Cars & Transportation Denmark

Trains

Intercity Trains: The state company DSB operates a network of intercity trains connecting major cities and regions of the country. The trains are known for their high speed and comfort, providing fast connections between different parts of Denmark.

Suburban Trains: In Copenhagen and surrounding areas, the S-tog commuter train system connects the city center with suburbs and nearby towns. Trains run with high frequency, especially during peak hours.

Metro

Copenhagen Metro: The capital of Denmark is equipped with a modern metro system consisting of four lines: M1, M2, M3 (City Circle Line), and M4. The metro operates 24/7, providing quick and convenient transportation throughout the city. The system is fully automated and driverless.

Buses

City Buses: In all cities of Denmark, there is an extensive network of bus routes covering both central areas and distant neighborhoods. Buses run on a schedule with high frequency, particularly in large cities.

Intercity Buses: There are also intercity bus routes connecting various cities and regions of the country. They are an alternative to rail transport and often offer more economical travel options.

Trams

Aarhus Tram: The city of Aarhus has a light rail system known as Letbanen. It connects the city center with suburbs, providing an environmentally friendly way to travel.

Ferries

Domestic Routes: Being a country with many islands, Denmark has a well-developed ferry system connecting different parts of the country. Ferries provide transport for both passengers and vehicles.

International Routes: There are also ferry lines connecting Denmark with neighboring countries such as Sweden, Norway, and Germany.

Air Travel

Domestic Flights

Main Directions: Domestic flights connect key cities in the country, such as Copenhagen, Aarhus, Aalborg, and Bornholm. Flights between Copenhagen and Aalborg in the north of the country, as well as flights to the island of Bornholm, where ground transport is limited, are particularly in demand.

Frequency of Flights: Domestic flights operate with high frequency, especially between Copenhagen and other major cities, making air travel a convenient and fast way to move around the country. Flights are generally short, lasting from 35 to 60 minutes.

International Flights

International Airports: Denmark’s largest international airport is Copenhagen Airport Kastrup, one of the busiest and most modern in Scandinavia. International flights are also operated from Billund and Aalborg airports.

Destinations and Frequency of Flights: From Denmark, direct flights are available to most major cities in Europe, including London, Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam, and others. In addition, there are regular flights to North America, Asia, and the Middle East.

Thus, due to the diversity and integration of various types of transport, getting around Denmark is convenient and efficient for both residents and immigrants.

The Rejsekort is an electronic card used for paying for travel on all types of public transport: buses, trains, the metro, and ferries.

Advantages:

  Automatic calculation of trip cost based on distance and time of day.

  Ability to top up the balance online, at kiosks, or via a mobile application.

  Discounts for frequent passengers.

 

How to Obtain: Order online on the official website (https://www.rejsekort.dk/); purchase at ticket offices at major stations or in some stores.

Usage: When entering a vehicle or station, touch the card to the reader to register the start of the trip (check-in). Repeat the procedure upon exit to complete the trip (check-out).

 

Mobile Applications

DSB App: The official app of the state railway company.

DOT Tickets App: An application for purchasing tickets on buses, the metro, and trains in the capital region.

  

Ticket Machines

Location: Ticket vending machines are installed at metro stations, railway stations, and major bus stops.

Payment: Bank cards; cash (in some machines).

 

Purchase from the Driver

Buses: In most buses, you can buy a ticket directly from the driver. Tickets purchased from the driver may be slightly more expensive.

Payment: cash (preferably with the exact amount, as change may be limited); bank cards (in some buses).

 

Subscriptions and Travel Cards

City Pass: A travel ticket valid in certain zones and for a certain period (24, 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours).

Benefits: Unlimited trips in the selected zones.

 

Pendlerkort: A subscription for regular passengers valid on a certain route or in zones.

 

Zone and Fare Features

Zones: Denmark is divided into transport zones, and ticket prices depend on the number of zones crossed.

 

Single Tickets: valid for a specific time and for a specific number of zones.

Discounts: children, students, and pensioners may be eligible for reduced fares.

Taxis

Availability: Taxis can be ordered by phone, via mobile apps, or found at designated stands in cities. Free cars are marked with the sign "Fri" ("free"). 

