How to Buy the IMT Driving License
The Institute of Mobility and Transport recommends that you swap your license before it is lost or stolen if you're moving to Portugal from another EU member state. Here's how to do it.
A medical test is required to begin the process. This is a good thing - you can apply online and avoid waiting.
How do you apply
To obtain an IMT license, you'll have to complete a series of in theory and practical courses. The lessons are taught in government-licensed facilities and taught by certified instructors. It takes 28 hours of theory lessons and 32 practical lessons to complete the course. The cost of these classes differs however, you can save money by signing up with an agency that provides classes in groups for less than $100.
The next step is to take the test in theory (exame de codigo). This test can be taken online or at public institutions and lasts approximately 30 minutes. It consists of 30 multiple choice questions to answer using your computer. The questions are based on the syllabus you studied in your preparation classes. You must get 27 of the questions correct to pass the exam.
After passing the theory test, you will need to pass the practical test. You can take the test at private driving schools or at the IMT office. The test costs EUR30, and the IMT provides you with a temporary driving licence while you wait for your licence.
You must have an authentic passport or residence card, a medical certificate, and an attestation of your driving license from your country of origin. The embassy will also authenticate and notarize documents at a fee.
To exchange your foreign driver's permit for the Portuguese driving licence, you will need to visit the Institute for Mobility and Transport ("Instituto of Mobility and Transportes") office. The office is typically busy, so it is recommended that you go early. If Comprar a carta de condução do IMT , you should arrive an hour prior to the opening time.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes has launched an online platform that allows drivers to check when their driving license is due to renew. The platform can be used by both Portuguese and foreign citizens. It also provides information about road traffic regulations and rules.
Requirements
If you're a resident of Portugal it is essential to swap your driving license to one in Portuguese one as soon as possible. If you don't, you could be subject to heavy fines. The process is generally formal, so it's best to begin the process as when you have your residence permit. It's also important to inform the institute of mobility that you will be using your old license, as this is required by law.
You must visit an IMT with all the necessary documents. Bring your driver's license, proof of residence or residence card, as well as an examination for medical reasons. The IMT must enlist a physician to conduct the medical exam. The doctor will issue a certification specific to your license and forward it to the IMT via their online medical certificate platform.
You will then be able to take the practical driving test. This test usually lasts 40 to 50 minutes. You will be accompanied with an instructor, an examiner, and a third person taking the test. You'll be asked to drive from and back so be prepared for a long day!
If you're a citizen of a country that does not have a bilateral agreement then you'll have to provide an official translation. This should be done by the entity that issued it or the consular servisse. It must include the categories derived through an examination as well as those obtained through equivalent means. In addition, you'll require a psychological assessment certificate that must be signed by a licensed psychologist.
It is also necessary to provide a certified abstract of your driving record from the United States, which must be authenticated. Here is the list of authorities in the state who are authorized to provide this service. This document is vital to the process of getting a driving license, as it can take up to a month to get from the U.S. Furthermore, this process could be extended when the U.S. doesn't have a reciprocal arrangement with the European Union. It is also important to be aware that the IMT could be understaffed and the processing time could be long.
Fees
Getting your first driver's license is expensive. The cost of driving classes and the test on the road can be as high as EUR250. However, it's important to start the process as soon as you can so that you can receive your new licence before the deadline. You may be penalized for late payment if you fail to submit your application on time.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online service that allows citizens to get the certificate. The new service is an excellent alternative to visiting the IMT offices in person, and is a great idea for those who wish to cut down on time. The service is accessible to all drivers with a digital mobile key or citizen card. It lets them save 10% off the amount they'd have incurred at IMT offices. The certificate, which has new design, is valid for six months and can be verified by reading the QR CODE or verification code.
When you have all your documents in order, you are able to submit a request for the exchange of your driving license. You must provide the IMT with proof of driving history. This can be obtained from the government or from a private driving instructor. The embassy can help you with the process of obtaining this document, but you should make sure that the apostille has been placed on the document prior to sending it to the IMT.
If you are a resident of Portugal and a citizen of the EU or EEA you will need to exchange your driving licence to a Portuguese license within two years of having moved to Portugal. Along with your driving permit, you will need to bring an unissued title document from your country. The embassy will help you with legalizing your document.
The test for theory comprises 30 multiple-choice tests and lasts around 30 minutes. To pass, you must answer at least 27 of the 30 questions correctly. The questions are similar to those that are taught in preparation classes. The test is conducted in a car, with an instructor and another candidate taking the test.
Timeframe
If you're looking to exchange your driving license, be prepared to wait a long time. Depending on your country, you may need to provide additional documents. If you aren't sure the documents you require, it is best to look up the official website of the IMT.
The IMT has launched a brand new online service called "My Driving License" that lets you examine the status of your driving license and determine when it's time to renew. The IMT also offers an app on mobile that can help you get started with the process of changing your American drivers license to an Portuguese one.
You can also make use of the My Driving License platform to report theft or loss of your driving license. If you've lost or stolen your driving licence You must hand it over to the IMT. Once you have submitted the psychotechnical certificate you will be issued a new driving licence.
You will receive an email confirmation from the IMT after you've uploaded your documents. It could take a few days or weeks for them to process your application. Once they have processed it, they will notify you of the results via email or phone. If your driver's licence is not accepted, a document will be issued that will allow you drive (but only within Portugal). The IMT will mail you a new Portuguese driving license by post.
It's best to schedule an appointment with the IMT the moment you arrive in Portugal. You might have to wait for a long time if you don't schedule an appointment. Bring your ID card and your NIF number with you.