Car Rental in Denmark for Australian Travelers

Driving through Denmark's scenic landscapes from Australia can be a thrilling experience. However, understanding rental procedures and local driving rules beforehand is crucial. Here’s a tailored guide for smooth exploration:

Can I use my Australian driver’s license in Denmark?
What types of insurance do I need for rentals?
Is renting a car expensive in Denmark?
Are long-distance or one-way rentals available?
What Danish traffic rules should I familiarize myself with?
What kind of cars are typically offered for rental?
How does the pricing range for popular car models?
Are there extra fees for additional drivers?

Follow this guide to answer your car rental queries and confidently navigate Denmark’s roads. With detailed sections and practical advice, your journey is bound to be memorable.

Can Australian Citizens Drive in Denmark?

Yes, Australian travelers can legally drive in Denmark with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

Form of ID:
A valid passport is required.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
or
• EU/EEA Driving License
Notes: Due to local Danish tax regulations, customers registered with Denmark's Dansk Folkeregister, regardless of nationality, cannot book this rental company's vehicles via QEEQ. Please select another rental company.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, and DinersClub.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be aged between 19 and 80 years. Young drivers aged 19-24 may incur a fee of US$ 19.75 per day, capped at US$ 197.55 for the rental.

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Choose from trusted global chains or innovative local alternatives. Each offers different advantages for Australian travelers in Denmark.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
61
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- 24/7 customer service
- Easy online booking
- Loyalty program benefits
Best for
Travelers seeking a mix of affordability and quality
Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
143
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Excellent customer service
- Loyalty program benefits
- Easy online booking
- Variety of rental locations
Best for
Travelers looking for flexibility and a wide selection of vehicles
Keddy by Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
68
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Easy online booking
- Strong customer service support
- Various pick-up and drop-off locations
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Budget
global
8.5
Locations:
171
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Wide range of vehicles
- Convenient locations
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
30
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Easy online booking
- No hidden fees
- Wide range of vehicle options
- Great customer service
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
76
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs

Recommendations for Australian Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

First time renting in Denmark
Need reliable nationwide coverage
Want 24/7 customer support
Business or important travel

Choose Local Brands If:

Want to save money
Staying in major cities only
Want unique vehicle experiences
Comfortable with app-based services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your journey more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Consider your travel group, the destinations in Denmark, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, compare multiple car types and policies to find the best option for your itinerary.

Seating and Luggage
Evaluate your travel group size and luggage requirements
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Offers a balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Convenient for urban driving and traffic, widely available in Denmark
- Manual transmission
  Often more economical, provides better control
- Australian drivers familiar with automatic may prefer this option
- Consider your comfort with driving in different weather conditions
Insurance Included
Understand the insurance options provided with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles, typically included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Protects your rental car, often recommended
- Theft protection
  Coverage against car theft, usually optional
- Personal insurance
  Verify if your Australian travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and potential fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid options are often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Costs for modifications to bookings
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance limits and extra charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Perfect for extensive exploration of Denmark
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper but incurs extra charges for exceeding limits
- Review your planned driving itinerary
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing rental options
Fuel Policy
Understand the fuel requirements and options
- Full-to-Full
  Return with a full tank, economical and common
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for a full tank, convenient but potentially costlier
- Same-to-Same
  Return at the same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Compare pre-purchase fuel costs with local prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Copenhagen, Aarhus, Aalborg
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-country travel in Denmark
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
coastal and scenic regions

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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Popular Destinations in Denmark

Denmark offers travelers from Australia a charming mix of history, culture, and scenic routes. Explore Copenhagen's vibrant cityscape, Aarhus's artistic streets, Odense's museums, or the picturesque landscapes of Zealand.

What Insurance Do I Need?

Driving in Denmark requires at least basic liability insurance, which is typically included in your rental fee. However, additional coverages are strongly recommended to minimize unexpected expenses. Be sure to check the details of included insurance and consider extra protection options to suit your travel needs.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car from collision or accidents, with a possible excess fee.
AUD 25-40/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Protects against the theft of the rental vehicle, often with a deductible.
AUD 10-15/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance
Covers damages and injuries caused to others and their property.
Included with rental
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Provides coverage for medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.
AUD 7-12/day
Optional
Super Collision Damage Waiver
Reduces or eliminates the excess fee for collision damages.
AUD 30-50/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Denmark. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

US$760.00 - US$1,762.39

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

US$760.00 - US$1,762.39

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Denmark?

