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Can you drive in Denmark with an Indian driving licence?

Short visits versus moving to Denmark.

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Short answer

On a temporary stay you can drive on an Indian licence if it is written in Latin letters or comes with an official translation into Danish, English or French, or together with an international licence. If you take up ordinary residence in Denmark, you can drive on it for up to 180 days and then must exchange it. India is not a group 1 or group 2 country, so the exchange requires a controlling driving test with a theory and a practical part. You also need a medical certificate, and as of November 2026 the exchange fee is 520 kr.

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Why

  1. Visits are fine with Latin letters or a translation.
  2. Residents have 180 days before the exchange.
  3. India is not on the no-test lists.

Details

For the practical part of the controlling test you must bring a car approved for driving lessons, which you can rent through a driving instructor.

Tip

Lessons are not required before the controlling test, but a few lessons with a Danish driving instructor help you learn local rules and test routines.

What may differ

India can be added to the no-test lists only if India itself applies and is approved.

Common misconception

An Indian licence can be swapped for a Danish one at the town hall without any test.

What actually happens

Exchanging an Indian licence requires a controlling driving test with theory and practice.

People also ask

  • What is a controlling driving test in Denmark?
  • Do you need an International Driving Permit in Denmark?
  • How long can you drive on a foreign licence after moving to 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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