 

Cost: Taking a taxi in Denmark is considered quite expensive. For example, a trip from the airport to the city center can cost from 250 to 350 Danish kroner (approximately 27-38 euros). 

 

Apps: Popular taxi services include Dantaxi and Taxa 4x35, both of which have their own mobile booking apps. In some cities, the Bolt service is also available. 

 

Car-sharing

Services: In major cities, car-sharing services allow you to rent a car for a short period through mobile apps.

 

Advantages: Car-sharing provides flexibility in transportation without the need to own a car, which is especially convenient given the high taxes on car ownership in Denmark.

 

Among the most popular operators are:

 

GreenMobility: offers electric cars for rent, providing an environmentally friendly way to travel around the city. The service is available in Copenhagen and Aarhus, as well as other European cities.

Features: pay-per-minute; booking via a mobile app; free parking in service zones.

 

SHARE NOW: an international car-sharing service formed from the merger of Car2Go and DriveNow. The service operates in Copenhagen, offering a wide range of cars including BMW and MINI models.

Features: per-minute, hourly, and daily rentals; booking and rental management via a mobile app; the ability to complete rentals within the service area.

 

LetsGo: a Danish car-sharing service with over 20 years of experience. The service is available in Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense, and other Danish cities.

Features: a variety of cars, including electric vehicles, vans, and family cars; bookings available by the hour, day, or week; fixed parking spots for cars.

 

GoMore: a platform that combines car-sharing, peer-to-peer vehicle rental, and carpooling. The service operates across Denmark, allowing users to rent cars from other individuals or offer their own cars for rent.

Features: flexible rental terms; a wide selection of vehicles; the option for carpooling to reduce costs.

 

TADAA!: specializes in renting Tesla electric vehicles. The service is available in Copenhagen and its surroundings.

Features: a premium electric vehicle rental; pay-per-minute and hourly billing; booking via a mobile app.

 

Rental of Scooters and Bicycles

 

Bicycles: Denmark is known for its developed cycling infrastructure. Tourists can rent bicycles in hotels or at designated rental points. Many cities are connected by bike paths, allowing for comfortable cycling travel.

 

Scooters: In major cities, electric scooter rental services are available, which can be found and rented via mobile apps. These services operate on a kick-sharing basis, providing short-term scooter rentals for city travel.

 

Usage Features

 

Traffic Rules: When using car sharing, scooters, and bicycles, it is necessary to comply with local traffic rules. For example, in Denmark, there are strict rules for cyclists, including mandatory use of lights at night and adherence to traffic signs.

 

Parking: It is important to leave rented scooters and bicycles in designated areas to avoid creating obstacles for pedestrians and other road users.

Living in Denmark without a personal car is not only possible but quite common. Thanks to a developed public transport system and cycling infrastructure, most residents, especially in cities, manage without personal cars.

 

In rural areas, public transport may be less accessible. However, even in small towns, there is usually a bus service to the nearest cities.

Planning trips may require more time, but locals often carpool or use car sharing.

Driver's License Exchange

 

EU/EEA Citizens: If you have a valid driving license issued in an EU or EEA country, you can use it in Denmark without exchange. However, if you plan to reside in Denmark for more than 185 days a year, it is recommended to exchange it for a Danish license.

 

Exchange Procedure:

  - Fill out an application at the local municipality.

  - Provide a valid driver's license.

  - Provide a medical certificate from a Danish doctor.

  - Pay the administrative fee.

 

Non-EU/EEA Citizens

Exchange without Exam: Denmark has agreements with some countries, allowing driver's license exchanges without exams. These countries include, for example, the USA, Canada, Australia, and Japan.

Exchange with Exam: If your driver's license is issued in a country that is not in the EU/EEA and does not have an agreement with Denmark, you will need to pass theoretical and practical exams.

 

Obtaining a New Driving License: If you do not have a driving license or cannot exchange an existing one, you must go through the standard procedure for obtaining a driver's license in Denmark:

 

- Enroll in a driving school.

- Theoretical training.

- Practical training.