Planning ahead and making informed choices can significantly reduce your car rental costs in Denmark. These tips are tailored for travelers from Australia to maximize savings and convenience.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Well in Advance
Rental prices in Denmark tend to rise closer to the date. Booking at least 3-6 weeks ahead ensures better rates and car availability.
Save up to 35% on rental fees
Utilize Price Comparison Platforms
Use online tools like Rentalcars.com or QEEQ to compare and find the best car rental deals.
Potential savings of 20-30%
Opt for a Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Select rentals that allow you to pick up and return the car with a full tank. Refill at local gas stations to avoid premium rates charged by rental companies.
Save $30-50 AUD on fuel costs
Choose Economy or Compact Cars
Smaller cars are more fuel-efficient and often cheaper to rent, perfect for Denmark's urban and rural roads.
Reduce daily rental rates by 15-25%
Check Your Insurance Coverage
Verify if your travel or credit card insurance covers car rentals. Declining unnecessary insurance at the counter can cut extra costs.
Save up to $10-20 AUD per day

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
View Details
Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
View Details
One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Denmark.

Currency and Payment
Ensure your payment method is accepted and familiarize yourself with currency differences.
- Confirm if your credit card is accepted in Denmark.
- Understand the conversion rate between AUD and DKK.
- Check for additional international transaction fees on your card.
- Some rental agencies may require a deposit.
Driving Laws
Familiarize yourself with Denmark's road rules to avoid fines.
- Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
- Adhere to speed limits, which are strictly enforced.
- Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless hands-free.
Refueling and Fuel Costs
Understand the fuel policies and pricing in Denmark.
- Fuel prices in Denmark can be high, especially near highways.
- Opt for 'full-to-full' fuel policies to save costs.
- Locate nearby refueling stations before returning the vehicle.
- Diesel and petrol are common; ensure the correct fuel type for your car.
Rental Agreement Details
Carefully review the rental contract terms.
- Check for mileage restrictions.
- Understand insurance coverage and liabilities.
- Note vehicle return policies and grace periods.
- Keep a copy of the agreement for reference.
Toll Roads
Be aware of toll roads and payment methods in Denmark.
- Some bridges and highways may require tolls.
- Electronic payment systems might be used instead of cash.
- Confirm if tolls are included in the rental agreement.
Seasonal Considerations
Account for weather conditions, especially in winter.
- Winter tires are mandatory during certain months.
- Ensure the car is equipped with safety measures for icy roads.
- Plan extra time for travel during adverse weather conditions.

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

Differences and Similarities Between Traffic Rules in AU and DK

AU and DK traffic regulations differ primarily in road signage, driving customs, and legal BAC limits, while maintaining similarities in seatbelt and mobile phone use policies.

Road Signage
DK
Primarily in Danish, with universal symbols
AU
English language with universal symbols
Blood Alcohol Limit
DK
0.05% BAC
AU
0.05% BAC
Seatbelt Usage
DK
Mandatory for all passengers
AU
Mandatory for all passengers
Mobile Phone Use
DK
Hands-free usage mandatory
AU
Hands-free usage mandatory
Remember
- • Check for local signage and understand Danish road symbols.
- • Be cautious about speed limits, particularly in urban areas.
- • Adhere to parking regulations and avoid fines.
- • Carry your license and rental agreement while driving.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Australia renting a car in Denmark

What are the basic requirements for renting a car in Denmark as an Australian traveler?

You must be at least 21 years old (some companies require 23 or 25), hold a valid driver's license for at least one year, and present an international credit card in the main driver's name for payment and deposit.

Can I use my Australian driver’s license to legally rent and drive in Denmark?

Yes, as long as your Australian license is valid and in English (not a learner or provisional license), you can rent and drive in Denmark for up to 90 days as a tourist.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if my Australian license is in English?

While not legally mandatory for English licenses, it’s strongly recommended to obtain an IDP. It serves as an official multi-language translation and can help with police or rental company communication.

What documents are required at car pick-up in Denmark?

You’ll need your original Australian driver’s license, your IDP (recommended), your valid passport, and an international credit card in the main driver’s name.

Are there age restrictions or extra fees for young drivers in Denmark?

Yes, minimum age is usually 21. Drivers aged 21-24 may incur a daily Young Driver Surcharge and may be restricted from renting certain car categories.

