Alcohol Regulations in Denmark

Alcohol consumption is legally permitted in Denmark, subject to certain regulations and age restrictions. The minimum legal drinking age in Denmark is 16 years. But, as the situation may be a little more complicated than this, please read the whole page carefully.

If you want to get a quick overview taking into accord your actual age or any other country, please check out the main page.

Personal Checker

In Denmark, regulations for purchasing alcohol differ between retail establishments (shops) and restaurants/bars:

Buying Alcohol in Shops

In Denmark, the minimum legal age to purchase alcohol varies by beverage type:

• For beer, you must be at least 16 years old.
• For wine, you must be at least 16 years old.
• For spirits, you must be at least 18 years old.

Drinking Alcohol in Restaurants

The minimum legal age to get served any alcoholic beverage in restaurants or bars in Denmark is 18 years.

Beverages with alcohol content below 16.5% can be purchased at age 16, while stronger alcohol requires age 18. For on-premise purchases the legal age is 18. Those rules apply for buying alcohol; there are no rules for actually drinking it.

For more detailed information about alcohol regulations in Denmark, please visit the official government website or consult local authorities.

• These regulations may be subject to change. Information on this page was last updated on 14.04.2025.
• Local regulations may apply in certain regions or municipalities within Denmark.
• Always carry valid identification that proves your age when purchasing alcohol.
• Never drink and drive.

This information is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, or suitability of the information.