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What happens if your phone dies with your ticket on it in Denmark?

A flat battery counts as no ticket

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Short answer

If your ticket is on your phone and the phone has run out of battery or is broken, the ticket cannot be checked, and you can get a kontrolafgift. This follows from the common nationwide travel rules valid from 30 June 2026. In 2026 the kontrolafgift for an adult is 750 kr. on DSB trains and the metro and 1,000 kr. on Movia buses. It is your own responsibility to keep the phone working for the whole trip.

Public transport

Why

  1. The inspector must be able to see the ticket.
  2. A cracked screen can also stop the check.
  3. The fine is the same as for no ticket.

Details

A personal commuter card that you cannot show can have the fine reduced to 125 kr., if you send a copy within 14 days.

Tip

Charge your phone before a long day out, and carry a small power bank if you rely on mobile tickets.

What may differ

Fine amounts can change with one month of notice, so check the current rules.

Common misconception

Many think a dead phone is a valid excuse if you can show the receipt later.

What actually happens

The ticket must be shown at the inspection; a flat battery or broken phone can still give a kontrolafgift.

People also ask

  • Is a screenshot of a mobile ticket valid?
  • What is the fine for riding without a ticket?
  • How do you complain about a public transport fine?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Timetables, routes and fares change, so check the operator before you travel.

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