Buy the IMT Driving License Online
If you're thinking of changing your driving license in Portugal, the best thing you can do is start the process as soon as you get your residency card. This will help you save time and effort in the long run.
You will need to complete certain requirements, including classes and a medical examination. But don't worry that the medical exam is not as difficult as it appears.
Requirements
If you plan to relocate to Portugal it is essential to exchange your current foreign driving license to the Portuguese driving licence as soon as you can. This will ensure that you have a valid driver's license should your car is stolen or lost. You can exchange your license at the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT) offices. The process is simple, but a few documents are required. Comprar Carta de Condução da Categoria B1 includes a medical exam and a translation of your foreign driving licence. You can employ an expert translator from lingoking to assist you with this task.
You'll also need to pass a theory test and complete practical lessons. These lessons are offered in licensed driving schools by the government. You can find the list of these locations on the IMT website. The test for theory costs 30 euros, while the practical driving test costs an additional 40 euros. You may be required to take a special test for specialized vehicles like buses, or other large passenger vehicles.
The IMT website contains details on how to change your driving licence from another country in Portugal. There are different rules for each country, so it is important to check the IMT's website prior move. Expats from the United States, for example, must submit a certification of equivalence that is issued by their home state.
The IMT will require your identification card or passport before they will allow you to exchange your driving license. It will also require a certified copy your driving record. You can obtain a certified copy of your driving record from your home state or from a notary public. The notary public will charge an amount for their services.
Fees
As of today it appears that the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) has launched a new online service that enables citizens to obtain a driver's license certificate. To be able to use the service drivers need to have their digital mobile key or citizen card and access the IMT's "My Driving License" portal. After registration, the certificate can be issued in Portuguese or English. It is valid for a period of six months. The authenticity of the certificate can be confirmed either by scanning the QR Code or by entering the verification codes.
Wait for IMT to notify you that you are able to go to their office to register your application and submit biometric data. IMT will let you know if there is an exam fee.
It is important to note that the process could take some time, particularly because the US does not have an automated system for exchanging documents like driver's licenses with Portugal. Once you submit your documentation it could take some time for IMT to check it and return it back to you.
Make sure to label the documents you send to IMT with your name and contact details. It's also a good idea to scan all the documents before you send them to ensure that you can easily find them in the event of need. If you're applying for the license for multiple family members, label each document separately to avoid confusion. This will save you 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 are able to exchange it within 60 days to obtain a Portuguese driver's licence. You can exchange your license online or at a IMT desk. To complete the process, you must present the proof of identity along with the completed Modelo 10 IMT form. Additionally, you need to sign up on the IMT website with your taxpayer number and password.
Anyone who is exchanging their licenses with countries outside of the EU will have to pay additional fees. If you have a US driving license, for instance you will need to get an abstract from state authorities as well as the doctor's approval that you can drive. The medical exam is conducted by the doctor who will ask you some general health questions and give you a summary neurological test.
The entire process is lengthy, but it's worth it in the end. It's a good idea also to get your license as quickly as possible, so that it isn't lost or stolen.
When you apply for your license, make sure that all the documents you submit are scanned and saved as separate files. If you can, give each file a distinct name to avoid confusion. After you've submitted your application, you'll receive an email confirmation from IMT to inform you of the status of your request. You'll also receive an appointment at the IMT office to take your practical driving exam.
Practical lessons
The driving lessons are taught in government-licensed centers and are taught by certified instructors. The learning period is between 28 and 32 hours. You must complete theory classes and practical ones and pass both before you are able to take your test. The exam will be held in the same place where you completed your theory exam. It is therefore essential to know the location. The test is comprised of 30 questions, and you should not make more than three mistakes. The questions are based off the syllabus you learned during your preparation classes. The tests are not conducted online, but you can download the syllabus and test the questions on various websites.
You may also select a private institution to pass the test, but you should be aware that these exams are dependent on the availability of dates and the qualifications of the experts. You'll also be required to pay EUR30 and provide an official medical certificate proving your fitness to drive. Renewals may also require an eye test. After passing the exam you'll be issued your license by mail.
On the IMT's website, you will also find a listing of centres that are certified. It is essential to verify whether the center has a certified instructor. If you are not satisfied with the performance of the instructor, don't hesitate seek a replacement. The instructor will teach you how to drive your vehicle and control traffic. It is also necessary to know about the highway code and road signs in Portugal. The cost of driving lessons in Portugal varies from center to center. It is recommended to visit the IMT website and compare prices to find the best deal.
Theory test
The Institute of Mobility and Transport offers both theory and practical driving classes. The IMT can only issue a driving permit after passing both a theoretical and practical exam. A proof of a positive psychological assessment is also required. The theoretical test, or "exame of codigo" comprises 30 questions which you have to answer correctly within 35 minutes. The exam can be taken through IMT or through private testing centers. If you're a foreigner, you can request the IMT to translate the questions into English for you.
The test for driving practice, or "exame de velocidade," lasts 40 to 50 minutes. It involves a test ride on an urban route. You will be evaluated both by the examiner and the instructor. If you pass the test you will be able to take the exam again. IMT will send you a certificate via mail.
In order to take the practical and theoretical exams you must complete at least 28 of your theoretical classes and 16 practical classes. You can take your theoretical exam before completing the required number practical classes. You'll have pay for the practical classes.
If you don't have the funds to purchase a vehicle or lease one, you can get one through a driving school. This will allow you to test your driving skills without having to think about the cost of purchasing a new vehicle. Make sure to research the different schools in your area to find the one that is best for you. Check the insurance policy of the car you are planning to rent prior to booking. Your rental company could refuse to pay if you do not have the right insurance.