Buy the IMT Driving License Online
The most effective way to go about it should you be planning to change your driving license in Portugal is to start the process as quickly as you receive your residency card. This will help you save time and effort.
There are some conditions you have to be able to meet, for example, attending classes and passing an examination for medical reasons. But don't worry - the medical exam is not as complicated as it appears.
Requirements
If you are planning to relocate to Portugal and are planning to move there, it is crucial to switch your foreign driving license for one in the Portuguese one as soon as you can. This will ensure that you have an authentic driver's license in case your car is stolen or lost. You can exchange your license at the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT) offices. The process is quite easy, but you'll require a number of documents with you. This includes a medical test and a translation of your driver's license from a foreign country. You can hire a translator from lingoking to help you with this task.
You will also have to pass a driving theory test and complete a practical lesson. These lessons are provided in driving centers that are accredited by the government. On the IMT's website you can find a complete list of these driving centers. The theory test costs 30 euros and the practical driving test costs an additional 40 euros. You may be required to take an exam specifically designed for vehicles such as buses and other large passenger vehicles.
The IMT's website has information on how to change a foreign driving license in Portugal. There are different rules for each country, therefore it's essential to check the IMT's website prior to making a move. Expats from the United States, for example have to present a proof of equivalence from their home state.

The IMT will require your identification card or passport before allowing you to change your driving license. It will also need to see a certified copy of your driving record. You can obtain an official copy from your state of residence, or from a public notary. The notary public will charge fees for their services.
Fees
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has today launched a brand new online service that will allow citizens to obtain their driving license certificate. To be able to use the service drivers must have their digital mobile key or citizen card and access the IMT's "My Driving License" portal. Once they have registered, the license can be issued either in Portuguese or English. It is valid for a period of six months. The authenticity of the certificate can be confirmed by scanning the QR code or entering the verification code.
Once you've completed the form, wait for the IMT's indication to go to one of their desks to register your application and provide your biometric information. You will also be required to pay an exam fee which IMT will inform you about in the future.
It is important to remember that the process may take a while, particularly because the US has no system that automatically exchanges documents such as driver's licences with Portugal. Once you submit your documentation it could take several weeks for IMT to examine it and return it to you.
Make sure to label the documents that you send to IMT with your name and contact details. You should also scan all documents before sending to ensure that you are able to find them easily in the event of need. If you have multiple family members applying for the license, make sure to label each document with a distinct name to avoid confusion. This will help you save time and avoid delays.
Timeframe
If you arrive in Portugal with an original driving licence issued by a country that is a signatory of the international road transport convention, you may exchange it within 60 days to get a Portuguese driver's license. You can do this online or at an IMT desk. To do this you will need to show a proof of identity and the completed Modelo 10 IMT form. You also need to sign up on the IMT site using your taxpayer number and password.
People who are transferring their licenses with countries outside of the EU will be required to pay additional fees. For example, if you have a US license and want to drive in the US, you must get an abstract from the state authorities, along with a doctor's note which states that you are fit enough to drive. A doctor will conduct the medical exam. He will ask you general health questions and perform a summary neurologic test.
The entire process can be long, but it's well worth it in the end. It's also a good idea to get your license as soon as possible, so that it doesn't get lost or stolen.
If you're applying for a license, make sure to scan and save each document in a separate manner. If possible, give each file a distinct name to avoid confusion. IMT will send you an email confirmation after you've submitted your application. It will inform you of the status of your application. You will also be provided with an appointment to take the driving test at IMT.
Practical lessons
The driving lessons are held in licensed government-approved centers and are only supervised by certified instructors. The learning time is between 28 and 32 hours. You will need to take both theory classes and practical ones and pass both before you can book your test. The test is conducted at the same location that you took your theory test, so you should be familiar with the surroundings by now. The exam is 30 questions long and you're allowed to make up to three mistakes. The questions are based off the syllabus you were taught in your preparation classes. The tests are not conducted on the internet, but you can download the syllabus and test the questions on various websites.
You can also choose a private institute to take the exam However, it is important to remember that these are subject to the availability of dates and professionals. You'll also be required to pay EUR30 and present a medical certification stating your fitness to drive. Renewals can also require an eye test. You'll be issued your license via mail after passing the exam.
On the IMT's website you will also find a list of centers that are certified. It is crucial to ensure that the center has an instructor who is competent. If you're not satisfied with the quality of the instructor, don't hesitate to seek a replacement. The instructor will help you get through the practical driving test by guiding you on how to maneuver the car and navigate traffic. You'll also have to learn about the highway code and road signs in Portugal. The cost of driving lessons in Portugal varies from center to center. Check prices on the IMT website to find the most affordable price.
Theory test
The Institute of Mobility and Transport offers both practical and theory-based driving classes.
Comprar carta de condução da categoria A can only issue a driving license after passing both a theory and practical exam. It is also necessary to get a certificate of a favorable psychological evaluation. The theoretical exam, or "exame de codigo," consists of 30 questions to be completed correctly within 35 minutes. It can be found at IMT or in private examination centers. If you're a foreigner you can ask the IMT to translate the questions into English for you.
The practical driving test called the "exame de velocidade" is between 40 and 50 minutes. It involves a test ride through a city road. You will be evaluated by the examiner and the instructor. If you pass the practical test then the IMT will issue a license to you via mail.
To pass the practical and theoretical exams you must take at least 28 of your theoretical classes and 16 practical classes. You can also choose to take your theoretical test before you have completed the required number of practical classes. You'll have to pay separately for the practical classes.
You can hire a car from a driving school if you do not want to invest the money for a brand new vehicle. You can test your driving skills without worrying about the expense of a new vehicle. Be sure to investigate all the schools in your area and choose the most suitable one. Make sure you know the insurance policy of the vehicle you're planning to rent prior making a reservation. If you don't have the appropriate insurance, the rental company may deny your claim.