How to Buy the IMT Driving License
The Institute of Mobility and Transport recommends that you swap your license before it gets lost or stolen if you are moving to Portugal from an EU member state. Here's how you can do it.
A medical test is required to begin the process. Here's the good news - you can apply online and avoid waiting.
How to apply
To get an IMT license, you will need to take a series theory and practical lessons. These classes are taught by experienced instructors in government-licensed centres. The course consists of 28 hours of theory and 32 hours of hands-on lessons. The cost of these lessons differs however, you can save money by joining an agency that provides group lessons for less than $100.
The next step is to take the test in theory (exame de codigo). This test is offered online and at public institutions and lasts about 30 minutes. The exam consists of 30 multiple choice questions that you have to answer with computers. The questions are based on the syllabus you learned in your preparation classes. To pass the test, you have to answer correctly 27 questions.
Once you have passed the theory exam and passed the theory test, you will need to take a practical exam. You can take this test at private driving schools or at the IMT office. The test costs EUR30 and the IMT will issue you with a an interim driver's license to use while you wait for your new licence.
You need to have an authentic passport, residence card or medical certificate, as well as an attestation from your country of birth. The embassy will also authenticate and notarize documents at an additional fee.
To exchange your foreign driver's permit for a 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, therefore it is recommended to start early. You should arrive at least an hour before the office opens.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes has launched an online platform that lets drivers determine when their license is due to renew. The platform is available to both Portuguese and non-Portuguese citizens. It also provides information about road traffic rules and regulations.
Requirements
If you're a citizen of Portugal it is crucial to exchange your driving license for one that is a Portuguese one. Otherwise, you could face heavy penalties. It is recommended to start this process as soon as possible when you have received your residence permit. It's also essential to inform the institute of mobility and transportation that you'll be using your old licence, since this is a legal requirement.
The first step is to visit an IMT office with all the required documents. You should bring your driver's license and proof of address, a residence card, and medical exam. The medical exam must be conducted by a physician who is registered with the IMT. The doctor will then issue a certificate that's specific to your license and send it to the IMT through their online medical certificate platform.
The next step is the practical driving exam. The test typically lasts between 40 to 50 minutes. You will be accompanied by an instructor, an examiner, and another person who is taking the test. You'll be required to drive going and returning so be prepared for a long day!
If you're from a nation without a bilateral arrangement, you'll need to provide a certified translation. This must be completed by the issuing entity or consular servisse, and it must indicate the categories that were obtained by examination and those obtained through equivalent means. You'll also require a psychotherapy evaluation certificate, which must be drafted by psychologist.
You must also provide a certified abstract of your driving record from the United States, which must be authenticated. You can find the list of state authorities that are authorised to perform this service here. This document is crucial to the process of obtaining a driving license, as it can take up to a month to get from the U.S. Moreover, this process can be longer if the U.S. doesn't have a reciprocal arrangement with the European Union. Additionally, you must take into account that the IMT is usually understaffed and the processing time can be lengthy.
Fees
The process of getting your first driver's license may be costly. The cost of the driving lessons and the practical test could be as high as EUR250. It is nevertheless important to start the process as soon as possible to ensure that you receive your new licence before the deadline. You could be penalized for a late fee if you fail to submit your application on time.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online service that allows residents to get an official certificate. This new service is a fantastic alternative to going to IMT offices and is perfect for those who are looking to save time. The service is available to anyone who has a citizen card or digital mobile key. It allows drivers to save 10% of the fee that they would otherwise have to pay at the IMT offices. The certificate, which has a new design is valid for six months and can be checked by reading the QR CODE.
When you have all your documents in order, you are able to submit the request for the exchange of a driving license. You must submit the IMT with a record of driving history. This can be obtained from the government or from a private driving school. The embassy will help you get this document. But, you must ensure that the apostille appears on the document prior to sending it to the IMT.
If you are a resident of Portugal and are a citizen of the EU or EEA, you will need to exchange your driving license for one of a Portuguese license within two years of moving here. Along with Comprar carta de condução da categoria C driving license you will have to provide a lost title document from your country of origin. The embassy can assist you in this process by legalizing the document.
The test is comprised of 30 multiple-choice tests and lasts around 30 minutes. To pass, you must answer at least 27 of the 30 questions correctly. The questions are similar to those on the preparation classes. The test is taken in a car, accompanied by an instructor and a candidate taking the test.
Timeframe
Be prepared to wait for a long period of time if you plan to exchange your licence. You may also have to submit additional documents depending on the country of your origin. If you're unsure what documents you'll require, make sure to look up the IMT website.
The IMT has launched a new service called "My Driving License." This platform online lets you check the status of your driving license and to determine when it's time to renew it. The IMT also offers an app on mobile that can help you get started with the process of changing your American drivers license for an Portuguese one.
You can also use the My Driving License platform to report the loss or theft of your driving license. If you've lost your license, you'll have to surrender it to the IMT. You will be issued a replacement after you have submitted the psychotechnical certificate.
Once you have uploaded all the required documents and you have received an email from the IMT informing you that they have received your application. It will take a few days or weeks for them to complete your application. Once they have processed your application you will be informed of the results via email or phone. If your driver's licence is not accepted, a document will be issued that will allow you to drive (but only within Portugal). The IMT will send you your new Portuguese driving license via postal mail.
It is best to schedule an appointment at the IMT the moment you arrive in Portugal. It is possible to wait for a while if do not make an appointment. Bring your ID card and your NIF number with you.