PRACTICAL KNOWLEDGE
Everything from driving licences and theory to how to become a driving instructor
PRACTICAL KNOWLEDGE
Everything from driving licences and theory to how to become a driving instructor
Useful links
The links below give a good insight into what you need to be aware of when getting your driver's licence.
About obtaining a driver's licence:
Safe traffic
About 17 year olds:
Driving licence at 17
ANT course:
Alcohol and drug traffic course
P23 - Application form:
Application form for driver's licence
Consent form
If you are 17 years old and want to get your licence, you will need to fill out a consent form to take to the driving school of your choice.
Download the declaration here:
Consent form for 17 year olds
(Updated on July 1, 2025)
Drive4you theory: Safe theory lessons in collaboration with the Danish Driving Instructor Union
A solid understanding of theory is essential for learning to drive a car or tractor safely and correctly. With Drive4you, you get access to thorough and reliable teaching material, developed in close collaboration with the Danish Driving Instructor Union. That's why it's a good idea to invest in good and thoroughly tested material, and with Drive4you you're sure to get it. Drive4you collaborates with Danish Driving Instructor Unionso you can be sure that you get access to quality material.
Practical knowledge
As of 1/1 2017, the course must be started 3 months before you turn 17 years old.
How long does it take to get a driver's licence?
It's individual, but for most 17-19 year olds it will take around 2-4 months.
Which driving school should I choose?
You should choose a driving instructor/driving school that is a member of a local association affiliated with the Danish Driving Instructor Union.
A driving school that follows the given guidelines for teaching the category in question. See more here.
How does a theory test work?
Today, the theory test is a written test where you are shown 25 different images on a large screen or PC together with 10-14 other students. Each image is accompanied by some information about the image situation and 2-4 possible answers, where the student must check the yes box if the answer is in accordance with what they want to do, otherwise they must check the no box.
How many mistakes can I have in the theory test?
You can have a maximum of 5 mistakes in 5 pictures to pass the theory test for a normal car. In principle, the test should of course be error-free, but it is possible to pass with five mistakes because you may misunderstand a question or you may be disturbed by something during the test, as you are not alone in the room.
Is there a waiting time for a theory test?
There may be a waiting time to take a theory test, but it should not exceed 14 days.
When can I take the theory test?
The earliest you can take the theory test is 1 month before you turn 17
What does a theory test cost?
The test fee to the Danish Road Traffic Agency currently amounts to DKK 1,450.
The fee covers both the theoretical and practical driving test.
The fee for the practical test when extending to category A2 and A and B/E is DKK 460.
If you do not pass a test, theoretical or practical, a new fee must be paid.
Do I need a minimum number of driving lessons?
The syllabus prescribes a detailed teaching program divided into lessons of min. 45 minutes
Cat. A (motorcycle):
The training for category A (MC) includes a total of at least 29 lessons in the theory classroom (theoretical subjects) and at least 22 lessons of practical driving instruction (practice driving), divided into 4 lessons in a closed practice area, 13 lessons in maneuvers on the road and 5 lessons in maneuvers at a technical driving facility.
Cat. B (ordinary car):
The training for category B (ordinary car) includes a total of at least 29 lessons in the theory classroom (theoretical topics), and at least 4 lessons in a closed practice area (maneuvering track), 16 lessons in maneuvers on the road and 4 lessons in maneuvers in a driving facility. A total of at least 53 lessons.
Cat. C or D:
The training for category C or D includes a total of at least 16 lessons in the theory classroom (theoretical subjects), and at least 18 lessons of practical driving instruction (practice driving) divided into 2 lessons of initial road exercises, 12 lessons of extended road exercises and 4 lessons of maneuvers on the driving facility.
Cat. C/E:
The training for category C/E includes a total of at least 13 lessons in the theory classroom (theoretical subjects) and at least 18 lessons of practical driving instruction (practice driving) divided into 2 lessons of initial road exercises, 12 lessons of extended road exercises and 4 lessons of maneuvers on the technical driving facility.
Cat. D/E:
The training for category D/E includes a total of at least 10 lessons in the theory classroom (theoretical subjects) and at least 6 lessons of practical driving instruction (practice driving), divided into 1 lesson of initial on-road exercises and 5 lessons of extended on-road exercises.
The training course for driver training for categories A, B must last at least 14 training days, C, D at least 12 days, C/E at least 10 days, for cat. D/E at least 7 days and B/E at least 3 days
Which car should I drive for the driving test?
The practical driving test is usually taken in the school car, the car you have practiced in and know.
Where does the practical driving test take place?
The practical driving test usually takes place in the city or area where you have had driving lessons. The exact route is not known in advance.
How does the practical driving test work?
The practical driving test usually lasts 30-45 minutes, during which a driving examiner takes the driving instructor's place and observes the learner's ability to drive the car safely through traffic.