- First aid course.

- Medical certificate.

- Theoretical exam: conducted in Danish; in some cases, it is possible to take it in English.

- Practical exam.

- License issuance: After successfully passing all exams, you will receive a temporary driver's license, and the permanent one will be mailed to you within a few weeks.

 

Notes

Language of Training: Training and exams are usually conducted in Danish. However, some driving schools offer training and exams in English.

Timelines: The process of obtaining a driver's license can take from several months to a year, depending on your progress and the exam schedule.

Cost: The total cost of training, exams, and administrative fees may vary but usually ranges from 10,000 to 15,000 Danish kroner.

Taxes and Fees

Registration Tax: Denmark is known for having one of the highest car registration taxes in the world. The tax can be up to 150% of the car's price, depending on its price, fuel type, and CO2 emission level.

Annual Ownership Tax: This tax depends on the type of fuel and the environmental friendliness of the car. The lower the CO2 emissions, the lower the tax.

Insurance: Third-party liability insurance is mandatory. Comprehensive insurance is recommended but not required.

 

Traffic Rules

Speed Limits:

  - In populated areas: 50 km/h

  - Outside populated areas: 80 km/h

  - On highways: 110-130 km/h

Driving under the influence: The permissible blood alcohol content is 0.5‰.

Headlight Usage: Low beam headlights must be on at all times.

Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.

Mobile Devices: The use of mobile phones while driving without a "hands-free" system is prohibited.

 

Parking

- Paid Zones: Cities have paid parking zones with various rates.

- Parking Disks: In some areas, a parking disk is required to indicate the arrival time.

 

Environmental Zones

Low Emission Zones: Major cities have zones with restrictions for high-emission vehicles. An appropriate environmental sticker is required.

Electric Vehicles: The use of electric and hybrid vehicles is encouraged through tax incentives and special parking spaces.

 

Road Conditions

Road Quality: Roads in Denmark are generally in excellent condition and well-lit.

Winter Conditions: Winter tires are not mandatory but recommended during the cold season.

 

Toll Roads: Denmark does not have traditional toll roads, but some bridges and tunnels require a toll. Here are the main toll facilities:

 

Great Belt Bridge: This bridge connects the islands of Zealand and Funen, forming a key part of the route between the eastern and western parts of Denmark.

Cost: For passenger cars, the fee is approximately 240 DKK one way. Payment can be made in cash, by credit card, or using the BroBizz electronic device for automatic payment.

 

Øresund Bridge: This bridge connects Copenhagen (Denmark) and Malmö (Sweden) across the Øresund Strait.

Cost: The toll for a passenger car is around 410 DKK one way. Cash, credit cards, and BroBizz are accepted. Subscription passes with discounts for frequent travel are available.

 

Ferry Crossings: Ferries are used to travel between some islands, and a fee is charged. The price depends on the route and type of vehicle. Usually, cash and credit cards are accepted.

 

BroBizz Automatic Payment System: An electronic device installed in a vehicle that automatically deducts the toll for bridges and some ferries.

Advantages: Speeds up the payment process, sometimes provides discounts, and can be used in other Scandinavian countries.

How to Obtain: The device can be ordered online or purchased at specific sales points.

 

Features for Foreign Drivers

Payment Methods: Foreign drivers can pay tolls using international credit cards.

Vignettes and Fees: There is no need to purchase vignettes or pay road fees for using roads in Denmark, except for the mentioned toll facilities.

Important to Know: Late payment or attempting to pass without payment may lead to fines and additional charges.

 

Owning and driving a car in Denmark involves high costs and strict regulations. However, by understanding these features and complying with local laws, you can comfortably use personal transportation.

Strict adherence to traffic rules is a priority in Denmark, and significant fines and penalties are imposed for violations. Below are the main types of violations and their corresponding penalties.

 

Speeding

In populated areas: Fines start at 500 DKK (about 67 euros) for exceeding the speed limit by less than 20% and can reach 4,500 DKK (about 603 euros) for exceeding by more than 100%.

On highways: Fines range from 500 DKK for exceeding by less than 20% to 7,000 DKK (about 938 euros) for exceeding by more than 100%.

