Driving in Denmark: Which Side of the Road Is Used?

What side of the road does Denmark drive on? In Denmark, you drive on the right side of the road. However, to legally drive in Denmark, you can’t just hop into the driver’s seat on the right side of the vehicle and ply Danish motorways. There are rules that regulate driving in Denmark, which are strictly enforced by the Danish government. In this article, you’ll learn why you’re to drive on the right side of the road in Denmark. You’ll also become more familiar with the rules of the road in Denmark. Let’s dive in. 

Why Is Driving in Denmark Done on the Right Side?

There is no official reason why driving laws mandate right-side driving, but it’s thought that Denmark switched to driving on the right because of the influence of the French Revolution and the conquests of Napoleon Bonaparte, the then French Emperor. In the 18th century, Napoleon conquered some areas in Europe, including Italy, Poland, and Germany. 

While completing all these conquests, he worried that left-side driving made drivers, and, by implication, his men, more susceptible to enemy attacks. Back then, firearms were discharged from the right shoulder and aimed at the left-hand side of whoever the target was. Although Napoleon didn’t conquer Denmark, it’s believed that Denmark followed the right-side driving trend that he introduced in Europe at the time. So it has been till this day.

What Are the Rules of the Road in Denmark That You Should Know?

Here’s an overview of the basic rules :

Driving License Requirements

To drive a vehicle in Denmark, you must possess a valid driving licence. Visitors from the UK can use their full UK driving license without the need for an International Driving Permit. If you plan to hire a car in Denmark, ensure you have your driving licence, passport, and credit card, as car hire companies typically require these documents. If you don’t have a Danish driving license, your license from your home country will suffice. 

Speed Limits

Denmark enforces the following general speed limits:

• 50 km/h in built-up areas
• 80 km/h outside built-up areas
• 130 km/h on motorways

Always observe posted signs, as certain zones may have different speed restrictions. If you violate the speed limit, you may be liable to pay huge fines. In some instances, the charge is levied on-the-spot, but if you can’t pay it, your vehicle may be detained. 

Be cautious about where you stop and park, as these actions are prohibited on main roads and motorways. 

Overtaking Rules

In Denmark, you must overtake on the left. Overtaking on the right is prohibited unless the vehicle ahead is turning left, and there is sufficient space to pass safely. Always ensure the road ahead is clear before overtaking. 

Use of Headlights

Dipped headlights must be used at all times, day and night, by both cars and motorcycles. This regulation enhances visibility and safety on the roads. 

Alcohol Limits

The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.05%. However, it’s safest to avoid drinking any alcohol if you plan to drive, as penalties for exceeding this limit are severe. 

Cyclists

Denmark is known for its high number of cyclists. Drivers must give way to cyclists, especially when turning right, to prevent accidents. Be vigilant and always check for cyclists before making turns or opening car doors. 

Child Safety

Children under 135 cm in height must be placed in an approved child seat or booster that is appropriate for their size and weight. This ensures their safety in the event of a collision. 

Tolls

While most roads in Denmark are toll-free, certain bridges, such as the Øresund Bridge connecting Denmark and Sweden, require payment. Ensure you have the means to pay these tolls when planning your route.

Essential Documents

When driving in Denmark, you must bring the following documents:

• Valid driving licence
• Vehicle registration papers
• Proof of insurance

Having these documents readily available will help ensure you stay compliant with Danish regulations. 

Additional Tips

• All passengers must use seatbelts.
• Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
• Be aware of and respect all road signs, including red and white triangular signs indicating a need to give way to traffic.
• You must never turn off your headlights when driving. 
• When you enter a new road, you must give way to traffic on that road. 
• Don’t ever drive a vehicle in Denmark under the influence of hard drugs or euphoriants. 

Are You Allowed to Drive a Car in Denmark Without Insurance?

No, you’re not allowed to drive a car in Denmark or operate any other automobile on the road if you don’t have third-party liability insurance. This insurance policy will cover any injuries that unfortunate third parties may suffer as a result of any of your actions on the road. Car hire companies usually add the price of insurance to the hire fee, so tourists in Denmark need not worry about how to take out insurance policies for the vehicles they rent. 

If you must bring your own car to Denmark, ensure you have a Green Card or an international insurance certificate. This certificate provides financial protection for third parties who may incur losses and suffer injuries due to your actions on Danish roads. Though Denmark is in the Green Card system, not every country in Europe is too. If you’ll be visiting other European countries, first check and verify if they accept Green Cards so that you aren’t caught unawares in the net of their insurance laws. 

What Side of the Road Does Denmark Drive On? Final Thoughts on Driving Laws 

In Denmark, traffic keeps to the right, just like in most European countries. If you’re heading from the UK to Denmark, maybe passing through Belgium, knowing this is key to staying safe on the road. You’ll also need to overtake on the left – overtaking on the right is only allowed when the vehicle ahead is turning left.

For a 14-day trip or longer, make sure to take your driving licence, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration papers. If you’re just visiting, your home licence is fine, but if you plan to take up residence in Denmark, you’ll need to swap it for a Danish licence after a certain period. If you’re hiring a car, check with the hire company first, especially if you’ve had your licence for less than a year, as some may have extra conditions.

Dipped headlights must be used all day, every day—it’s a legal requirement in Denmark. Skip this, and you could face fines. Also, be ready for tolls, particularly on major routes like the Øresund Bridge to Sweden.

Parking is allowed in marked areas, but you’ll need to watch out for restricted zones outside these areas, which are usually signposted. Sticking to local rules will help you avoid trouble.

Knowing these basics will keep you safe and on the right side of the law while driving in Denmark. Once you’ve got the hang of it, you’ll be all set to explore this stunning Scandinavian country without any road drama.

Jack Lebek

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