Buy the IMT Driving License

If you are a non-EU national and new to Portugal it is recommended that you change your driving license from a foreign country as soon as is possible. If you don't do it, your license could be confiscated or cancelled.

To complete your exchange you'll need to provide the following documents: an ID, an completed IMT Modelo 13 form, and proof of residency. You may be required to undergo an examination for medical reasons.

Cost

The cost of buying the IMT driving license varies depending on whether you want to take the test in person or online. The test costs $15 in person and lasts for 30 minutes. The test consists of 30 multiple-choice questions that test the syllabus you were taught in preparation classes. The test is conducted in Portuguese However, you can also choose to translate it into English. The IMT website lists private centers that offer this test.

The IMT also offers an online service for replacement of lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website allows citizens to submit their request and receive a digital certificate. You can then show the certificate at a police station to receive an alternative license within eight weeks. In addition, you may submit your request at an IMT desk in person. You'll require an ID document, such as a citizen card or taxpayer number, residence permit or passport, and an completed Modelo 10 IMT form.

It's important to exchange your driver's license for one in Portugal. Portuguese one as soon as you can after moving to Portugal. You will be protected from paying heavy penalties if your foreign driver's license is lost or stolen. Also, you should get your new Portuguese driving license before your old one expires.

You can submit your request online or in person at a IMT office. However the in-person visit is more frequent for applications that are complex that require the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings can require additional documentation, such as a translated foreign license or a copy from your home country.

In contrast to other countries unlike other countries, the US has no central database of driving licenses. It can take IMT longer to verify your driver's licence. You can prevent this issue by asking IMT for an extension of the temporary paper driver's licence when it is due to expire.

The process of converting your US driver's license for one in Portuguese one can be a bit confusing and time-consuming. You need to prepare all the necessary documentation prior to going to an IMT office and bring cash in case the office does not accept credit cards. A good tip is to download an application called SIGA on your phone that will let you know the number of people being handled and how long you'll need to wait.

Requirements

You can exchange a foreign driving license to one that is a Portuguese license without the need to pass the Portuguese driving test. However, the process can be lengthy. You may need to arrange your documents, but you will also need to attend preparation classes and pass the theory test at IMT or privately. To pass the driving test, you must have completed 28 hours of theory lessons and 32 practical ones. These lessons are taught in government-approved centers. You can find the locations on the IMT website. The duration of the classes is contingent on your availability as well as your improvement.

To exchange your foreign driver's license you must provide an abstract of your driving records from the state where you resided the last time in the United States. The document must be apostilled or stamped in order to be valid in your application to IMT. The embassy will verify the certificate. You can bring it along to your appointment in person with IMT.

You can apply for a driving license certificate online or in person at the IMT office in your city. The online process is more convenient and less stressful. You'll need to provide an identification document, such as your taxpayer number or citizenship card, in order to make your request. If you're exchanging a foreign driver's license, you will also need to bring your passport or resident permit.

The IMT offers a new service which permits drivers to request duplicate driving licenses online. This new service can save time and money, and is more efficient than visiting an IMT office in person. The IMT created a portal that allows drivers upload their documents and even provide an image.

In addition, the institute provides the possibility of receiving an automatic notification when it's the right moment to renew the driving licence. Additionally the IMT also informs you about the expiration date of your driving licence as well as how to renew it.

Time frame

The process of obtaining your driving license in Portugal isn't easy and can take a long time. The IMT can take up 30 days to process your application, and even longer if you apply during peak times. While you wait you can drive using your foreign license or temporary permit.

You can check the status of your application online and monitor its progress. However certain applications require a personal visit. In certain instances, you can submit the required documents directly from your home country. This will make the process much faster.

If you're attempting to exchange your EU driver's license, you must do so in the earliest time possible. Cartao Expresso De Portugal Links to an external site. will help prevent your license being lost or stolen while you wait for it to be processed. It's also essential to get a Portuguese license prior to traveling to another country, as the IMT won't be able to replace your EU license if it's stolen or lost in another country.

After you've submitted your application, you'll be required to undergo a medical examination. This is a simple test to ensure that you're mentally fit to operate the vehicle. The test doesn't include stress tests or blood tests therefore it's easy to pass. The IMT website has an approved list of doctors for this exam.


After you have passed your medical test, you can start preparation for both the practical and theory examinations. The theory test can be taken at the IMT or a private examination center, but you must have completed your preparation classes before taking it. The practical test can be taken independently or in conjunction with the theory exam. If you choose to take the test in conjunction with the theory test, you must make sure that you have your preparation class certificate at the time of the test. You'll need to retake the test if you don't.

Insurance

If you're planning to relocate to Portugal and want to move there, you must get your driver's license exchanged in the earliest time possible. In the event of delay, it could result in a fine or delay in getting your residence permit. It is also recommended to complete the change within 90 days of receiving your residency permit.

If you're an EU resident or not, you must get a Certificate of Authentication for your old license before changing it to an Portuguese one. This document is available from your country's embassy or consular services in Portugal.

You'll also have to pass a medical examination. Fortunately, this test isn't as lengthy as you think. It's a combination of bloodwork and a check-up to make sure that you are able to drive safely. This exam costs EUR25 and is conducted by a physician from a medical group.