How long can you drive on a foreign licence after moving to Denmark?
The 180-day rule and what counts as living here.
Short answer
If your licence is from a country outside the EU and EEA, you can drive on it for up to 180 days after you take up ordinary residence in Denmark, and then it must be exchanged for a Danish licence. Ordinary residence means you live here with the aim of staying in Denmark for at least 185 days a year. An EU, EEA or Faroese licence never has to be exchanged and is valid for the period printed on it. A Greenlandic licence can be used for 180 days, after which you exchange it or take 2 lessons of at least 45 minutes with an approved Danish driving instructor.
Why
- The clock starts when you take up ordinary residence.
- EU and EEA licences stay valid without exchange.
- Other licences must be exchanged after 180 days.
Details
The municipality decides whether you have ordinary residence and looks at where your permanent home, belongings and closest family are.
Tip
Start the exchange well before day 180, because you may need a medical certificate and in many cases a controlling driving test.
What may differ
People who are here only for a time-limited job or study without personal ties to Denmark normally do not have ordinary residence.
Common misconception
A foreign licence can be used in Denmark for one year after you move.
What actually happens
For licences from outside the EU and EEA the limit is 180 days from when you take up ordinary residence.
People also ask
- How do you exchange a foreign driving licence in Denmark?
- Which licences can be exchanged without a test in Denmark?
- Do you have to exchange an EU licence 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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