Is Applying Makeup While Driving Legal in Denmark After the 2026 Law Changes?

No. Applying makeup while driving in Denmark violates traffic safety laws under the Færdselsloven (Road Traffic Act), as it constitutes distracted driving. The Danish Road Safety Council (Rådet for Sikker Trafik) and the police actively enforce this under § 5(1) of the Act, citing increased collision risks. Fines range from DKK 1,000 to DKK 2,000, with potential license suspension for repeat offenses.

Key Regulations for Applying Makeup While Driving in Denmark

  • Distracted Driving Prohibition: § 5(1) of Færdselsloven explicitly bans any activity diverting attention from driving, including personal grooming. The Danish Transport Authority (Trafikstyrelsen) interprets this to include makeup application.
  • Police Enforcement Priorities: Since 2023, Danish police have intensified patrols targeting distracted driving, with makeup use flagged as a primary violation. Dashcam footage or witness reports often suffice for citations.
  • 2026 Compliance Shifts: Upcoming amendments to the Færdselsloven will expand distracted driving penalties to include “secondary tasks” like makeup, aligning with EU-wide road safety directives. Drivers must now anticipate stricter enforcement.

Violations are documented under the Straffeloven (Criminal Code) if deemed reckless, with potential civil liability for accidents caused by distraction. The burden of proof lies with the driver to demonstrate they were not impaired by the act.