Why is a credit card required for car rental? How much will be held as a deposit?

A credit card secures the rental company’s interest, with a deposit typically frozen between 500-1500 EUR (approx. 800-2400 AUD), depending on car category and company. This is a pre-authorization, released after return if no issues.

Can I use my Australian debit card to rent a car in Denmark?

Most Danish rental companies do not accept debit cards for the deposit. You can pay the rental fee with a debit card, but the deposit must be secured with a credit card.

How far in advance should I book my rental car for Denmark?

It’s highly recommended to book at least 1-2 months in advance, especially for summer (June-August) or holidays, to secure your desired car and better rates.

Which platform should I use to book a rental car in Denmark?

QEEQ is highly recommended as it compares prices from major international and Danish rental companies, and offers features like Chinese language support and bundled insurance deals.

Why particularly choose QEEQ for booking?

QEEQ offers price comparison, Chinese support, clear policy details, frequent insurance package deals, and easy-to-understand rental terms, making it especially user-friendly for Australians.

Can I rent a car at Copenhagen Airport and return it in Aarhus?

Yes, most companies offer one-way rentals, usually with an additional one-way fee. QEEQ will automatically calculate and include this in your total quote.

Can I drive my Danish rental car into Sweden or Germany?

Usually yes, but this is called a cross-border rental. Inform the rental company during booking or pick-up and expect a cross-border fee. Failing to notify may void your insurance.

What will I receive after booking with QEEQ?

You’ll get an email confirmation with a voucher detailing your booking number, rental company, pick-up/drop-off locations and times, and cost breakdown. Bring this voucher when collecting your car.

Can I change or cancel my booking on QEEQ if my plans change?

Yes, QEEQ generally offers flexible cancellation and amendment policies, often free up to 48 hours before pick-up. Check your specific booking terms for details.

What is usually included in the rental price shown on QEEQ?

Typically, the quote covers vehicle rental, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), Third Party Liability (TPL), unlimited mileage (usually), and local taxes.

What extra costs should I be aware of apart from the base rental fee?

Possible extras include young driver fees, additional driver fees, GPS or child seat rental, one-way or cross-border fees, airport pick-up fees, fuel, and tolls.

What is Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and does it make me fully liable-free?

CDW is not insurance—it reduces your liability to a set excess/deductible if the car is damaged. You’ll still be responsible for the excess amount, which can be up to 1000-2000 EUR.

What does 'excess' or 'deductible' mean in car rental insurance?

The excess is the maximum you’ll pay out-of-pocket for damage. For example, if your excess is 1500 EUR, and repair costs 500 EUR, you pay 500. If repairs are 5000 EUR, you pay 1500, the rest is covered.

Should I buy the expensive 'Super Cover' insurance at the rental counter?

Super Cover or zero-excess insurance removes your liability for the excess, but it’s usually very expensive. Consider whether peace of mind is worth the premium.

Is there a more economical way to cover the excess risk?

Yes. QEEQ offers third-party full excess refund insurance at booking, which is much cheaper. If you have a claim, pay the excess to the rental company, then claim reimbursement from the insurer.

Does my Australian travel insurance cover car rental excess?

Some premium Australian travel insurance policies include rental vehicle excess cover, but limits may apply. Check your policy details and claim process before travel.

What is Denmark’s usual fuel policy for rental cars?

Most rentals operate on a 'full-to-full' policy: pick up the car with a full tank and return it full. If you return it less than full, you’ll be charged for fuel plus a service fee.

What type of car should I choose for my first time driving in Denmark?

For city trips, choose a compact car; for family or long-distance, a mid-size or wagon; for rural or winter driving, an SUV may be better. Match your car to your itinerary and group size.

Are automatic cars easy to find for rent in Denmark?

Manual cars are more common and cheaper in Europe. Automatics are available but less common and pricier. Book early and specifically select 'automatic transmission' if you’re not comfortable with manual.

Is it necessary to rent a GPS?

Not really. You can use Google Maps or Waze on your phone (ensure you have data via a local SIM or roaming). Renting a GPS is an option if you prefer not to use your phone.

What child seat laws apply in Denmark, and do I need to rent one?

Children under 135cm must use a suitable child seat. Fines are steep for non-compliance. You can rent one with your car, but bringing your own (EU-approved) seat may be more economical for long trips.

What is the car pick-up process at Copenhagen Airport?

