US licence Denmark

Driving in Denmark with a US license

IDP Required

Yes — to drive in Denmark on a US licence you should carry an International Driving Permit together with your US licence. Denmark expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP.

Convention basisDenmark recognises the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions. We issue the permit in that exact format.

At the rental deskCopenhagen desks ask for an IDP for non-EU licences.

CarryCarry BOTH your US national licence and the IDP at all times. The IDP is a translation of your licence and never replaces it.

Minimum age18+ to drive; rental typically 21+ with a young-driver surcharge under 25

Validity1–3 years (you choose at checkout)

FormatDigital PDF you print yourself, plus a QR-verifiable ID card — accepted alongside printed permits

Last verified June 2026Source: Geneva 1949 / Vienna 1968

Get my IDP for Denmark Full Denmark guide

U.S. drivers should carry an International Driving Permit alongside their state licence when driving or renting a car abroad. Your International Driving Permit is the recognised multilingual translation of your existing licence, issued in the 1949 Geneva & 1968 Vienna format and carried alongside your national licence.

Driving rules in Denmark

Daytime running lights mandatory.
Watch for cyclists at junctions.
0.05% alcohol limit.
Warning triangle required.

Common questions

Do I need an IDP to drive in Denmark with a US license?

Yes — to drive in Denmark on a US licence you should carry an International Driving Permit together with your US licence. Denmark expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP.

What IDP format does Denmark accept?

Denmark recognises the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions. We issue the permit in that exact format.

Do I still carry my US license?

Carry BOTH your US national licence and the IDP at all times. The IDP is a translation of your licence and never replaces it.