Here are all of the drinking rules that you need to learn about when visiting Denmark, including information on the Denmark drinking age. This is a topic that hopes to answer all of your intriguing questions regarding Danish drinking culture and what to do when you’re visiting the country as a tourist or from overseas. But if you’re not doing any of those things and are just curious about the country’s drinking laws, then go ahead and read this topic as well.
Sadly, Denmark seems to be one of those countries with a steadily growing drinking issue, especially among its adults. According to a recent report, at least one out of every five Danes consumes alcohol at a very quick rate. This can be harmful to their health in the long run, or cause injuries, especially when they get behind the wheel. Danish adolescents have also held the European record in getting inebriated. But what are the rules when it comes to consuming liquor in this country?
What is the Legal Drinking Age in Denmark?
Denmark is one of the fewer countries in the world where the legal drinking age is 16 years old. However, there have been instances in which people as young as 14 have gotten drunk or have at least tried a sip of alcohol at least once. Meanwhile, adults as young as 18 can purchase harder types of liquor or just any beverage with a higher percentage of alcohol in it.
What is the Legal Drinking Age in Denmark for Tourists and Foreigners?
The legal drinking age in Denmark can be 16 years old or 18 years old, depending on the kind of drink that you purchase. This might come as a shocker for several tourists, especially those who are from countries with stricter drinking laws or have a higher legal drinking age. Danes are also known for consuming plenty of alcohol, so don’t be shocked if a Danish acquaintance of yours invites you to drink some beer for a festivity or a simple gathering.
Do You Need an ID to Drink in Denmark?
Danish people have a huge drinking culture, so even if it’s not allowed to buy the alcohol of your choice without an ID, then there’s a huge chance that you can still get away with it without a hitch. Bars and clubs, or just about any other place that serves alcohol, will require you to present an ID or any legal document if you are a minor (or look like one). Plenty of these nightclubs or bars are licensed under the local municipality or even the Danish police – This means that the establishments themselves are not allowed to sell alcohol to minors, either.
Legal Drinking Age in Denmark with Parents
When you ask a Danish person what the legal drinking age is in their country, a few of them will jokingly respond with “None.” This is because the drinking age in the country is too young, and not only that, the laws regarding alcohol are very relaxed as well. Danish parents have indeed given their children a small sip of beer during lunch or dinner time, and they weren’t judged at all for doing that.
Legal Drinking Age in Denmark by Region
Just like the rest of Denmark, its capital, Copenhagen, requires you to be at least 16 or 18 years old when buying the alcoholic beverage of your choice. The rules are the same – 16 years old is for drinks with lesser alcohol content, and 18 is for harder kinds of liquor. Buying alcohol requires you to show your ID to the seller before making a purchase.
Can Minors Drink in Denmark with Their Parents?
There are official rules on what age a person is allowed to chug down alcohol in Denmark, but as mentioned, if your parents allow you a sip of beer or wine during dinner, nobody will judge them for it. Another acceptable way for minors to drink alcohol is through holy communion or during other religious ceremonies such as Confirmation.
Consequences of Breaking the Drinking Age Law in Denmark
Danish authorities are doing their very best to prevent rampant alcoholism in the country, and this includes imposing harsh punishments for alcohol-related crimes. The average fine that you have to pay if caught drinking and driving is DKK 43,487. Meanwhile, drinking in public is still acceptable in the country, but public intoxication garners a heavy fine as well.
Summarizing the Denmark Drinking Age Laws
Based on this topic, it’s no secret that the Danish enjoy their alcohol, and the legal drinking age in Denmark isn’t enough to prevent teenagers from enjoying their favorite liquor. If you are a tourist who wants to come to this country for a drink, be sure to do it responsibly and follow all of the proper rules – As these will help you throughout your trip.
I am a passionate beer connoisseur with a deep appreciation for the art and science of brewing. With years of experience tasting and evaluating various beers, I love to share my opinions and insights with others and I am always eager to engage in lively discussions about my favorite beverage.