Follow airport signs to 'Car Rental', locate your rental company, show your documents and voucher, complete paperwork, collect keys and car location info, then inspect and collect your vehicle.

What should I check before driving away with my rental car?

Inspect and photograph existing damage, check tires and glass, test lights and AC, ensure legally required items (reflective vest, warning triangle) are present, and confirm the fuel level is full.

What should I scrutinize on the rental contract before signing?

Double-check rental period, total cost, insurance coverage, excess amount, and any agreed extras or declined services to ensure all matches your booking.

What’s the biggest challenge for Australians driving in Denmark?

Switching from left-hand to right-hand driving is the main challenge. Remember: the driver sits closest to the road center line. Take it slow at first, especially on turns and roundabouts.

What are the general speed limits in Denmark?

Unless posted otherwise: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h (sometimes 110 km/h) on motorways. Speeding fines are strict.

Are there any special headlight rules in Denmark?

Daytime running lights (dipped headlights) must be on at all times, regardless of weather or daylight. Modern cars usually enable this automatically.

What is the legal blood alcohol limit for drivers in Denmark?

The limit is 0.05% BAC. As a rule, avoid any alcohol before driving to stay safe and avoid hefty penalties.

Can I use a mobile phone while driving in Denmark?

Handheld phone use is strictly prohibited while driving. Use hands-free or Bluetooth systems only. Fines for violations are substantial.

How should I navigate Danish roundabouts?

Yield to vehicles already inside the roundabout. Signal right when exiting. Take extra care when entering and give way as required.

What does the 'Vigepligt' sign mean?

It’s a yield (give way) sign. You must yield to vehicles on the main road before proceeding.

What happens if I get a speeding or parking ticket in a rental car?

Fines are sent to the rental company, which will charge your credit card plus an administrative fee. Always follow traffic rules to avoid penalties.

What is the general road condition in Denmark?

Denmark’s roads are very well maintained, signposted, and easy to drive, including rural and secondary routes.

Are there toll roads in Denmark?

There isn’t a national toll system, but two major bridges (Storebælt and Øresund) charge significant tolls.

How do I pay for bridge tolls in Denmark?

Pay by credit card directly at the toll booth. Some rentals have electronic devices (Bizz) and toll charges will be billed to you later by the rental company.

What are 'environmental zones' (Miljøzoner) in Denmark, and do they affect rental cars?

Major cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus have environmental zones restricting high-emission vehicles, but all rental cars meet requirements, so you can enter freely.

What is a 'parking disc' (P-skive) and how do I use it?

For time-limited free parking spots, set the disc (usually provided in rental cars) to your arrival time and display it on the dashboard.

Can I take my rental car on a ferry in Denmark?

Yes. Many Danish islands are connected by ferries, and you simply buy a ticket for your car as you would for a passenger.

Is driving in downtown Copenhagen recommended?

Not ideal. Streets are narrow, parking is scarce and expensive, and there are many cyclists. Consider parking at the hotel or a Park & Ride and using public transport or bikes to explore the city.

What is the typical car return process?

Drive to the designated return area, have the car inspected for damage and fuel, hand over the keys and paperwork. For after-hours returns, use the key drop-box.

What happens if I return the car late?

Late returns may incur an extra full day’s rental at a higher rate. If you anticipate a delay, call the rental company in advance to avoid penalties.

Do I need to wash the car before returning?

Only standard cleanliness is required. If the car is excessively dirty (inside or out), you may be charged a cleaning fee. Otherwise, no need to wash before return.

What should I do if I have an accident?

Ensure everyone’s safety, call emergency services at 112 if needed, wear the reflective vest, place the warning triangle, exchange details with other parties, photograph the scene, and contact the rental company’s emergency number.

What if my rental car breaks down?

Call the 24-hour roadside assistance number provided in your rental contract. Do not arrange repairs yourself; the rental company will coordinate rescue or repairs.

What is Denmark’s emergency phone number?

Dial 112 for police, ambulance, or fire services. The number is free and works even without a SIM card in your phone.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Denmark for Australian Travelers

Driving through Denmark's scenic landscapes from Australia can be a thrilling experience. However, understanding rental procedures and local driving rules beforehand is crucial. Here’s a tailored guide for smooth exploration:

Can Australian Citizens Drive in Denmark?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Australian Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Popular Destinations in Denmark

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Denmark?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Differences and Similarities Between Traffic Rules in AU and DK

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations