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Can you drive a car at 17 in Denmark?

The rules for young drivers and their companions.

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Short answer

Yes. You can start lessons in the car at 16 years and 9 months and get your licence on your 17th birthday at the earliest, after passing the theory and practical tests. Until you turn 18 you may drive alone between 05.00 and 20.00, but between 20.00 and 05.00 you must have a companion, and you may only drive in Denmark. The companion must be at least 24, have held a valid Danish or Faroese licence for at least 5 years, not have been disqualified in the last 5 years and sit in the front seat. A foreign licence does not qualify a companion.

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Why

  1. The licence comes at 17 at the earliest.
  2. Night driving needs a companion until 18.
  3. Driving abroad is only allowed from 18.

Details

The licence of a 17-year-old carries code 141, which shows the companion rule between 20.00 and 05.00.

Tip

Fill in and sign a companion form with each companion before you drive, and keep it in the car.

What may differ

If you started lessons on or after 1 July 2026 the minimum is 24 driving lessons, while earlier starters need at least 29.

Common misconception

A 17-year-old always needs an adult in the car.

What actually happens

A 17-year-old may drive alone between 05.00 and 20.00 and only needs a companion at night.

People also ask

  • Who can be a companion for a 17-year-old driver in Denmark?
  • Can a 17-year-old drive abroad with a Danish licence?
  • How much does a driving test cost in Denmark?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Traffic rules, fines and fees can change, so check the Danish authorities before you drive.

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