How to Buy the IMT Driving License
The Institute of Mobility and Transport recommends that you swap your license before it is lost or stolen if you are moving to Portugal from another EU member state. Here's how you can do it.
The process requires the taking of a medical exam. The good news is that you can apply online and avoid waiting.
How do you apply
The process of getting an IMT driving license entails taking the following practical and theory-based lessons. These lessons are taught by qualified instructors in centres that are licensed by the government. It takes 28 hours of theory lessons and 32 practical lessons to complete the course. The classes are available at various prices, however you can save money by enrolling in lessons in a group that cost less than EUR100.
The next step is to take the theory test (exame de codigo). This test can be taken on the internet or at public institutions and takes about 30 minutes. It is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions that you must complete on the computer. The questions are based off the syllabus that you studied in your preparation classes. To pass the test, you have to complete 27 questions correctly.
After passing the theory test, you will need to pass the practical test. You can take this test at a private driving school or at the IMT office. The test costs EUR30 and the IMT will provide you with a an interim driver's license to use while you wait to get your new licence.
You must bring a valid passport or residence card, a medical certificate and an attestation of your driving license from the country of origin. The embassy is also able to authenticate and notarize documents for an additional charge.
To exchange your foreign driving licence for one that is a Portuguese one, you need to visit the Institute for Mobility and Transport office ("Instituto of Mobility and Transportes"). The office is typically busy, therefore it is advised to go early. It is recommended to arrive at least an hour before the time that the office opens.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes launched an online platform to allow drivers to check their driver's license renewal date. The platform is accessible to both Portuguese and non-Portuguese citizens. It also provides information on road traffic rules and regulations.
Requirements
If you are a resident of Portugal, it is essential that you exchange your driving license for one that is a Portuguese one. If you don't, you could be subject to severe penalties. The process is typically bureaucratic, 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 the old licence, as this is a legal requirement.
You must go to an IMT with all required documents. You should bring your driver's license as well as proof of address, residence card, and a medical examination. The IMT must enlist a physician to conduct the medical exam. The doctor will issue a certificate that is specific to your license and send it directly the IMT via their online medical certificate platform.
Once you've filled out all of these documents, you can take the driving test. This test usually lasts 40 to 50 minutes. You will be accompanied by an instructor, an examiner and a third person taking the test. You'll be asked to drive both ways, so be prepared for a long day!
If you're from a nation without a bilateral agreement you'll need a certified translation. This should be performed by the issuing agency or consular servisse, and it must include the categories derived through examinations and those that were derived through the process of equivalence. You'll also require a psychotherapy evaluation certificate, which must be written by psychologist.
You should also provide a certified abstract of your driving record from the United States, which must be authenticated. Here is the list of state authorities that are authorized to provide this service. This document is essential to the process of getting a driving license, as it can take up to a month to receive from the U.S. The process could take longer if there isn't a reciprocal agreement between the U.S. and the European Union. Also, you should be aware that the IMT may be insufficiently staffed, and the processing time may be lengthy.
Fees
The process of getting your first driver's license can be expensive. Driving classes are not free, and the actual exam can cost you up to EUR250. It is crucial to begin the process as fast as you can in order to receive your new license before the deadline. You could be penalized for late payment if you fail to submit your application on time.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport launched an online service to allow citizens to obtain a certification. The new service is a great alternative to visiting the IMT offices in person and is a good idea for those who want to save time. The service is open to all drivers who possess the digital mobile key or a citizen card. It allows them to save 10% off the cost they would have incurred at IMT offices. The certificate, which is designed with a a new layout, is valid for six months and can be verified by scanning the QR CODE or verification code.
Once Comprar carta de condução da categoria A have your documents in order you can make an application for an exchange of driving license. You must submit the IMT with proof of driving history. You can get this from the government or from an individual driving school. The embassy can assist you in getting this document, however, you should ensure that the apostille has been placed on the document before sending it to the IMT.
If you are a resident of Portugal and a citizen of the EU or EEA You will have to exchange your driving licence for a Portuguese license within two years of moving here. Along with your driving permit you must present an unissued title document from your country. The embassy can assist in this process by legalizing the document.
The theory test is composed of 30 multiple-choice responses and lasts approximately 30 minutes. You must complete at least 27 right to pass. The questions are similar to the ones in preparation classes. The test is conducted in the car, with an instructor and a candidate taking the test.
Timeframe
Be prepared to wait for a an extended period of time if you plan to exchange your license. Depending on the country in which you reside you might need to provide additional documents. If you're unsure what documents you'll need, you should go to the IMT website.
The IMT has launched a brand new online service called "My Driving License" which lets you examine the status of your driving license and determine when it's time to renew. The IMT provides a mobile app that will help you start the process of converting your American drivers license for one in Portugal.
You can also report the loss or theft of your license by using the My Driving License platform. If you have lost or stolen your driving license You must hand it over to the IMT. Once you have submitted the psychotechnical certificate you will be issued an updated driving licence.
Once you have uploaded all of your required documents and received all the 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 couple of weeks or days. 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 a new Portuguese driving license by post.
It is best to schedule an appointment with the IMT when you first arrive in Portugal. If you don't have an appointment, you may be waiting for a long time to be seen. It's recommended to carry your ID card and NIF number with you when you go.