Police Stops and Identification
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Danish Acts of Parliament (love), executive orders (bekendtgørelser), and official government guidance.
Danish National Law
What is this right?
Danish police may stop you and ask questions, but your rights depend on whether the stop is a general inquiry or a formal measure:
- General questioning (§ 750): Police can approach anyone and ask questions. You are not obliged to answer and are free to walk away unless you are formally detained.
- Identification: There is no general duty to carry ID in Denmark. However, police may ask for your name, address, and date of birth if they have a reasonable basis for the request.
- Providing false identity is a criminal offence under the Criminal Code.
- Proportionality: Police actions must be proportionate, necessary, and as minimally intrusive as possible (Politiloven, § 4).
When does it apply?
- You are stopped by police on the street, in a vehicle, or at a public event.
- You are asked for your name or to answer questions.
- You are unsure whether you are free to leave.
What should you do?
- Stay calm and polite — cooperation avoids escalation.
- Ask if you are free to leave — if yes, you may walk away. If no, you are being detained and different rules apply.
- If lawfully asked, you must provide your name, date of birth, and address — but you are not obliged to answer substantive questions about any incident.
- If you believe the stop was unlawful, note the officer's badge number and file a complaint later.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't give a false name or date of birth — it is a criminal offence.
- Don't physically resist — even if you believe the stop is unjustified, resisting can lead to arrest.
- Don't assume you must answer all questions — you have the right to remain silent on substantive matters.
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