Denmark is known for its efficient public transport and cycling culture, but some people still prefer to own a car—especially those living outside major cities or planning extended stays. If you’re moving to Denmark or staying for an extended period, you might be wondering: Is buying a car in Denmark a good idea? How does the process work for foreigners?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about buying a car in Denmark, including costs, taxes, legal requirements, and the best places to buy a vehicle.
👉 For a full guide, check out: Buying a Car in Denmark as a Foreigner
Is It Worth Buying a Car in Denmark? 🚗
Before buying a car, consider whether you really need one. Denmark has an excellent public transport system, and cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus are bike-friendly, making car ownership unnecessary for many people.
However, owning a car can be beneficial if:
✔️ You live outside a major city with limited public transport options
✔️ You need a car for work or frequent long-distance travel
✔️ You’re planning to stay in Denmark long-term
⚠️ Keep in mind: Buying a car in Denmark can be very expensive due to high taxes and registration fees.
Costs of Buying a Car in Denmark 💰
Denmark has some of the highest car prices in Europe due to a registration tax of up to 150% on new cars.
Key Costs to Consider
- Purchase Price: A new car costs between DKK 200,000–500,000 (€27,000–67,000) depending on the model.
- Registration Tax: Can be 25%–150% of the car’s value, depending on fuel efficiency and emissions.
- Road Tax: Between DKK 1,000–20,000 per year, based on emissions.
- Insurance: Around DKK 5,000–10,000 (€670–1,350) per year.
- Fuel Prices: One of the highest in Europe at about DKK 14–16 (€1.90–2.15) per liter.
💡 Tip: Many expats prefer to buy a used car to avoid high registration taxes on new vehicles.
Where to Buy a Car in Denmark?
You can buy a car from:
1. Dealerships (Best for New Cars & Financing Options)
✔️ Offers warranties and financing options
✔️ Higher prices due to dealership fees
Popular Danish car dealerships:
- Bilbasen.dk (Largest online car marketplace)
- Autocom.dk (Great for used car deals)
2. Private Sellers (Best for Cheaper Used Cars)
✔️ Lower prices than dealerships
✔️ No warranties—make sure to inspect the car properly
Find private sellers on:
- dba.dk (Danish equivalent of Craigslist)
- Facebook Marketplace
👉 Need more tips? Read: Buying a Car in Denmark as a Foreigner
Legal Requirements for Buying a Car in Denmark 📜
To buy and register a car in Denmark, you must meet legal requirements, including:
✔️ CPR Number (Danish Personal ID) – Required for registration
✔️ NemID/MitID – Needed for online paperwork
✔️ Danish Address – You must have a registered residence in Denmark
✔️ Car Insurance – Required before registering the vehicle
💡 Tip: If you’re staying in Denmark temporarily, consider leasing a car instead of buying one to avoid high costs and paperwork.
How to Register a Car in Denmark? 📝
After purchasing a car, you need to register it with the Danish Motor Vehicle Registry (Motorstyrelsen).
Steps to Register Your Car:
1️⃣ Get insurance before registering the car.
2️⃣ Register the car online at www.skat.dk using NemID/MitID.
3️⃣ Pay the registration tax (if applicable).
4️⃣ Get Danish license plates issued.
5️⃣ Complete a vehicle inspection if required.
💡 Important: If you’re importing a car from another country, you must register it within 30 days of arriving in Denmark.
Alternatives to Buying a Car in Denmark 🚲🚆
If you’re hesitant about buying a car in Denmark, consider these alternatives:
✅ Car Leasing: Avoid high taxes by leasing a car instead of buying one.
✅ Car Sharing Services: Use apps like GreenMobility, LetsGo, or DriveNow.
✅ Public Transport: Metro, trains, and buses are efficient and reliable.
✅ Biking: Copenhagen is one of the world’s most bike-friendly cities!
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy a Car in Denmark?
🚗 Buying a car in Denmark is expensive due to high taxes and fuel costs. However, it can be beneficial for those living outside cities or planning to stay long-term.
💡 If you only need a car occasionally, consider leasing, car-sharing, or using public transport instead.
Now that you know the process, you can decide whether buying a car in Denmark is the right choice for you!