How many driving lessons do you need?
To get a category B car driving licence in Denmark, you must complete at least 24 practical lessons of 45 minutes each. This equals 18 hours of practical instruction. If you start your driving course on or after 1 July 2026, you must also complete at least 30 theory lessons.
The short answer: 24 practical lessons is the minimum
When people ask how many driving lessons they need, it is useful to distinguish between a driving lesson and a full hour. Danish driving courses are measured in lessons of 45 minutes. The minimum requirement of 24 practical lessons therefore equals 18 hours measured by the clock.
The 24 lessons are the statutory minimum. They do not guarantee that every learner will be ready for the practical driving test after exactly 24 lessons. You and your instructor will assess whether you need more practice before it is safe and sensible to take the test.
You can learn more about the full course on our page about the category B car driving licence.
What do the rules from 1 July 2026 require?
The modernised category B driving course is divided into five modules. Each module builds on the previous one, allowing theory and practical instruction to progress together throughout the course.
At least 30 theory lessons
At least 24 practical lessons
Each lesson lasts 45 minutes
The course is divided into five modules
The course must cover at least 14 teaching days
The practical lessons cover basic control of the car, driving in traffic and exercises at approved closed driving facilities. Your module plan records what you have completed and which skills you have acquired.
The modular course also provides more continuous feedback. You do not progress simply because you have attended a fixed number of lessons. Your instructor must also confirm that you have achieved the required skills for each module.
Are 16 driving lessons enough?
No. Sixteen lessons are not the total minimum for a car driving licence. The number comes from the previous curriculum, in which 16 lessons were allocated specifically to driving on public roads. Learners also had to complete four lessons at a closed manoeuvring area and four lessons at a skid-control facility. The overall practical minimum was therefore 24 lessons.
For learners who start on or after 1 July 2026, the course is instead organised into five modules. It is therefore more accurate to consider all 24 practical lessons together, along with the skills you must acquire as you progress.
Transitional rules if you started before 1 July 2026
If you began your driving course before 1 July 2026, you can generally continue under the previous curriculum until 31 December 2026. If you have not completed the course and passed the required tests by the end of the year, your course must be transferred to the modernised system.
You will receive credit for the instruction you have already completed, but you may need to cover new subjects or parts of a module. If you are unsure which rules apply to your course, you can contact Brøndby Køreskole for guidance.
Why do some learners need extra driving lessons?
People learn at different speeds. Some are ready after completing the minimum course, while others need additional lessons before they can drive safely and independently. This may depend on:
how quickly you become comfortable controlling the car
whether observation, road positioning or right-of-way rules are challenging
how regularly you can attend driving lessons
whether you need more practice in heavy traffic, at night or on motorways
whether there are long gaps between your lessons
Additional lessons should focus on specific skills. If you can control the car confidently but find large junctions difficult, your extra practice should concentrate on observation, positioning and decision-making at junctions. This turns additional lessons into focused training rather than simply more time behind the wheel.
When can you take the theory test?
Under the modernised driving course, you can only take the category B theory test after modules 1, 2, 3 and 4 have been completed and approved by your instructor. You must have attended the required instruction and achieved the competencies covered by these modules.
Module 5 is the final part of the course. It includes the concluding practical instruction and exercises at a skid-control facility. You can only take the practical driving test after passing the theory test, completing all five modules and finishing every compulsory lesson.
How to get more value from your driving lessons
A consistent schedule makes it easier to build on what you have already learned. After a long break, part of your next lesson may be spent regaining confidence and routine. If your schedule allows, try to distribute theory and practical lessons fairly evenly.
After each lesson, ask your instructor two specific questions: What am I already doing well, and what should I focus on next time? Clear feedback makes your progress easier to follow and helps you understand how close you are to being ready for the test.
A traffic-related first aid course is also required when obtaining your first driving licence. You can find the course and other materials in the Brøndby Driving School shop. When you are ready to begin, see the available category B course dates.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum number of driving lessons in Denmark?
You must complete at least 24 practical lessons of 45 minutes each for a category B licence. This equals 18 hours of instruction. Learners starting on or after 1 July 2026 must also complete at least 30 theory lessons.
Are all 24 lessons conducted on public roads?
No. The 24 practical lessons cover the full practical course, including exercises at closed driving facilities and driving in normal traffic.
How long is a driving lesson in Denmark?
One lesson in the Danish driving course lasts 45 minutes. Two consecutive lessons therefore last 90 minutes.
Can you pass with only the compulsory driving lessons?
Yes, provided you have acquired the necessary skills and are ready for the practical test after completing the minimum course. If you need more practice to drive safely and independently, you should expect to take additional lessons.
How many lessons do you need before the theory test?
Under the rules introduced on 1 July 2026, eligibility is not determined by a single number of practical lessons. You must complete modules 1 to 4 and have them approved before taking the theory test.
How much do additional driving lessons cost?
The cost depends on the driving school's current rates and the number of additional lessons you need. See our current driving licence prices and packages.