Denmark
International Driver's License for
Denmark
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Apply online in 2 minutes — Digital copy in 8 minutesApply in 2 minutes — Receive in 8 minutes
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Printed booklet shipped worldwide — Free ID card includedWorldwide shipping — Free ID card included
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Valid in 175+ countries — Translated into 12 languagesValid in 175+ countries — 12 Translations
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Free replacements if lost or damagedFree replacements if lost or damaged
Do You Need an IDP in Denmark?
Whether you need an International Driving Permit in Denmark depends on who you are and how long you are staying.
Last updated:
| Driver type | IDP needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist or short-term visitor | Recommended | Strongly recommended for all visitors; often required when your license is not in the local language. |
| Rental car driver | Often required | Many rental agencies ask for an IDP alongside a foreign license at pickup. |
| Long-term resident | Not sufficient | After establishing residency you will usually need a local driver's license. |
| Local license holder traveling abroad | Recommended | Carry an IDL with your national license when driving in most foreign countries. |
Rules vary by region — see the FAQ below for local requirements and traffic laws.
Documents you need
- A valid driver's license from your home country
- A passport-style photo — a phone photo is accepted
- No driving test and no DMV visit required
You do not need to be a citizen or resident to apply.
How it works
- Complete the online application — it takes about 2 minutes
- Upload your driver's license and photo
- Receive your digital IDL in about 8 minutes; the printed booklet ships worldwide
International Driver's License Information & Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driver's License in Denmark?
Most car rental agencies and local authorities in Denmark expect international visitors to carry an International Driver's License together with their home license. Since dealings with Danish police and rental counters happen in Danish, the IDL supplies the official translation that keeps those interactions and any insurance claim straightforward. Apply online through E-ITA and access your digital documents in minutes.
What is an IDL/IDP in the context of driving in Denmark?
For Denmark, an International Driver's License (IDL) — also known as an International Driving Permit (IDP) — is a translation of your national license into several languages so Danish officials and rental staff can read it. It works only alongside your original home license, never on its own.
How long can I drive in Denmark on my foreign license?
Denmark recognises a valid foreign license for the duration of a typical tourist visit, and your IDL stays valid as long as the home license it accompanies remains valid. If you settle in Denmark long-term you would exchange onto a Danish license, but for holidays and short trips your home license plus IDL is enough.
Which side of the road does Denmark drive on?
In Denmark people drive on the right side of the road. Watch for cyclists in particular — Denmark has extensive bike lanes and cyclists have priority in many situations.
What are the key traffic laws for drivers in Denmark?
* People drive on the right side of the road.
* The minimum age to drive a car is 17 years and 9 months. The minimum age to rent a car is 19 years old.
* Denmark has a national seat belt law — always wear one when available.
* Denmark prohibits mobile phone use while driving; it is best not to use your phone at all behind the wheel.
* Helmets are required for motorcycle and scooter drivers and passengers, and child passengers under the age of 5 are not allowed.
* Legal Blood Alcohol Content level: 0.05% — do not drink and drive.
* The maximum driving speed is 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas and 80 km/h (50 mph) in rural areas.
What is Denmark's drink-driving limit?
Denmark sets the legal Blood Alcohol Content limit at 0.05%, and enforcement is strict with roadside checks. Penalties escalate quickly with higher readings, so the safe choice is not to drink before driving in Denmark.
How old do I have to be to rent a car in Denmark?
The minimum age to rent a car in Denmark is 19, while the minimum age to drive is 17 years and 9 months. Younger renters may face a young-driver surcharge, and rental desks commonly ask non-EU drivers for an International Driver's License plus the home license at pickup.
Can I get an IDP once I have already arrived in Denmark?
Ideally you sort your IDL out before travelling, but if you are already in Denmark you can apply online through E-ITA and download the digital copy right away. Keep it with your national license so you are ready for a rental pickup or a police check.
How do I apply for an IDP for Denmark and how fast is it?
You apply online through E-ITA: submit the application, upload a passport-style photo and a copy of your license, and receive your digital IDL — typically in minutes. The digital permit covers you to drive in Denmark, and a printed copy can be mailed to you as well.
Who can apply for an IDP to drive in Denmark?
Anyone holding a valid national driver's license can apply. The IDL only translates that license into other languages — it involves no new driving test — so your existing license must be valid, and you should meet Denmark's minimum driving age of 17 years and 9 months.
What travelers say
Reviews from verified E-ITA customers.
“The rental agent asked for an IDP with my license. I showed the digital copy from my phone and picked up the car with no issues.”
“The digital version arrived fast and worked at the rental counter. The printed booklet took five days to arrive, which was fine for my trip.”
“Applied from the airport with urgent processing and had the PDF before boarding. Exactly what I needed for my road trip.”
Ready to drive in Denmark?
Apply in about 2 minutes — digital delivery in 8, printed booklet shipped worldwide.