 

Note: If the speed exceeds more than 70%, the driver must retake the driving test.

 

Driving Under the Influence

Permissible alcohol level: The maximum permissible blood alcohol level is 0.5 per mille.

Fines: If the blood alcohol level is between 0.51 and 2.0 per mille, the fine is calculated as a monthly salary multiplied by the per mille level. For example, with a level of 0.7 per mille and a monthly income of 2,000 euros, the fine would be 1,400 euros.

License Revocation: If the alcohol level exceeds 2.0‰, the driver may be deprived of the right to operate a vehicle for a period of 6 months to 1 year.

 

Use of Mobile Phone While Driving

Fine: Using a mobile phone without a "hands-free" system while driving is prohibited and punishable by a fine of 1,500 kroner (approximately 201 euros).

 

Unfastened Seat Belts

Fine: An unfastened seat belt by the driver or passenger results in a fine of 1,500 kroner (approximately 201 euros).

 

Running a Red Light

Fine: Running a red light is punishable by a fine of 2,000 kroner (approximately 268 euros).

 

Parking Violations

Fine: Incorrect parking can lead to a fine of 1,000 kroner (approximately 134 euros). In some cases, the vehicle may be towed at the owner's expense.

 

Other Violations

Failure to Use Headlights: In Denmark, headlights must be turned on at all times of the day. Violation of this rule results in a fine of 1,000 kroner (approximately 134 euros).

Violation of Overtaking Rules: The fine is 2,000 kroner (approximately 268 euros)

Failure to Yield to Pedestrians: A fine of 2,000 kroner (approximately 268 euros).

 

Payment of traffic fines in Denmark is carried out as follows:

 

Receiving a Fine Notification: After the offense is recorded, you will receive a notification indicating the amount of the fine, payment details, and deadlines. Notifications of traffic fines are sent as follows:

For Danish Residents

Postal Notification: After the offense is recorded, such as by a surveillance camera, a fine notification is sent by mail to the registered address of the vehicle owner.

For Foreign Nationals and Tourists

Rental Cars: If the offense is committed in a rental car, the fine notification is typically sent to the rental company. The company, in turn, may charge the fine amount to the client's credit card or reach out for payment settlement.

Own Car with Foreign Plates: In the event of an offense in a personal car with foreign registration, Danish authorities may use international agreements to identify the owner and send a fine notification by mail to their home address.

 

 

Payment Methods

 Bank Transfer: Use the bank details provided in the notification to transfer the fine amount.

  Online Payment: Many municipalities offer the option to pay fines through their official websites.

  Bank Payment: You can pay the fine in cash or by card at any Danish bank, providing the necessary details.

 

Payment Deadlines: Adhere to the payment deadlines specified in the notification to avoid additional fines or legal proceedings.

Payment Confirmation: Keep the receipt or proof of payment in case of possible questions or disputes.

 

If you are outside Denmark, it is advisable to contact the relevant Danish authorities to clarify payment details from abroad.

In Denmark, the vehicle registration and inspection process is regulated by government authorities and involves several key stages.

 

Vehicle Registration

Purchasing a New Car

Dealer Registration: When buying a new car through an official dealer, the dealer usually handles all administrative formalities, including vehicle registration and payment of the relevant taxes.

Necessary Documents: For registration, you will need your personal information, such as name, address, phone number, and personal identification number.

 

Purchasing a Used Car

Buying from a Dealer: Used car dealers can also assist with the paperwork when transferring ownership.

Buying from a Private Individual: When purchasing a car from a private seller, you are responsible for handling the transfer of ownership and registration yourself.

 

Registration Procedure:

Central Vehicle Register: In Denmark, vehicle registration is carried out through the Central Vehicle Register, which is under the jurisdiction of customs and tax administration.

Insurance: Before registration, the vehicle must be insured.

Registration Tax: When registering a new vehicle, a registration tax is paid, which constitutes a significant part of the car's cost.

License Plates: After paying the tax and completing registration, license plates are issued.

 

Technical Inspection

 

Frequency

New Cars: The first inspection is conducted four years after the initial registration.

