No new year without new rules. 2025 is no exception. It will generally be more expensive to be a driver in the new year, says FDM.
New rules for drivers in 2025 will come into effect and affect several areas that they must deal with. A number of new requirements and rules will apply from the beginning of the year. While others will be introduced later in the year.
From 2025, Danish municipalities can establish so-called zero-emission zones in urban areas. In these zones, only electric and hydrogen cars will be allowed.
FDM has criticized the initiative, as most cars in Denmark still run on gasoline or diesel. The ban could lead to restrictions for many drivers and has been criticized for being more symbolic than effective for the environment.
Another measure is higher taxes on gasoline and diesel, which have already come into effect. The price of gasoline has increased by 23 cents per liter, which increases the cost by approximately 293 DKK annually for drivers who drive 20,000 km.
For diesel drivers, the tax changes are more complex, as the increase of DKK 1.05 per liter is partially offset by a reduced equalization tax.
The requirement for winter tires is also new in 2025. This includes winter tires and certain all-season tires, while summer tires in winter conditions could result in a fine of DKK 1,000 per tire. The rule aims to improve road safety in winter conditions.
From 2025, drivers will face a new green flashing light in traffic. The flashing light is being introduced as a trial and is intended to help volunteer lifeguards, such as cardiac runners, move through traffic faster.
Young drivers will also have new opportunities. Starting this year, 17-year-olds can drive a car without an accompanying person. However, only between 5:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. This change is motivated by a desire to strengthen mobility for the youngest drivers.
It has also become cheaper to pay for the passage over the Great Belt Bridge when paying by card or cash. This is intended to simplify the payment process and reduce costs for drivers.
A change in the driving license rules means that the 3-year rule for renewing driving licenses will be removed. This makes it easier for drivers to maintain valid driving licenses without frequent renewals.
Several initiatives aim to improve the environment and make transportation safer. At the same time, some regulations and taxes increase costs for drivers, which can cause challenges, especially for those with gasoline and diesel cars.
As drivers navigate the new rules in 2025, it's important to understand the details to avoid penalties and adapt to the changing conditions. Rules such as winter tire requirements, emission zones, and changed taxes will be among the most significant elements of the year.
