Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're not a European citizen and are new to Portugal it is crucial to transfer your driver's license from another country as soon as you can. If you do not then, your license could be confiscated or canceled.
You'll require the following documents to complete your exchange: ID and a completed IMT Modelo 13 application, and proof of residence. You may require a medical examination.
Cost
The cost of an IMT driving licence varies based on if you take the test online or in person. The test costs $15 in person and takes 30 minutes. The test is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions that are based on the syllabus you learned in preparation classes. The test is available in Portuguese or English. The IMT website lists private centers that provide this exam.
The IMT also provides an online service for replacing lost or stolen drivers' licenses. The website lets citizens submit their request and receive an electronic certificate. Then, you can take the certificate to an officer station to obtain a new license within eight weeks. Additionally, you can submit your request to an IMT desk in person. You'll need an ID document like a citizen card, taxpayer number, passport or residence permit and an completed Modelo 10 IMT form.
After moving to Portugal it is crucial that you exchange your foreign driving license to one that is a Portuguese driver's license as soon as you are able. You'll be protected from heavy fines in the event that your foreign driver's license gets stolen or lost. You should also get your new Portuguese driving license before your old one expires.
You can submit your application online or in person at an IMT office. However the in-person visit is more common for complex applications that require the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings may require additional documents, like an official translation of your foreign license or the copy of your country's the governing body.
The US does not have a central database for driving licenses unlike other countries. It can take IMT longer to verify your driver's licence. Comprar carta de condução da categoria A can prevent this issue by asking IMT to extend the temporary paper driver's licence in the event that it is soon to expire.
The process of converting your US driver's license for one in Portuguese one can be confusing and lengthy. You must prepare all of the necessary documentation prior to going to an IMT office and carry cash in case the office isn't able to accept credit cards. Download the SIGA app on your phone to see how many people will be dealt with at any given moment.
Requirements
A foreign driver's license may be exchanged for an Portuguese driving license without taking the Portuguese driving test. However, the process could be lengthy. You may need to arrange your documents, but you will be required to attend preparatory classes and pass the test in theory either at IMT or privately. To pass the driving test you must have completed 28 hours of theory and 32 practical ones. The lessons are held in government-approved centres. You can find a list of these centers on the IMT website. The duration of the classes is contingent on your availability and improvement.
In order to exchange your foreign driver's licence you must submit an abstract of your driving record from the state of your last residence in the United States. This document needs to be apostilled/stamped in order to be valid in your application for IMT. The embassy will verify the certificate. You can bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply online or in an IMT office close to you. It's faster and less stressful. You'll need an identification document, such as your taxpayer number or citizenship card, to submit a request. If you are transferring the driver's license of a foreign country you will also need to bring your passport or resident permit.
The IMT offers a new service that lets drivers request a duplicate driving license online. This new option can save time and money, and it is more efficient than visiting an IMT office in person. The IMT has created a portal that allows drivers upload their documents and even upload an image.
The institute also provides the option of receiving an automated notification when it is the right time to renew your driving licence. Besides that, the IMT also informs you of the expiration date of your driving licence as well as how to renew it.
Time frame
Obtaining your driving license to drive in Portugal can be a lengthy process. It can take as long as 30 days for the IMT to approve your application and longer during high-demand times. While you wait you can drive with a foreign license or a temporary permit.
The IMT's online portal allows you to view the status of your application as well as track your progress, but some applications require an in-person visit. In certain cases, you can submit the required documents directly from your country of origin. This will make the process much quicker.
It's crucial to apply as quickly as you can when you're looking to exchange your EU driving license. This will prevent your license from being stolen or lost while you wait for it to be processed. It is also crucial to obtain a Portuguese license before traveling abroad, since the IMT won't be able to replace your EU license if it gets lost or stolen in another country.
Once you've completed your application, a medical exam is required. This is a simple test to ensure that you're mentally able to operate the vehicle. It doesn't include tests for stress or bloodwork which makes it simple to pass. The IMT website contains an approved list of doctors for this exam.
Once you've passed your medical exam, you can then start studying for the practical and theory exams. The theory test can be conducted at the IMT, or at a private exam center. You must have completed your preparatory classes first. The practical test can be taken either separately or as a part of the theory exam. If you decide to take the theory test and the practical exam together, you'll need your certificate of the preparation class along with you. Otherwise, you'll have to take the test again at a later time.
Insurance
If you're planning to relocate to Portugal be sure to get your driver's license exchanged in the earliest time possible. Failure to do so can result in fines as well as a delay in the issuance of your residence permit. It is best to exchange your residence permit within 90 days.
Before you can exchange your old license for the Portuguese license, you will need to obtain the Certificate of Authenticity. This document can be obtained from the Embassy of your country, or through consular services in Portugal.
You'll also need to pass a medical test. Fortunately, this test isn't as extensive as you might think. It's a combination of bloodwork and a check-up to make sure you can safely drive. This exam costs EUR25 and is conducted by a physician from an organization that deals with medical issues.