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 you can. If you do not, your license may be confiscated or cancelled.
To complete your exchange you'll need to provide the following documents: a photo ID, an completed IMT Modelo 13 form, and proof of residence. You may also require a medical exam.
Cost
The cost of an IMT driving licence varies based on whether you choose to take the theory test online or in person. The test costs EUR15 in person and lasts for 30 minutes. The test consists of 30 multiple-choice questions that cover the syllabus you were taught in preparation classes. The test is conducted in Portuguese, but you can also choose to have it translated into English. The IMT website provides the list of private centers that can offer the test.
The IMT also provides an online service for replacement of stolen or lost drivers' licenses. The website lets citizens submit their request for an electronic certificate. Then, you can take the certificate to a police station in order to receive a new license within eight weeks. Additionally, you can make your request at an IMT desk in person. You'll need a valid ID document such as passport, a taxpayer number, a citizens card or a residence permit. In addition, you'll be required to fill out the Modelo 10 IMT Form.
After you have moved to Portugal it is essential to exchange your foreign driving license for a Portuguese driver's license as soon as you are able. You'll be protected from paying heavy penalties in the event that your driver's license from abroad is stolen or lost. Also, you should obtain your new Portuguese license before the validity of your current one runs out.
You can submit your application in person at an IMT office or on the internet. However in-person visits are more frequent for applications that are complex, including those involving the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings might require additional documents, like a notarized translation of your foreign license or an official copy of your home country's ruling body.
The US does not have a central database of driving licenses, unlike other countries. This could mean it may take longer for IMT to verify the authenticity of your driver's license. You can prevent this issue by asking IMT for an extension of your temporary driver's license when it is due to expire.
The process of changing your US driver's licence for one with a Portuguese license can be confusing and lengthy. You must prepare all of the required documentation before visiting an IMT office and you must bring cash in the event that the office doesn't accept credit cards. Download the SIGA app on your phone to see how many people are being handled at any given time.
Requirements
You can exchange a foreign driving licence to one that is a Portuguese license without the need to pass the Portuguese driving test. However, the process could be a long one. You may have to organize your documents, but you'll be required to attend preparatory classes and pass the theory test either at IMT or privately. You must have completed 32 hours of practical lessons and 28 hours of theory in order to be eligible for a driving test. These lessons are conducted in government-approved centres. You can find the locations on the IMT website. The length of the lessons depends on your availability and progress.
To exchange your foreign license you must submit an abstract of driving records from the state where you most recently resided in the United States. Comprar Carta de Condução da Categoria B1 must be stamped or apostilled to be valid in your application at IMT. The embassy will then authenticate the certificate. You can bring it along to your appointment in person with IMT.
You can apply for a driving license on the internet or in person at the IMT office in your city. The online process is more convenient and less stressful. You will need to provide an identification document, such as your taxpayer number or a citizen card, in order to make a request. If you are transferring a foreign driver's license it is also necessary to bring your passport or resident permit.
The IMT offers a new service that permits drivers to request duplicate driving licenses online. This new service is easy and can save you time and money. The IMT created a portal that allows drivers upload their documents and even provide an image.
The institute also provides the option of receiving an automated notification when the time is right to renew your driving licence. In addition the IMT also informs you about the expiration date of your driving licence as well as how to renew it.
Time frame
Obtaining your driving license to drive in Portugal is a long process. It can take up to 30 days for the IMT to complete your application, and even longer during high-demand times. You can drive while waiting for the IMT to process your application using your driving license issued by a foreign country or temporary permit.
You can track the status of an application online and monitor its progress. However, some applications require a personal visit. In certain instances, you can submit the required documents directly from your country of origin. This makes the process much more efficient.
If you're attempting to exchange your EU driver's license, it's important to do so as soon as you can. 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 prior to traveling to another country, as the IMT won't be able to replace your EU license if it gets stolen or lost in a different country.
After you've completed your application, you'll be required to undergo a medical examination. It's a quick test to confirm that you're mentally fit to operate a vehicle. This test does not include stress tests or bloodwork, so it should be easy to pass. The IMT website contains an official list of physicians who are approved for this exam.
Once you have passed your medical test then you can begin preparation for both the practical and theory examinations. The theory test can be taken at the IMT or an examination center that is private but you must have completed your preparation classes prior to taking the exam. The practical test can be taken either separately or in conjunction with the theory exam. If you choose to take the theory test and the practical exam together, you will require a certificate of preparation with you. You will have to retake the exam if you don't.
Insurance
If you're planning to relocate to Portugal be sure to get your driver's license exchanged in the earliest time possible. In the event of delay, it could result in fines and a delay of your residence permit. It is also recommended that you complete the exchange within 90 days of receiving your residency permit.
If you're an EU resident or not, you'll need to get a Certificate of Authentication for your previous license prior to exchanging it for an Portuguese one. This document is available at the Embassy of your country or from consular services in Portugal.
You'll also need to pass a medical exam. This test isn't as difficult as you think. This test involves blood tests and physical examination to confirm that you're able drive safely. This exam costs EUR25 and is conducted by a doctor who is part of an organization that deals with medical issues.