Am I allowed to drive after drinking in Denmark?
Only if you are under the alcohol limit. The general limit is 0.5, but new drivers have a stricter limit of 0.2 in their first 3 years with a licence. Between 0.5 and 1.2 you get a fine calculated as your net monthly salary times the per-mille level, a conditional loss of licence and a requirement to retake the test and complete an alcohol-and-traffic course. Over 1.2 you lose your licence unconditionally for 3 years and can get prison. Over 2.0 the car is confiscated. The car is also confiscated for repeated serious drink-driving.
📋 The rules
- General limit 0.5
- New drivers: 0.2 in the first 3 years
- 0.5–1.2: fine + conditional loss + alcohol course
- Over 1.2: unconditional loss for 3 years
- Over 2.0: the car is confiscated
🔓 Exceptions
- New drivers have the stricter 0.2 limit
- Confiscation can be waived if it would be disproportionate (rare)
- An alcohol-and-traffic course is required regardless of level before re-licensing
⚠️ Penalties & fines
The fine between 0.5 and 1.2 is calculated as net monthly salary times the per-mille level. Over 1.2 you lose your licence unconditionally for 3 years and can get prison. Over 2.0 the car is confiscated.
📎 Official sources
❓ Frequently asked
What is the alcohol limit in Denmark?
The general limit is 0.5. New drivers have 0.2 in their first 3 years with a licence.
What happens between 0.5 and 1.2?
A fine calculated as net monthly salary times the level, a conditional loss of licence and an alcohol-and-traffic course.
When do I lose my licence unconditionally?
Over 1.2 you lose your licence unconditionally for 3 years and can get prison.
When is the car confiscated?
Over 2.0 the car is confiscated, and also for repeated serious drink-driving.
Is there a stricter limit for new drivers?
Yes. In the first 3 years with a licence the limit is 0.2.
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