When you apply to get or renew your driver's license, the authorities in many cases require a certificate from a doctor. This certificate confirms that you meet the health requirements to drive a car. Read on to get answers to your questions and to be ready for your next doctor's appointment.
When you apply for a driver's license or need to renew your current one, a medical certificate will often be necessary to ensure that you are medically fit to drive safely. During this examination, the doctor will take several health aspects into account:
Your reflexes and ability to perform precise movements can be assessed to ensure that you can react quickly and correctly in traffic.
The doctor will ask about:
Although not as critical as eyesight, good hearing can contribute to safer driving, as it helps you perceive horns, sirens, and other warnings.
This may include a check of your blood pressure, heart function, or other relevant tests, depending on your age and health history.
It is important to remember that the purpose of this certificate is not to prevent you from driving, but rather to ensure that everyone who drives on the roads does so safely and without undue risk to themselves or others. If you have any questions or concerns, it is always a good idea to discuss them with your doctor.
From July 1, 2025, driver's license certificates must, as a starting point, be completed digitally via borger.dk and sent to your own doctor. If you would instead like us at Doctors in Denmark to create the certificate, you must follow this guide:
If you have any questions, you are always welcome to contact us – but remember: You must have permission from the municipality before booking an appointment.
Obtaining a driver's license is not just about being able to drive a car; it is also about being able to do it safely. When a doctor assesses whether you are fit to hold a driver's license, they take into account many aspects of your health. If you do not pass this assessment, it may feel disappointing, but it is important to remember that the decision is made in everyone's best interest. Here is what can happen and what you can do:
If you feel that the initial assessment was not correct or fair, you have the right to seek a second opinion. You can contact another general practitioner or a specialist, depending on the specific health concern raised.
In some cases, your health problem may not necessarily prevent you from driving, but may require certain precautions. For example, if your eyesight is not optimal, you can get a certificate that is only valid when you drive with glasses or contact lenses. Other conditions may include restrictions on driving time or the distance you can drive, especially if fatigue is a concern.
For some individuals, a traditional driving test may not accurately assess their ability to drive safely. In such cases, you may be asked to take a specialized test that takes into account your specific needs or limitations. This test will typically be monitored by an expert in the field and will be designed to ensure that even if you may have certain health challenges, you can still drive safely under certain conditions.
According to the latest legislation, in many cases, a medical certificate is no longer required to renew your driving license. However, there are some important details you should be aware of:
Previously time-limited driving license
If your driving license has previously been issued with a time limit due to health reasons, you will still need to provide a medical certificate upon renewal.
For most others
If your driving license does not have a time limitation for health reasons, you can easily renew your driving license at Citizen Service without having to present a medical certificate.
Validity period for older driving licenses
If your driving license was issued before January 19, 2013, it is typically valid until you turn 70. When you reach this age, you must renew your driving license to continue driving.
Your responsibility
It is important to emphasize that it is your own responsibility to ensure that you renew your driving license in time. It is not enough just to remember the expiration date; you should also be aware of any health changes that may affect your ability to drive safely.
Although the legislation has now become more flexible regarding the requirement for a medical certificate, it is important that you are always aware of your health conditions and their potential impact on your ability to drive safely. If in doubt, it is always recommended to consult with your doctor. Safety should always be your top priority.
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When you feel ready, feel free to book an appointment for your driving license medical certificate with us. We look forward to helping you safely on the roads!
A driving license certificate is a medical assessment of whether you are medically fit to drive a car safely. It ensures that no known medical conditions prevent you from safely participating in traffic.
No, not necessarily. A medical certificate is no longer required to renew your driving license unless your driving license has previously been issued with a time limit for health reasons. If your driving license was issued before January 19, 2013, it typically applies until you turn 70. After that, it must be renewed.
Typically, you will be able to get your certificate immediately after your consultation, but it's always a good idea to ask your doctor about the expected waiting time.
To make the process as smooth as possible, you should bring a valid photo ID, your current driver's license (if you have one), and any documentation of medical conditions or treatments you are undergoing. If you are unsure, you can always contact the doctor's office in advance for an exact list of required documents.