How to Buy the IMT Driving License
The Institute of Mobility and Transport recommends that you exchange your license before it is lost or stolen if moving to Portugal from an EU member state. Here's how to do it.
A medical test is required to begin the process. It is possible to order it online to speed up the process.
How do you apply
The process of getting an IMT driving license involves taking the following practical and theory-based lessons. These lessons are taken in government-licensed centers and taught by certified instructors. The course is made up of 28 hours of theory and 32 hours of hands-on lessons. The classes are available at various costs, but you can save money by signing up for a group lesson that costs less than EUR100.
The next step is to take the theory test (exame de codigo). The test is available online or at public institutions and lasts approximately 30 minutes. It is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions that you have to answer on the computer. The questions are based off the syllabus you were taught in your preparatory classes. You must answer 27 of the questions correct to pass the exam.
After passing the theory test, you'll be required to pass the practical test. You can take this test at private driving schools or at the IMT office. The exam costs EUR30, and the IMT will issue you with a temporary driving license to use while you wait to get your new licence.
You must bring an authentic passport or residence card, medical certificate and an attestation of your driving license from the country of origin. The embassy can also authenticate and notarize documents at an additional fee.
To exchange your foreign driving license for one that is a Portuguese one, you must go to the Institute for Mobility and Transport office ("Instituto of Mobility and Transportes"). It is recommended to arrive early as the office is typically crowded. If possible, you should arrive an hour prior to the opening time.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes has launched an online platform to allow drivers to verify their driving license renewal date. The platform is available to both Portuguese and non-Portuguese citizens. It also provides information about road traffic regulations and rules.
Comprar carta de condução da categoria A
If you're a resident in Portugal it is crucial to change your driving license to a Portuguese one as soon as you can. You could face a significant fine in the event that you don't. This process is usually quite formal, so it's best to start as soon as you get your residence permit. It is also important to notify the institute of mobility and transportation that you'll be using your old licence, since this is an obligation under the law.
The first step is to go to an IMT office with all the required documents. Bring your driver's license as well as proof of address, residence card and a medical exam. The medical exam should be conducted by a doctor who is registered with the IMT. The doctor will issue a certificate specific to your license and then send it directly to the IMT through their online medical certificate platform.
Once you've filled out all of these documents, you'll be able to take the driving test. The test typically lasts 40 to 50 minutes. You will be accompanied by an instructor as well as the examiner and another person who is taking the test. Be prepared to spend a long time driving back and back.
If you are from a nation that doesn't have an agreement that is bilateral with Portugal in which case you'll need to present an official translation of your driver's licence. This must be done either by the entity that issued the license, or by the consular service. It should contain the categories that were derived through a test and those that were acquired via equivalence. You'll also need a psychological evaluation certificate, which needs to be written by an experienced psychologist.
You will also need to provide an authenticated, certified abstract of your United States driving record. Here you can find a list with state authorities who are authorized to perform this service. This document is vital to the process of getting a driving license and can take up to a month to receive from the U.S. Moreover, this process can be even longer when the U.S. doesn't have a reciprocal agreement with the European Union. Lastly, you should also consider that the IMT is often understaffed, so the processing time may be long.
Fees
Getting your first driver's license is expensive. The cost of driving lessons and the test on the road can be up to EUR250. However, it is essential to begin the process as soon as you can to ensure you get your new driving license before the deadline. If you don't, you might have to pay a fine for late submission of your application.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online platform to allow citizens to obtain the certification. The new service is a great alternative to visiting the IMT offices in person and is a good idea for those who wish to cut down on time. The service is available to anyone with a citizen card or mobile key, and permits drivers to save 10% of the cost they would otherwise pay at the IMT offices. The certificate, which features new design is valid for six months and can be checked by scanning the QR CODE.
Once you have your documents in order you can make an application for an exchange of your driving license. The IMT demands that you submit a record of your driving record. This can be obtained from the government, or a private driving instructor. The embassy can assist with the process of getting this document, however, you should make sure that the apostille is on the document before sending it to the IMT.
If you are a citizen of an EU or EEA country, you must exchange your driving license for one in Portugal. Portuguese one within two years of acquiring residence in the country. Along with your driving permit you will have to present a lost title document from your country of origin. The embassy will assist you with legalizing your document.
The test for theory is comprised of 30 multiple-choice responses and lasts approximately 30 minutes. You must answer at least 27 questions right to pass. The questions are similar to the ones you will encounter on the preparation classes. The test is conducted in a vehicle with an instructor and a candidate.
Timeframe
Be prepared to wait for a long period of time if you want to exchange your licence. You may also be required to submit additional documents depending on the country of your origin. If you're unsure what documents you'll require, you can check the IMT website.
The IMT has launched a brand new online service dubbed "My Driving License" which lets you verify the status of your driver's license and determine when it's time to renew. The IMT also offers an app for mobile devices that can help you begin the process of converting your American drivers license to an Portuguese one.
You can also report the loss or theft of your license using the My Driving License platform. If you've lost or taken your license, you'll have to give it back to the IMT. You will receive a replacement after you have submitted the psychotechnical certificate.
Once you have uploaded all of your required documents, you will receive an email from the IMT informing you that they have received your application. The IMT will review your application within a few weeks or days. Once they have processed your application, you will be notified of the results by email or by phone. If your driver's license is not accepted, you will be given the paper that allows you to drive (albeit within Portugal). The IMT will mail you a new Portuguese driving license via post.
It's best to schedule an appointment at the IMT when you first arrive in Portugal. You may have to wait for a while if you do not make an appointment. It's also a good idea to bring your ID card along with your NIF number when you go.