PoliceDenmark

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Denmark. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.


37. Police

Police are public authorities responsible for enforcing laws, maintaining public safety and managing situations that may affect road traffic. In traffic, police officers may control vehicles, enforce traffic rules, investigate collisions, direct traffic and respond to emergencies.

Road users must follow lawful instructions given by police officers or other authorised traffic-control personnel. Police directions may temporarily override traffic lights, road signs or normal traffic arrangements, depending on local law.

Central and West Jutland Police car displayed during an Open by Night event. (Herning, Denmark)
Wikimedia.org • Leif Jørgensen • CC BY-SA
What is the role of police in road traffic?

Police help enforce traffic law, investigate collisions and respond to risks on the road. For example, Greater Manchester Police describe targeted road enforcement, a round-the-clock roads-policing response and specialist serious-collision investigation. Exact responsibilities and powers vary by jurisdiction.

🔗 gmp.police.uk • Greater Manchester Police, Roads Policing Strategy2024–2026

Must you obey a police officer directing traffic?

Yes. Lawful directions given by an authorised police officer must be followed. In many countries, those directions take precedence over traffic lights, road signs and normal priority rules.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 5–6, authorised officials and directions; international framework subject to national law

What should you do if police signal you to stop?

Slow down, follow the officer's directions and stop at a safe location as instructed. Do not make sudden movements or continue driving unless directed to do so.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 5–6, authorised officials and directions; international framework subject to national law

1 Denmark 2 Motorway 3 Built-up area 4 Speed limit 5 Footpath 6 Bike path 7 Pedestrian zone 8 Bus stop 9 Give way 10 Roundabout 11 Railway crossing 12 Crossing animals 13 Wrong-way driving 14 Selective barriers 15 Traffic lights 16 Pedestrian lights 17 Road markings 18 Driving licence 19 Traffic mirror 20 International border 21 Cycling route 22 Parking 23 No parking 24 No stopping 25 Parallel parking 26 Parking meter 27 Parking disc 28 Disabled parking 29 Traffic management 30 Reversing 31 Emergency exit 32 Licence plate 33 Charging station 34 Dangers 35 Cyclist 36 Bus 37 Police 38 Ambulance 39 European emission standard 40 Pothole 41 Path 42 Particulates 43 Air pollution 44 Rush hour 45 Road code 46 Street gutter 47 Cargo bike 48 Forestry vehicle 49 Construction vehicle 50 Semi-trailer truck 51 Trolleybus 52 Speed pedelec 53 Delivery vehicle 54 Idling 55 Tow truck 56 Four-wheel drive 57 No vehicles 58 Bicycle 59 Motorcycle equipment 60 Tram 61 Rail track 62 Caravan 63 Trailer 64 Tow hitch 65 Fire truck 66 Siren 67 Convoy 68 Emergency vehicle lighting 69 Agricultural machinery 70 Electric bicycle 71 Electric vehicle 72 Pedelec 73 Quadricycle 74 Microcar 75 All-terrain vehicle 76 Van 77 Recreational vehicle 78 Scooter 79 Trikke 80 Personal mobility device 81 Skateboard 82 Segway 83 Kick scooter 84 Roller skates 85 Mailman 86 Hitchhiker 87 Toddler 88 Child 89 Disability 90 Commercial vehicle 91 Motorail 92 Garbage truck 93 Parking violation 94 km/h 95 mph 96 Speedometer 97 National speed 98 Ride height 99 Dirt road 100 Driving ...