The purpose of the driving test is for the examiner to assess whether the trainee has acquired the knowledge, skills and behavior that are set as objectives for the driving training and which are a condition for obtaining a driving license.
The test begins with a check of the candidate's identity (remember passport or birth certificate), and usually an examination of the vehicle equipment.
When can I take the practical driving test?
The practical driving test can be taken on the student's 17th birthday at the earliest
What is a controlled driving test?
A controlled driving test is a standard theoretical and practical driving test similar to the one taken by people who have not previously held a driving licence.
Driving licence categories
Category A.
- A1
- A2
- A
Category B. - Ordinary car
Category Bep - Taxi
Category C1 - Small truck
Category C. - Truck
Category D1 - Small bus
Category D. - Bus with more than 8 seats in addition to the driver
Category Dep - Coach/tourist service
Category E
- Category B/E. Category B with large trailer
- category C1/E category C1 with large trailer
- Category C/E. Category C with a large trailer
- Category D1/E. Category D1 with a large trailer
- Category D/E. Category D with large trailer
Can I drive a trailer?
A driving licence for category B, ordinary car, entitles you to drive:
Passenger car with a maximum of 8 seats in addition to the driver's seat and a maximum permissible weight not exceeding 3,500 kg.
Van with a maximum permissible weight not exceeding 3,500 kg.
Vehicle combination consisting of a passenger car or van and a trailer with a maximum permissible weight not exceeding 750 kg.
A combination consisting of a car or van and a trailer with a maximum permissible weight of more than 750 kg. The total permitted total weight of the combination must not exceed 3,500 kg.
Three-wheeled motorcycle.
Tractor/motorized implement.
Moped subject to registration.
For trailers not subject to registration, the permitted total weight of the trailer is determined in accordance with points 3 and 4 above, using the trailer's actual total weight.
Does my licence need to be renewed?
Driving licences for categories A, B and B/E and for tractors/motor vehicles are issued until the holder reaches the age of 75. From 19/1 2013, however, only valid for 15 years
Driving licences for categories C, C/E, D and D/E are issued with a validity of 5 years.
Driving licences for commercial passenger transport are issued with a validity period of five years.
Can I drive a 45 moped?
You need a category A or B licence to drive a large moped (45 moped).
To find a driving school or driving instructor in your area, use Google.com and search for "driving school + your zip code" or the zip code of the city you want to get your licence in.
How do I get my licence back?
If your licence has been unconditionally or conditionally suspended, it must be reacquired before a new one can be issued.
You must take a new driving test, i.e. take and pass both a theory and practical test. The same applies to driving bans. In the event of a driving ban, training is mandatory.
You go to a driving school and usually receive both theoretical and practical instruction before taking a new driving test. However, in the case of an unconditional disqualification, driving lessons may begin no earlier than 3 months before the expiry of the disqualification period. There is no obligation to take lessons in connection with reinstatement.
Do I need to take a technical driving course?
Yes, if you are obtaining your driving licence for the first time, a course at a technical driving facility is mandatory.
After the initial exercises in the closed practice area (the playground), the practical exercises continue on ordinary streets and roads, and must be completed with a driving skills course at an approved driving school. Time consumption approx. 4 ½ hours.
How do I get a commercial card (taxi card)?
A commercial passenger transport licence can be issued to a person over the age of 21.
Commercial passenger transport licences can only be issued to drivers who have a category B driving licence and have passed a commercial passenger transport driving test. Commercial passenger transport licences can only be issued for the category in which the driving test was taken.
A driving licence for commercial passenger transport may be refused under the condition mentioned in section 78(2) of the Danish Criminal Code.
What is a control test?
A control driving test is a standard theoretical and practical driving test similar to the one taken by people who have not previously held a driving licence.
Can my foreign driving licence be exchanged in Denmark?
Foreign driving licences can be exchanged in Denmark if they have been obtained in a country where the educational requirements are roughly equivalent to the Danish requirements. If there is any doubt about this, the authorities may require the person to take and pass a control test first. Read more here.
Do I have to go on a maneuvering track (playpen)?
When obtaining a driving licence for the first time, the theoretical and practical training must be integrated, which means that immediately after a theory lesson, the same topics must be covered in a practical driving lesson.
The practical training must start at an approved closed practice area where the student is alone in the car and completes a series of specified exercises. The time spent at the closed practice area will normally be from 3 to 5 hours.
Applications for a driving licence must be submitted to one of the municipality's citizen service centers, which is responsible for the practical processing of the case.
A special application form must be used.
Along with your application, you must submit a clear photograph and a medical certificate issued by your own doctor as well as a first aid certificate. If you do not have a credit card-type driver's licence or a valid passport, you must instead bring a health card, your original baptism, name or birth certificate and photo ID. You can contact us for more info or read up on driving licence rules.
Further information about applying for a driving licence and driving licence rules can be obtained at the municipality's citizen service center.
