How to Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're planning to move to Portugal from another EU country The Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) recommends exchanging your license prior to the risk of it getting lost or stolen. Here's how to do it.
The procedure involves an examination for medical reasons. This is a good thing - you can apply online and save time.
How to Apply
To obtain an IMT license, you will need to take a series in theory and practical courses. These lessons are taken in government-licensed facilities and taught by certified instructors. It takes 28 hours of theory and 32 practical lessons to complete the course. The cost of these classes is different, but you can save money by joining an agency that offers group lessons for less than EUR100.
The next step is to take the test in theory (exame de codigo). This test can be taken on the internet or at public institutions and lasts around 30 minutes. It consists of 30 multiple choice questions that you must answer on a computer. The questions are based off the syllabus you were taught in your preparatory classes. To pass the test, you must answer 27 questions correctly.
After passing the theory exam and passed the theory test, you will need to take a test in the practical. You can take the test at a private driving school or at the IMT office. The test costs $30, and the IMT will issue you with a a temporary driver's licence to use while you wait for your new license.
You must have a valid passport or residence card, medical certificate, and an attestation of your driving license from your country of origin. The embassy can also authenticate and notarize documents for an additional fee.
To exchange your foreign driver's license for the Portuguese driving licence, you will need to go to the Institute for Mobility and Transport ("Instituto of Mobility and Transportes") office. The office is usually very busy, and it is recommended to go early. You should arrive at least an hour before the office opens.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes launched an online platform that allows drivers to check their driving license renewal due date. The platform is available to both Portuguese and non-Portuguese citizens. It also provides information on road traffic rules and regulations.
Requirements
If you're a resident of Portugal it is crucial to exchange your driving licence for a Portuguese one whenever you can. Otherwise, you'll be facing massive fines. It is best to start this process as soon as you are able after receiving your residence permit. It's also important to inform the institute of mobility that you'll use your previous license, as this is required by law.
You must visit an IMT with all required documents. Bring your driver's license and proof of residence and residence card, as well as a medical examination. The IMT must register a physician to conduct the medical examination. The doctor will issue a certification specific to your license and send it to the IMT through their online medical certificate platform.
The next step is the practical driving test. The test takes between 40 and 50 minutes. You will be accompanied by an instructor, the examiner and another person who is taking the test. You'll be required to drive from and back, so be prepared for a long day!
If you're from a nation without a bilateral arrangement then you'll have to provide a certified translation. This must be done either by the entity that issued the license or by the consular service. It should contain the categories that were derived through examination and those obtained through equivalence. In addition, you'll need a psychological assessment certificate that must be signed by an authorized psychologist.
You will also need to provide an authenticated certified abstract of your United States driving record. You can find the list of states that are authorised to perform this service here. This document is vital to the process of obtaining a driving license, as it can take up to a month for it to be received from the U.S. The process can take longer if there's no reciprocal agreement between the U.S. and the European Union. You should also be aware that the IMT can be understaffed and the processing time can be lengthy.
Fees
The first time you get your driver's license can be expensive. The cost of driving lessons and the practical test can be up to EUR250. However, it is important to start the process as soon as you can so that you can receive your new driving license before the deadline. You could be penalized for a late fee in the event that you do not submit your application by the deadline.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online service that allows citizens to get an official certificate. This new service is a great alternative to going to IMT offices and is ideal for those who are looking to cut down on time. The service is accessible to anyone who has a citizen card or mobile key, and permits drivers to save 10% of the fee that they would otherwise pay at the IMT offices. The certificate, which is designed with a a new layout and is valid for six months and can be verified by scanning the QR CODE or verification code.
When
Comprar a carta de condução do IMT have all your documents in order, you are able to submit the request for the exchange of a driving license. The IMT requires that you provide an account of your driving record. This can be obtained from the government or from a private driving instructor. The embassy can assist in obtaining this document, but you should make sure that the apostille is on the document before sending it to the IMT.
If you are a resident of an EU or EEA country, you must change your driving licence to a Portuguese one within two years after establishing residency in the country. You will need to provide a lost title certificate from your country of origin along with your driving license. The embassy can assist you in obtaining a legalisation of your document.
The test for theory is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions and lasts approximately 30 minutes. You must answer at least 27 questions right to pass. The questions are the same as those that are taught in preparation classes. The test is conducted in a vehicle with an instructor and an applicant.
Timeframe
Be prepared to wait for a a long period of time if you wish to exchange your licence. Depending on your country you might need to provide additional documents. If you're not sure what documents you'll need, you should check the IMT website.
The IMT has launched a new service called "My Driving License." This platform online lets you check the status of your driver's license and determine when it is time for you to renew. The IMT also offers a mobile app that helps you begin the process of changing your American drivers license to one in Portugal. Portuguese one.

You can also report the loss or theft of your license using the My Driving License platform. If you've lost your license, you'll have to hand it over at the IMT. You will be issued a replacement after you've submitted the psychotechnical certificate.
Once you have uploaded all your required documents, you will receive an email from the IMT confirming that they have received your application. It may take some days or weeks for them to review your application. After they have processed your application you will be informed of the results by email or by phone. If your driver's license is not accepted, a certificate will be issued to allow you drive (but only within Portugal). The IMT will mail you a new Portuguese driving license via post.
If you are arriving in Portugal it is best to make an appointment with the IMT. It is possible to wait for a while if you do not make an appointment. Bring your ID card and your NIF number.