Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're not a European citizen and are new to Portugal, it's important to exchange your foreign driver's license as soon as possible. If you don't do it, your license could be confiscated or even cancelled.
To complete your exchange you'll need the following documents: a photo ID and an completed IMT Modelo 13 form, and proof of residence. You may require an examination for medical reasons.
Cost
The cost of buying the IMT driving license is based on whether you decide to take the theory test in person or online. In person, the test costs EUR15 and takes 30 minutes. It is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions that cover the syllabus that you've learned in your preparatory classes. The test is offered in Portuguese or English. The IMT website has a list of private centers that offer the test.
The IMT provides online services to replace lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website allows users to make a request for replacement and receive a digital certificate. You can then show the certificate to an officer station to receive a new license within eight weeks. Additionally, you can submit your request to an IMT desk in person. You will need an ID document like a citizen card, taxpayer number, passport or residence permit and an completed Modelo 10 IMT form.
It's important to exchange your foreign driver's license to one that is a Portuguese one immediately after moving to Portugal. You'll be protected from paying heavy fines in the event that your driver's license from abroad is lost or stolen. Additionally, you should get your new Portuguese license before the validity of your current one expires.
You can submit your application online or in person at an IMT office. In-person visits are the most common for complex applications such as those involving the exchanging of foreign licenses. In-person meetings may require additional documents, for example, an official translation of your foreign license or a copy of your home country's ruling body.

Unlike systems in other countries unlike other countries, the US does not have a central database of driving licenses. It could take IMT longer to verify your driver's licence. You can avoid this issue by asking IMT to extend the temporary paper driver's licence if it is about to expire.
The process of changing your US driver's license to a Portuguese license is a complicated and long. You must be prepared with all the necessary documents prior to visiting an IMT branch. Also, you should bring cash if the branch does not accept credit cards. A good suggestion is to download an app called SIGA on your phone that will let you know the number of people being dealt with and how long you'll have to wait.
Requirements
A foreign driver's license can be exchanged for a Portuguese driving license without taking the Portuguese driving test. However, the process can be a long one. In addition to preparing your documentation and preparing your documents, you might also have to take classes for preparation and the theory test at IMT or a private exam center. You must have completed 32 hours of instruction in practical classes and 28 hours of theory to be able to pass your driving test. These lessons are taught at government-approved centers. These centers are listed on the website of the IMT. The length of the lessons is contingent on your availability and performance.
In order to transfer your foreign driver's license you must submit an abstract of your driving record from the state where you had your last residence in the United States. The document must be apostilled or stamped to be valid when included in your application to IMT. The embassy can authenticate this certificate for you. You can bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply online or at an IMT office near you. The online method is easier and less stressful. However, you'll need an identification document such as a citizen card or taxpayer number to submit an application. If you're exchanging a foreign license, you'll also require your passport or resident permit.
The IMT offers a new service which lets drivers request duplicate driving licenses online. This new service is convenient and could save your time and money. The IMT has created a portal that allows drivers upload their documents and even provide an image.
Additionally, the institute gives the possibility to have an automatic notification when it's the appropriate time to renew your driving licence. The IMT will also tell you when your driving permit expires and the best way to renew it.
Time frame
Getting your driving license to drive in Portugal is a long process. The IMT can take up 30 days to process your request and can take even longer if you are applying during peak times. While you wait, you can still drive with your foreign license or temporary permit.
You can check the status of an application online and monitor the progress of an application. However certain applications require a personal visit. In certain cases, you can submit the necessary documents from your country of origin. This will make the process much quicker.
It's crucial to apply as quickly as you can if you want to exchange your EU driving license.
Comprar a carta de condução do IMT will help prevent your license from being lost or stolen while you wait for it to be processed. It is also important to get an Portuguese licence before traveling abroad. The IMT will not be able to replace your EU license if it is lost or stolen in another country.
After you've submitted your application, you'll have to undergo a medical examination. This is a straightforward test to determine if you're mentally able to operate an automobile. This test doesn't contain stress tests or bloodwork therefore it's simple to pass. The IMT website provides an official list of physicians who are approved for this test.
After you've passed your medical exam and passed the medical exam, you can begin studying for the practical and theory tests. The theory test can be taken at the IMT, or at a private exam centre. You must have attended your preparatory courses prior to the exam. The practical test can be taken either separately or in conjunction with the theory exam. If you decide to take the practical test in conjunction with the theory test it is essential to ensure that you have your preparation class certificate at the time of the test. Otherwise, you'll have to take the exam again at a later time.
Insurance
If you are planning to relocate to Portugal in the near future, it is recommended to exchange your driver's licence immediately. Failure to do so can result in fines as well as a delay of your residence permit. It is best to exchange your residence permit within 90 days.
Before you can exchange your old license to the Portuguese license, you'll need an authentic Certificate of Authenticity. This document can be obtained at the embassy of your country or consular services in Portugal.
You'll have to pass a medical test. This exam is not as difficult as you think. It's a combination of bloodwork and a check-up to make sure you can safely drive. A doctor from a medical network can conduct this exam costing around EUR25.