The 2012 2. divisjon season began on 14 April 2012 and ended on 27 October 2012.
[2] The four group-winners, Elverum, Kristiansund, Vard Haugesund and Follo was promoted to the 1. divisjon, while the bottom three teams in each groups was relegated to the 3. divisjon.
Asker, Løv-Ham (replaced by Fyllingsdalen[notes 1][3][4]), Nybergsund-Trysil and Randaberg were relegated from the 2011 1. divisjon,[5] while Ullensaker/Kisa, Bærum, Notodden and Tromsdalen were promoted to the 2012 1. divisjon.
Tiller, Strindheim, Steinkjer, Herd, Jevnaker, Viking 2, Førde, Austevoll, Harstad, Hasle-Løren, Skarp along with Manglerud Star, who withdrew their team, were relegated from 2011 2.
Østsiden, Gjøvik FF, Grorud, Birkebeineren, Jerv, Egersund,[notes 2][6] Brann 2, Fana, Træff, Buvik, Mo and Finnsnes were promoted from 2011 3.