.
Legal Responsibility Lies With Drivers
Denmark’s Traffic Act requires the driver to ensure that a vehicle is roadworthy and that the tires are suitable for weather conditions. If the police stop a car equipped with summer tires in wintery conditions, the driver gets the fine, not the rental company.
The law does not force rental companies to equip all cars with winter tires during the cold months. Instead, customers must actively choose the option when booking. This has led to confusion, as many renters assume that cars automatically come fitted with the right tires during winter.
Criticism From FDM and Drivers
The Danish Automobile Association (FDM) believes the legislation is too vague. They argue that while it is positive that winter tires are required under certain conditions, the law lacks a clear definition of what counts as “winter conditions.” FDM also suggests setting specific dates, making it easier for drivers and authorities to know when the rule applies.
Many customers have shared stories of picking up rental cars equipped only with summer tires. Travelers arriving from countries like Greece and the Czech Republic say they were surprised that winter tires were an optional extra. They assumed it was a legal standard in Denmark’s colder months.
Rental Companies Under Pressure
Rental companies such as Sixt and Europcar admit that the new rules have created practical issues. They offer winter tires as an add-on when available, but inventory and logistics make it hard to guarantee that all vehicles meet the law in changing weather.
Executives from Sixt and Europcar argue that the government should follow Sweden’s approach, where a fixed winter tire period runs from December 1 to March 31 whenever winter conditions apply. This, they say, gives both customers and companies clearer rules to follow.
Europcar explains that when customers book online, they can choose winter tires for an added fee. If they decline, the booking system requires them to acknowledge their choice before completing the reservation. Still, critics argue this does not go far enough to protect unaware foreign renters.
Calls for Better Communication
FDM believes that rental companies could easily avoid many of these problems by fitting winter tires on all vehicles during the winter season. They stress that clear communication at the rental counter is crucial so customers know exactly what they are getting.
Some companies are considering updating their policies to automatically include winter tires for all vehicles in winter months, but they want stronger government guidance before making permanent changes.
Minister Rejects All Changes
Despite widespread criticism, Minister Thomas Danielsen says no revisions are necessary. He insists that drivers are always responsible for ensuring their cars comply with the law. He also opposes setting fixed dates for mandatory winter tires. According to him, such a system could unfairly penalize drivers using safe, weather-appropriate tires outside arbitrary calendar limits.
The debate highlights a broader challenge in balancing safety, flexibility, and practical enforcement. For now, both locals and visitors driving in Denmark must stay alert to sudden changes in weather and remain aware that responsibility lies entirely with them.
Sources and References
The Danish Dream: Winter Tires in Denmark Now Mandatory Under New Law
The Danish Dream: Cars in Denmark for Foreigners
TV2: Lov om vinterdæk møder kritik – ministeren afviser at ændre reglerne