Subsequent Inspections: After the first inspection, subsequent inspections are conducted every two years.

 

Technical Inspection Procedure

 

Booking an Inspection: You can book an inspection through online services or by phone. In Denmark, booking a vehicle technical inspection is done through several online services. The primary agency responsible for conducting technical inspections is the Danish Road Traffic Agency.

 

Færdselsstyrelsen (https://www.fstyr.dk/): The official state body responsible for road traffic safety and vehicle technical inspections.

 

Applus Bilsyn (https://www.applusbilsyn.dk/): A large private company accredited to conduct inspections throughout Denmark.

 

PAVA Bilsyn (https://www.pava.dk/bilsyn/): A company specializing in anti-corrosion treatment and vehicle technical inspections.

 

DEKRA Bilsyn (https://www.dekra.dk/bilsyn/): An international company providing technical inspection and vehicle certification services.

 

QuickPot Bilsyn (https://www.quickpot.dk/bilsyn/): A network of auto service centers offering maintenance and vehicle inspection services.

 

Conducting the Inspection: During the inspection, the main systems of the car are checked, including brakes, lighting, exhaust system, and the general condition of the vehicle.

Results: If the car does not pass the inspection, the owner is given time to fix the identified issues and retake the inspection.

 

International Technical Inspection Certificate: For vehicles leaving Denmark, an international technical inspection certificate may be required, confirming the vehicle's compliance with international safety standards.

Temporary Stay with a Foreign Car

 

Short-term Stay: If you plan to stay in Denmark for less than 185 days within a 12-month period, you can use a car with foreign license plates without having to pay the Danish registration tax. In this case, you are required to pay taxes in your country of permanent residence. 

Documents: It is recommended to have documents proving ownership of the car, valid insurance, and a driver's license with you.

 

Permanent Residence and Car Registration

 

Moving to Denmark: If you are moving to Denmark for permanent residence and bringing a car with foreign license plates, you must register it in Denmark no later than 30 days after moving. 

 

Registration Procedure

Technical Inspection: The car must undergo a technical inspection at an accredited station.

Payment of Registration Tax: Denmark has a high registration tax on cars, which can range from 105% to 180% of the vehicle's cost. 

Insurance: Mandatory third-party liability insurance must be obtained.

 Registration: After completing the above steps, the car is registered with the Danish Vehicle Agency, and Danish license plates are issued to you.

 

Exceptions: In some cases, such as temporary stay in Denmark for work or study, you can get permission to use a car with foreign license plates without registration. To do so, you need to contact the Danish Vehicle Agency and provide the relevant documents.

 

Important Notes

Fines: Violating rules on the registration and use of foreign vehicles may result in significant fines and confiscation of the vehicle.

 

It is recommended to familiarize yourself with the current requirements in advance and, if necessary, consult with local authorities or legal specialists to ensure compliance with all rules and avoid potential sanctions.

 Denmark is actively developing infrastructure for electric vehicles, aiming for environmentally friendly transport and reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

Charging Stations

Quantity and coverage: As of 2021, there were about 4,850 public charging stations in Denmark. Since then, their number continues to grow, providing coverage both in urban and rural areas.

Main operators

 Clever: One of the largest operators of charging stations in Denmark, offering both regular and fast charging devices.

 E.ON Drive: Provides access to a wide network of charging stations throughout the country.

Types of charging stations

 Regular (AC) chargers: Suitable for charging an electric vehicle over several hours, often used in long-term parking locations.

 Fast (DC) chargers: Allow charging of a vehicle in a short time, typically located along highways and in high-traffic areas.

 

Service Centers

Maintenance and repair: With the growing popularity of electric vehicles, the number of specialized service centers offering maintenance and repair is increasing. Many official dealers, such as Tesla, Nissan, and Volkswagen, have their own service centers in major cities.

Government support

Incentives: The Danish government provides various incentives for electric vehicle owners, including tax benefits and subsidies for the installation of home charging stations.

Thus, Denmark offers a developed and continuously improving infrastructure for electric vehicles, making their use convenient and accessible for residents and visitors of the country.