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Danish car plates: All you need to know

If you are thinking of importing your vehicle to Denmark, it is essential to register it and pay the fees. We will tell you how step by step.
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September 5, 20244 min read
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When it comes to owning a vehicle in Denmark, one of the most important aspects is ensuring proper registration.  

The vehicle registration certificate, known as the Registreringsattest, serves as proof of ownership and compliance with legal requirements.  

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the details of vehicle registration, known as Registreringsattest, what steps you need to follow to register it, what documents you need, how much it costs and how to check the status of the registration.  

How does the Danish car registration system work? 

All motor vehicles must be registered and have Danish number plates.  

If your vehicle is new, it is usually the dealer salesperson who obtains the registration.  

If your car is second-hand, you can obtain a registration from any registration supplier or from the offices of the Danish Motor Vehicle Agency.  

Whether you have a new or second-hand car (imported or not) you must always have a registration certificate to obtain a Danish number plate.  

Registering an imported vehicle

If you want to import a vehicle to Denmark, you will have a period of 30 days to register your vehicle.  

These are the steps you will need to follow:  

  1. If you are a resident, you must inform the Danish Motor Vehicle Agency (Motorstyrelsen) and print out their receipt. If you do not reside in Denmark or your vehicle does not have a license plate, go to the next step.  
  2. Pass an inspection at any of the authorised centres.  
  3. Submit the registration certificate, in person or by post, to the Motorstyrelsen
  4. Request an appraisal from the Danish Motor Vehicle Register or through a private appraisal company.  
  5. Pay the registration tax.  
  6. Register your vehicle in the Motor Vehicle Register and purchase new license plates.  
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You can review the special conditions and get more information on the official website of the Danish Motor Vehicle Agency (Motorstyrelsen).

What documents do you need? 

To complete the process of registering your Danish licence plate, you will need to gather the following documents:  

  • Receipt of the notification form to the Danish Motor Vehicle Authority, if applicable. 
  • Inspection certificate.  
  • Registration certificate.  
  • Customs payment certificate.  
  • European Certificate of Conformity (COC).  

This last document certifies that your vehicle complies with European emissions and safety regulations and is essential for importing any vehicle into the EU.  

When you DON'T need a Danish number plate 

If you plan to drive a vehicle with a foreign registration plate in Denmark for a period of less than 185 days in 12 months, it will not be necessary to pay taxes in the country.   

How much do Danish number plates cost?

The price may vary depending on the model of the vehicle, its age, where it comes from, etc.  

In general, you can calculate the cost based on the following prices:  

The Importance of Danish vehicle registration

Registering your vehicle in Denmark is crucial for several reasons:  

Proof of ownership: The Registreringsattest serves as legal proof of your ownership of the vehicle.  

Compliance with the law: It helps law enforcement agencies to identify and trace vehicles involved in traffic offences, accidents or criminal activities.  

Safety and emissions standards: The registration process ensures that your vehicle complies with the necessary safety and emissions standards through periodic inspections and tests.  

Road taxes and insurance: It allows the collection of road taxes and verification of vehicle insurance.  

Driving on public roads: Always keep a part of the Registreringsattest in your vehicle as proof of registration and compliance with legal requirements.  

Sale or transfer of ownership: The Registreringsattest is required to sell or transfer ownership of your vehicle.  

Insurance purposes: Insurance companies may request the Registreringsattest for the issuance of policies or the processing of claims. 

Interactions with law enforcement: You may be required to present the Registreringsattest during routine checks, traffic violations or accidents.  

Renewal of roadworthiness tests: The Registreringsattest is required to renew roadworthiness tests or to access certain parking facilities or toll roads.  

Checking vehicle registration information in Denmark

To check the registration status of a vehicle in Denmark, you can visit the Danish Vehicle Registration website (DMR). 

By entering the vehicle's VIN, you can access essential information such as the technical inspection expiry date and the vehicle's registration status.  

This allows vehicle owners to keep themselves informed about the necessary maintenance and inspection requirements.  

The DMR website also provides access to technical records related to the vehicle, offering information on its history, specifications and any modifications made.  

Helpful Resources:  

https://lifeindenmark.borger.dk/travel-and-transport/motor-vehicles/temporary-or-permanent-import-of-a-motor-vehicle  

https://motorst.dk/en-us/individuals/importing-vehicles  

https://motorst.dk/en-us/individuals/registration-and-re-registration/registration-certificate  

https://motorst.dk/en-us/individuals/registration-and-re-registration/re-registration-of-vehicles  

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