Often, the driving instructor will do the practical work of applying for a licence for a small fee.
General driving licence rules and conditions for obtaining a driving licence
It is a prerequisite in the driving licence rules to be issued a driving licence that you have so-called habitual residence in Denmark (at least 185 days). Habitual residence means the place where you stay as a result of your personal or professional circumstances.
It is also a condition that you have a residence permit (proof of residence) in this country, unless you can stay in Denmark without permission.
Finally, you must be in satisfactory health. Health requirements include vision, hearing, physical and mental disabilities, heart and kidney disease, diabetes and epilepsy. The police decide on matters such as health issues (except for visual acuity) and special character requirements.
Driving licence rules for Driving licence categories
You are only allowed to drive the type of vehicle for which you have obtained a licence. Motor vehicles are divided into categories and vehicle types, each with its own letter. This is the letter that will appear on your licence and indicates which vehicles you are allowed to drive. You can get a licence for the following categories:
Motorcycle - category A
Motorcycles are divided into categories A1, A2 and A
Category A1
must not exceed 125 cc and have an engine power of 11 kW. At the same time, the figure obtained by dividing the motorcycle's engine power by the kerb weight must not exceed 0.10 (kW/kg).
If you obtained your motorcycle licence on or after 1 July 1996, you are entitled to drive a motorcycle with or without a sidecar. The age requirement is 18 years. After 2 years of experience and passing a practical test, you can obtain a category A2 licence.
Category A2
must have a maximum engine power of 35 kW and an engine power to kerb weight ratio of no more than 0.2 kW/kg. The age requirement is 20 years.
Category A
Two-wheeled motorcycle with or without sidecar
Three-wheeled motorcycle with an engine power exceeding 15 kW or a three-wheeled car with an engine power exceeding 15 kW.
The aforementioned vehicles coupled to one trailer or one trailer implement.
Ordinary car - category B
The age requirement is 17 years to be issued a driver's licence for a car. However, until the age of 18, special conditions apply. See more here: https://www.sikkertrafik.dk/raad-og-viden/i-bil/koerekort-til-17-aarige
- Passenger car with a maximum of 8 seats in addition to the driver's seat and a total permissible weight not exceeding 3,500 kg.
- Van with a maximum permissible total weight not exceeding 3,500 kg.
- Passenger car or van with attached trailer with a maximum permissible weight not exceeding 750 kg.
- Passenger car or van with attached trailer with a maximum permissible weight of more than 750 kg if the total permissible weight of the combination does not exceed 3,500 kg.
- Three-wheeled motorcycle (cabin scooter).
- Tractor/motorized implement.
- Category AM (moped)
Trucks - category C
Vehicles that have a total weight exceeding 3,500 kg. To get a truck licence, you must first have a regular car licence.
The age requirement is 21 years old to be issued a truck driver's licence, or 18 years old under special conditions.
Bus - category D
Vehicles with more than eight seats in addition to the driver. To get a bus driver's licence, you must first have a regular car driver's licence.
The age requirement is 24 years to be issued a bus driver's licence, or 21 years under certain conditions.
Trailer - category B/E, C/E and D/E
Trailer for regular cars, trucks and buses weighing more than 750 kg. You can't get a car, truck or bus licence with a trailer until you have a car, truck or bus licence without a trailer. This means that if you want to drive a truck with a trailer, you must first obtain a truck licence.
Commercial driver's licence (taxi, coach, etc.)
To be issued a commercial driver's licence, you must be at least 21 years old, have a car driving licence and have passed a special driving test for commercial passenger transport.
Driving lessons are not required prior to the driving test. An interpreter cannot be used for a commercial passenger transport driving test.
Commercial driving licences can be issued for cars or buses and only for the category in which the driving test was taken.
Validity of driving licences
Motorcycle and car licences are issued with a validity of 15 years
Truck and bus licences are issued with validity until you turn 50 years old. After that, the licence can be renewed for 5 years at a time until you turn 75.
The period of validity is determined after the age of 75 based on your age. Driving licences can be issued for 4 years, 3 years, 2 years or finally for 1 year.
In special cases - particularly due to health conditions - a driving licence can be issued with a shorter validity than mentioned above.
Driving licence renewal rules
Renewal of a driving licence is done by contacting one of the municipality's citizen service centers. You must bring a recent photograph and a medical certificate issued by your own doctor. If you do not have a credit card-type driver's licence or a valid passport, you must bring your original baptism, name or birth certificate and photo ID instead.
International driving licence
If you need to drive a motor vehicle during an extended stay abroad, you can be issued an international driving licence. The international driving licence does not replace the regular driving licence, but it is a confirmation that you have the right to drive a car, etc. In reality, an international driving licence is simply a translation of your Danish driving licence.
Application forms are available at the municipality's citizen service centers. A photograph and proof of identity must be attached to the application, but a medical certificate is not required. The international driving licence is valid for one year and cannot be used in Denmark.
Driving licence on probation
The first years with a new licence are the most dangerous. This is when the risk of being involved in a traffic accident is greatest. That's why your licence is now "on probation" for the first three years. If you grossly violate traffic laws within the first three years of getting your licence, you will be banned from driving.
A driving ban means that you are not allowed to drive again until you have completed a new special driving course (both theory and practical) or an alcohol and traffic course and passed a new driving test.
Driver training ends with a driving test, which must be passed to obtain a licence for the desired category.
Purpose of the driving test
The purpose of the driving test is to assess whether you have acquired the knowledge, skills and behavior set as objectives for the driving training. The fulfillment of the various objectives is a condition for being issued a driving licence.
Driving test content/curriculum
The provisions for driver training and the driving test can be found in the curricula for driver training for category A (motorcycle), category B (car), category C (truck), category D (large passenger car) and category E (large trailer).
The syllabus provides a detailed description of the content and scope of the driver training program, including its purpose, main objectives and detailed sub-objectives. The sub-objectives are the actual guidelines for both the training and the assessment of the driving test, as they clarify in detail what you should know and be able to do at the end of the training.
The driving test usually consists of a theory test and a practical test.
Who conducts driving tests?
Driving tests are usually held by the police.
Persons called up for military service or for service in the rescue services can take the driving test with either defense or state rescue services driving examiners. However, this does not apply to tests for commercial passenger transport and the driving test.
When can the driving test be taken?
The theory test can be taken at the earliest 1 month before the age requirement is met. However, the theory test for tractor/motorized equipment can be taken 6 months before the age requirement is met.
You can only be registered for the practical test once you have passed the theory test and you cannot take the test until you meet the age requirement.
The theory test
The theory test consists of a series of pictures and some questions. You must then cross off the correct answers on a form or on a PC.
When you arrive for the test, your identity is checked and the conditions for taking the theory test are met, including that the necessary signatures on the application are present. The theory test is marked immediately after the test is over and you get the result immediately.
The theory test with foreign-language applicants is held on the basis of the current image series, with the questions translated by an interpreter who is also present in the test room. The police select the interpreter, who must not be a driving instructor. You must pay for the interpreter yourself.
If, due to exceptional circumstances - which must be documented - you are unable to take the normal written theory test, you can take a special test where, for example, the test expert reads out the questions or stops the tape recorder between each question. The image series and checkboxes are also used during the special test.
The practical test
The driving instructor or their representative may attend the practical test, unless you or the test examiner have significant objections to this. If you have used an interpreter for the theory test, an interpreter must also be used for the practical test.
The duration of the practical test depends on the category in which the test is taken. The driving time allocated to assessing your behavior in traffic must not be less than 25 minutes for the practical test for category A, category B and category B/E. For other categories, the driving time allocated to the behavioral assessment must not be less than 45 minutes. In addition to the driving time, time must be allocated for checking your identity, providing information about the course of the test, checking the vehicle's equipment, evaluating the test process, etc. and, if necessary, filling out a master card and issuing a provisional driving licence. If necessary, the test can be extended and may be interrupted if your driving skills are very poor.
At the start of the test, your identity is checked and that you meet the conditions for taking the practical test, including that the necessary signatures on the application are present. Before driving, you must, as far as possible, demonstrate your ability to check selected parts of the specific vehicle's statutory equipment (control test).
While driving, the examiner must give the necessary instructions on route, maneuvers, etc. The examiner must intervene while driving by using the vehicle controls if necessary for safety or to avoid collision.
The maneuvers practiced in a closed practice area and at a technical driving facility do not have to be performed separately during the test, but are part of the normal operation of the vehicle while driving. However, reversing, including reversing around corners, must be included on a random basis, but can only be required to be performed with some precision.
In the practical test, the examiner must first and foremost assess whether your performance is characterized by thorough learning in accordance with the curriculum.
The result of the test must be communicated immediately after the test is completed.
The practical issuing and renewal of driving licences takes place at one of the municipality's citizen service centers. The municipalities decide whether the conditions for issuing, renewing, etc. driving licences are met. It is also the municipality that schedules driving tests and collects payment for driving licences. The police conduct driving tests and decide on matters such as health issues (except for visual acuity) and special character requirements.
Choosing a driving instructor is a matter of trust. Make sure you get a good briefing on the content, organization and price of the training before you start taking the card, because in this context too, buying cheap can be expensive. Always ask for written student information. You can find the organized driving instructors here, all of which are affiliated with the public appeals board and guarantee fund.
Before you can sit your theory and driving test, as a learner, you'll need to take some preliminary tests at your driving school. This will familiarize you with the procedure for the final tests.
You must have completed an 8-hour road traffic first aid course to get your card. This only applies to the first time you acquire your card.
Before the theory test, you must have completed the entire training course except for the lessons at the technical driving facility
Applicants wishing to obtain a driving licence for a category for which no previous licence has been issued shall undergo mandatory driver training in accordance with the curriculum for driver training for that category.
Who can teach?
Only approved driving instructors are allowed to teach students who want a driving licence. The driving instructor approval will appear on the driving licence as a special endorsement. Driving training can be completed at private driving schools. In addition, driving instruction is available at AMU centers, and for military or emergency services personnel, from the military or the state emergency services, respectively.
Purpose of the instruction
The driving instructor must follow the syllabus for the chosen category in their driving instruction. The syllabus defines the knowledge, skills and behaviors that the applicant must possess in order to obtain a driving licence
The purpose of the driver training is:
- to give you insight into and understanding of the hazards and difficulties you encounter as drivers of vehicles on the road, as well as to give you knowledge of the traffic rules and other legal provisions,
that are important in this context.
- Provide you with knowledge of the vehicle and its operation so that you are able to identify any defects that may arise that affect safety.
- to provide you with an understanding of the basic human factors that influence driving skills so that you can fully utilize your abilities and, where necessary
counteract common human limitations.
- To provide you with the skills to critically assess traffic and drive the vehicle without danger to yourself and others.
- To help you become a considerate and responsible driver.
- Give you knowledge and understanding of the situation of vulnerable road users, especially in relation to motorized traffic.
It is therefore not enough to learn about the ideals and requirements of the Danish Road Traffic Act and how you should, must and may drive. Special attention must also be paid to the risks and hazards that arise on a daily basis despite the rules of the road.
You need to learn to quickly recognize and judge the different danger signs of other road users' behavior, vehicle handling characteristics, the road, weather and driving conditions. This will enable you to anticipate dangerous situations and react to them in time.
The training process
The learning objectives in the driver training curriculum are the actual guidelines for the training and clarify exactly what you need to know and be able to do after completing driver training.
The theoretical and practical training must be integrated and must follow the sectionalization of the curriculum. This means that you will be taken from easier to more difficult exercises and that the theoretical and practical training will be coordinated so that, as far as possible, you receive the theoretical training in a subject shortly before the practical training in the same subject.
Driving a car or motorcycle is a practical act. That's why driver training also focuses on practicing practical skills. Practical training begins with maneuvers in a closed practice area, continues with practice driving on the road and ends with maneuvers in a technical driving facility.
The content of the training
The training is composed of many different topics. Each topic is included to strengthen your skills in a specific direction. Here is an explanation of the actual goals of the different topics.
Vehicle layout, equipment and documents
Knowledge of the vehicle's layout and equipment and an understanding of its functions in order to learn how to handle the vehicle correctly and gently and to perform the various maneuvers safely. You must also be able to identify vehicle defects or faults that affect road safety. Finally, you must familiarize yourself with the most important documents related to the use of the vehicle.
Maneuvers in a closed practice area
Ability to control the car at low speeds while performing maneuvers that occur in normal traffic, i.e. starting, stopping, driving forwards and backwards, cornering, turning, turning, parking on the roadside and in a parking stall.
The maneuvers must be performed in an approved closed practice area.
Vehicle handling characteristics
Understand the handling characteristics of different vehicles and the different orientation conditions of drivers so that you learn to anticipate the difficulties that may arise in certain situations and thus judge the risk you expose yourself or others to by getting too close to another vehicle.
Traffic behavior
Knowledge of some basic psychological aspects of driving a car or motorcycle so that familiarity with your own perceptions and reactions is gained, thereby developing road-safe attitudes. Understanding the behavior of other road users to help you learn to anticipate their possible errors or thoughtlessness on the road and react appropriately to them in time.
Finally, you will need to familiarize yourself with the applicable legal regulations regarding the driving ability and health of drivers and the obligation to show special consideration for certain road users.
Road conditions
Knowledge of road hazards, such as weather and road conditions or the behavior of other road users, to help you learn to anticipate hazardous situations that can often occur at certain locations on a road or on certain stretches of road and react to them in time.
Basic rules for driving a car or motorcycle
Familiarization with some general legal regulations for driving a car immediately before going through the on-road driving exercises. You will also need to familiarize yourself with some terms in the Road Traffic Act that specify certain requirements for the driving style of any maneuver.
Maneuvers on the road
The ability to safely and considerately adapt your driving to changing traffic conditions and applicable traffic regulations on different types of roads and at different times (on and off-peak, daylight and dark) while performing all common maneuvers.
Special risk factors in traffic
Knowledge of some specific driving risk factors that help you become familiar with your own abilities and develop a road-safe attitude and behavior.
Maneuvers at a driving facility
Knowledge of some basic physics of driving to help you understand the importance of adapting speed, steering and braking to conditions. In addition, some ability to control the vehicle at moderate speed in certain critical situations, including braking in the shortest possible distance, braking and evasive maneuvers on high and low friction roads, and recovery of the vehicle after skidding on the road.
The maneuvers must be performed at an approved technical driving facility.
Number of lessons
The initial driving instruction for motorcycles and cars takes place in a closed practice area and the final instruction for all categories - with the exception of categories B/E, D/E - takes place at a technical driving facility.
The training pays special attention to the needs of the individual student. Some maneuvers must be learned with great safety and precision, some maneuvers must be mastered and other maneuvers you must achieve some proficiency in.
It is therefore not possible to set a number of lessons that all learner drivers must complete. Legislation requires that a standard program for a satisfactory training course consists of 53 lessons of 45 minutes each for ordinary cars. However, most learners will need more lessons to achieve the necessary driving skills, so the 53 lessons are an absolute minimum.
The end of driver training
The driving test assesses whether the purpose of the driver training has been achieved. The content of the driving test is described in the section on driving test content.
Period of validity
According to the regulations on driver training, theory and practical training must be integrated and must follow the sectionalization of the syllabus. The initial and final driving instruction must take place in a closed practice area and a technical driving facility respectively.
If - for example, after several attempts to pass the practical test - you are still in a training course, the previously completed exercises in the closed practice area and at the technical driving facility remain valid, even if several years have passed.
However, if the training course has been interrupted and the interruption has lasted longer, you must repeat the exercises on the closed practice area and the technical driving facility. This is the only way to maintain the intention of the curriculum for a coherent training program
The first years with a new licence are the most dangerous. This is when the risk of being involved in a traffic accident is greatest. That's why your licence is now "on probation" for the first three years. If you grossly violate traffic laws within the first three years of getting your licence, you will be banned from driving.
A driving ban means that you are not allowed to drive again until you have completed a new special driving course (both theory and practical) or an alcohol and traffic course and passed a new driving test. After that, your licence is on probation again.
Below you can find answers to more questions about the rules.
1.
When did the rules come into force?
Answer: The rules on driving bans/probationary licences came into force on 1 March 2002.
2.
Who do the rules apply to?
Answer: The rules apply to everyone, including those who obtained their licence before 1 March 2002. The first licence is "on probation" for three years.
For example, if you have currently held your first licence for 1 year and 7 months, the rules also apply to you.
3.
What does it mean that my licence is on probation?
Answer: It means that there are stricter penalties for serious traffic violations in the first three years after you get your first licence.
Where previously you would receive a conditional disqualification, you will now be banned from driving.
4.
What does it mean to be banned from driving?
Answer: If you are banned from driving, you must surrender your licence to the police. In principle, you are then treated as if you have no licence.
5.
Is the driver's licence taken on the spot?
Answer: No, normally not. The police can only demand the driver's licence when the decision on the driving ban is final. However, if the conditions for unconditional disqualification are met,
the police can withdraw the licence on the spot.
6.
What offenses can I get a driving ban for?
Answer: You will be banned from driving if, within three years of obtaining your first driving licence, you, for example
- Exceed the speed limit by more than 70% in a car, van, etc.
- exceed the speed limit by more than 40% in a truck, bus, car with trailer, etc.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol with more than 0.8 per mille
- Driving recklessly or inconsiderately, e.g. by overtaking at speed, ignoring an unconditional right of way or harassing other road users.
Previously, as mentioned, you would "settle for" a suspended licence for these offenses.
If you commit even more serious offenses or there are aggravating circumstances surrounding your misconduct, you may risk a more severe penalty. But that's how it's always been.
7.
If I have licences for multiple categories, are they all "on probation" for three years?
Answer: No, the three-year probationary period starts from the first category for which you have obtained a licence. The probationary period does not start over if you subsequently take/have taken driving licences for several categories.
8.
How long does the driving ban last?
Answer: The driving ban is valid until you have:
- completed a special driving course of at least 8 theory lessons of 45 minutes each and 8 driving lessons of 45 minutes each with a driving instructor or
- completed a mandatory alcohol and traffic course and
- passed a new driving test (both theory and driving test).
There is no fixed disqualification period - the driving ban is valid until you have completed the course and passed the driving test.
9.
If I am banned from driving, does it apply to all categories for which I have a licence?
Answer: Yes. If you are banned for an offense committed in, for example, a passenger car, the ban also applies to driving in all other categories for which you have a licence.
But you don't have to take lessons and pass a driving test in all your categories again. Which category you need to take lessons + driving test in is decided by the police on a case-by-case basis.
Once you have passed and the driving ban is lifted, you can drive all your categories again.
10.
What does the new special driving lessons consist of?
Answer. The new special driving lessons consist of selected parts of the regular curriculum: "Traffic Behavior", "Basic Driving Rules" and "Maneuvers on the Road".
It takes place with a driving instructor. The training must include at least 8 theory lessons and 8 driving lessons and must last at least 8 teaching days.
11.
If I've had a drink/drug driving offense and need to take an alcohol and traffic course, how and where does it take place?
Answer: The alcohol and traffic courses consist of 4 lessons of 2 ½ hours each and last at least 4 weeks. Attendance is compulsory for all lessons and you will be taught about legislation,
risk and the effects of alcohol. The alcohol consultants in the counties and the municipalities of Copenhagen and Frederiksberg are responsible for the courses, which are mainly held in the evening.
The courses are offered according to demand. So you may have to wait to get a place on a class.
12.
How much do lessons and courses cost?
Answer: The cost of driving and theory lessons depends on the rate of the individual driving instructor.
The alcohol and traffic course costs around DKK 2000. You have to pay for everything yourself.
Please note that in addition to the driving ban, there is a fine that depends on your offense.
13.
Can I get a discount on tuition if I am on a low income?
Answer: No.
What happens if I drive a car even though I am banned from driving?
Answer: You will be fined for driving without a licence. It costs 5,000 kr. - the first time.
Excerpts of comments to bill no. L 225 - published as law no. 498 of June 7, 2001 (Increased penalties for serious traffic offenses and introduction of driving bans) can be read here.
To become a driving instructor, you must meet the provisions of section 66 of the Danish Road Traffic Act regarding age, practical driving experience, training, tests and penalties. Before starting the training, you should also check whether you meet the health requirements.
The age requirement to become a driving instructor is 24 years.
Practical driving experience
In the past 2 years, you have not had your driving licence suspended or had it administratively withdrawn.
Have completed a pedagogical course approved by the Ministry of Justice as qualifying for the driving instructor program. This course must have a duration of 120 hours, corresponding to 10 credits
Applicants wishing to start driving instructor training must first have acquired a driving licence for categories A, B, C and C/E. In connection with driving instructor training for C, D, E, you must also have acquired a driving licence for commercial passenger transport D.
Education and training
To become a driving instructor, you must complete a driving instructor training program. The training must follow a curriculum for driving instructor training. The actual teaching must be given by a specially approved driving instructor. A specially approved driving instructor is approved for the category for which the driving instructor licence is required and has completed an approved course.
The aim of the driving instructor training program is to provide the driving instructor trainee with the theoretical and practical prerequisites to be able to teach driving students in accordance with the applicable rules for the category for which approval is sought.
In the training program, the trainee must achieve the following:
- In-depth knowledge of the curriculum for the driving training for which the driving instructor certification is requested.
- necessary knowledge of pedagogical principles and skills in teaching students in a driving school.
- Knowledge of traffic laws, vehicle technology, driving techniques and risk theory in addition to the content of the curriculum for the selected category.
- Training is provided by private driving instructor schools and lasts approximately 8 months.
The driving instructor test
The content of the driving instructor test is regulated in the Driving Instructor Order. The test consists of a written pre-test and an oral final practical test. The exams, which are held twice a year, are taken before a test commission, either east of the Great Belt or west of the Great Belt. Each test commission consists of 2 members. One appointed by the Police (chairman) and one car inspector. A number of alternates are also appointed.
The pre-test assesses whether the candidate has acquired the necessary knowledge of the syllabus for the chosen driving licence category. The test is written and covers the system and content of the syllabus. Once the preliminary test has been passed, the candidate can sit the final test.
The final test assesses whether the trainee has the necessary theoretical and practical skills to teach driving students. The test, which is oral, consists of a test of knowledge and driving skills and a test of teaching students in theory and practice.
There is usually the possibility to go up 3 times.
To participate in the driving instructor test, a fee must be paid.
Rules of conduct
If the applicant has been convicted of a criminal offense that may create an imminent danger of abuse of the position of driving instructor, a driving instructor certificate cannot be issued. The chairman of the examination board decides whether the conditions are met on the basis of a criminal record.
Driving instructor certification
Driving instructor licences can be obtained for category A (motorcycle), category B (regular car) and categories C-D and E (truck, large passenger car and large trailer).
Driving licence
If the driving instructor test is passed, the driving licence can be endorsed with a driving instructor certificate for the chosen category. However, it is a prerequisite that the applicant otherwise meets the general conditions for being issued a driving licence.
Prices, duration and course start
For prices, duration and course start dates, please refer to the relevant educational institutions. Dansk Kørelærer-Union is an industry organization and is not responsible for driving instructor training.
The driving licence is valid for 5 years. From January 1, 2016, a 5-day continuing education course is required for renewal. The Danish Driving Instructor Union offers continuing education courses.
Regaining your driver's licence
If you have been disqualified and lost your driving licence, you need to reacquire your licence to be able to drive legally again. You can regain your licence by meeting a number of conditions, which may differ depending on the type of driving disqualification. Check out all the conditions here and find out how to get your licence back.
How do I get my licence back?
If you have been disqualified from driving, you can only legally drive again once you have regained your licence. You regain your licence by meeting a number of conditions, which can vary depending on the reason why your licence was suspended.
What conditions do I need to meet to regain my licence?
Conditional driving disqualification
If you have received a conditional driving disqualification, you can regain your licence during a three-year trial period if you pass a controlled driving test. This test consists of a theoretical and practical test where you will be tested on the underlying theory of driving and your practical driving skills.
When you retake the theory test and driving test, it is not a prerequisite that you go through the entire required theory and driving course again. However, if a deadline has been set for you to pass the driving test, you must meet this deadline. The deadline is usually set at 6 months.
If you commit a traffic offense within the three-year probationary period that can trigger a new conditional driving disqualification, you will receive an unconditional driving disqualification of at least 6 months. You will only receive a conditional driving disqualification if you have had your licence for more than 3 years before you were disqualified. If you have not had your licence for more than 3 years, you will receive a driving ban.
Driving ban
If you are banned from driving, you can only regain your licence once you have undergone special training and passed a driving test. The special training must be conducted by an approved driving instructor and the training must consist of at least 8 lessons of 45 minutes in theory and 8 lessons of 45 minutes in driving. It is also a requirement that the training extends over a minimum of 8 training days.
Unconditional driving disqualification
If you have an unconditional driving disqualification, this means that you can only regain your licence once the disqualification period has expired. You regain your licence by passing a driving test.
Disqualification due to drink-driving
If your licence has been suspended due to drink-driving or similar, it is also a condition for the reinstatement of your licence that you complete an alcohol/drug/traffic course, including an ANT course.
How do I apply for licence reinstatement?
In order to regain your licence, it is a condition that you apply for the renewal.
If you have been disqualified from driving, you will generally need to go in person to one of the country's municipalities and hand in a completed application form and an approved passport photo. In some municipalities, your driving instructor can attend for you and handle this part of the process. When you hand in the application form, either you or your driving instructor will need to present your valid driver's licence or passport, as well as your letter of disqualification. If you have been disqualified for drink-driving, you will also need to provide an ANT course certificate.
In the case of a conditional driving disqualification, make sure you apply for reinstatement in good time, as you must pass a driving test within 6 months of the conviction. Failure to do so will result in an unconditional disqualification of your licence.
If you have had your driving licence suspended unconditionally, you can apply for reinstatement of your licence at the earliest one month before the suspension period expires.
Conditional disqualification of driving licence
A conditional driving disqualification means that you can keep your licence if you pass a driving test within 6 months of the disqualification. But what other requirements do you need to meet to keep your licence? And what situations can lead to a conditional driving disqualification? Get the answers here.
What does conditional disqualification mean?
A conditional driving disqualification means that you keep your licence if you pass a new driving test. You must pass both a theory test, which tests your theoretical knowledge of driving, and a driving test, which tests your practical driving skills.
You don't need to take theory or driving lessons before taking your test. However, it may be a good idea to take a few theory lessons, as even experienced drivers can struggle to pass the theory test.
If your driving licence is conditionally disqualified, you must take and pass the driving test, including the theory test, within 6 months of your driving licence being disqualified by a court decision. If you do not meet the 6-month deadline, you will generally have your licence suspended unconditionally instead.
Additional conditions
Once you have passed both the driving test and the theory test after the conditional disqualification, your licence is reinstated for a probationary period of 3 years. After this, it is a condition that you do not commit any new traffic offenses that can trigger a conditional disqualification or worse, as this will result in an unconditional disqualification of your licence for at least 6 months.
If you have received a conditional driving disqualification due to drink-driving, it is also a condition for reinstatement that you complete an ANT course (alcohol/drug/traffic course).
Application requirements
In order to regain your licence after a conditional disqualification, you generally need to visit one of the country's municipalities in person and bring a completed application form. However, in some municipalities, your driving instructor can attend for you and handle this part of the process. For this, you - or your driving instructor on your behalf - must present a valid passport or driver's licence, as well as the letter you received regarding the suspension of your licence. You will also need to bring an ANT course certificate if your licence has been suspended due to drink-driving.
When can you get a suspended licence?
It is only possible to get a conditional driving disqualification if you have had a licence for more than 3 years before the disqualification. This is because your first 3 years of driving is a probationary period, and a disqualification during this probationary period will probably result in a driving ban.
Situations involving a conditional driving disqualification
You can get a conditional suspension of your licence if you:
- Get 3 points on your licence within a period of 3 years.
- Driving more than 60% over the permitted speed limit.
- Driving more than 40% over the speed limit during roadworks.
- Driving with a blood alcohol level between 0.5 and 1.2.
- Driving more than 160 km/h.
- Not providing assistance where possible after you have been involved in a road traffic accident.
- Otherwise disregards essential road safety considerations.
What do you need to know for the driving test, the practical test?
Watch the video or use the checklist.
