Add organization

18+ topic. What happens to a foreign driver caught drink driving in Denmark?

Same rules, and the car can be held.

Answered at: Checked at:

Short answer

18+ topic. The same 0.5 per mille limit and the same penalties apply to everyone who drives in Denmark, foreign drivers included. If both driver and car are resident abroad, the police can hold the car until fines, costs or compensation are paid or secured, and rented or leased cars can also be held. A person who does not live in Denmark can be remanded in custody if there is a risk of leaving the country. The charge must be served in a language you understand.

Car rental and parking

Why

  1. Same limits and penalties as for Danes.
  2. The car can be held until the fine is paid.
  3. Custody is possible if you may leave Denmark.

Details

Danish traffic fines are covered by the EU rules on mutual recognition of fines, so they can follow you home.

Tip

If you have hired a car, a drink-driving case can leave you without the car during your trip, so do not drink at all if you drive.

What may differ

Some rules differ for people living in other Nordic countries, and expulsion can be considered in some cases.

Common misconception

Tourists just get a fine and drive on.

What actually happens

A foreign driver can lose the car for the time being and face the same penalties as a Dane.

People also ask

  • What happens if a foreign driver gets a traffic fine in Denmark?
  • What is the drink-drive limit for car drivers in Denmark?
  • How is the drink-driving fine calculated in Denmark?

Sources

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

Car rental and parking
Help