How to Buy the IMT Driving License
The Institute of Mobility and Transport recommends that you exchange your license prior to it being lost or stolen if you're moving to Portugal from an EU member state. Here's how you can do it.
The procedure involves the taking of a medical exam. This is a good thing - you can apply online and avoid waiting.
How to apply
The process of getting an IMT driving license entails taking an assortment of theory and practical lessons. These lessons are taken in government-licensed facilities and taught by qualified instructors. The course consists of 28 hours of theory and 32 hours of hands-on lessons. The cost of these classes is different, but you can save money by joining an agency that provides group classes for less than $100.
The next step is to take the theory test (exame de codigo). This test is available online or at public institutions and lasts approximately 30 minutes. The test consists of 30 multiple choice questions that you need to answer with computers. The questions are based on the syllabus you learned in your preparatory classes. You must get 27 of the questions right to pass the exam.
After passing the theory test, you'll be required to take the practical exam. The test can be taken at a private driving school or at the IMT. The exam costs EUR30, and the IMT will provide you with a a temporary driver's licence to use while you wait for your new licence.
You must bring an original passport or residence card, medical certificate, and an attestation of your driving license from the country of origin. The embassy is also able to authenticate and notarize documents at an additional fee.
To exchange your foreign driving license for a Portuguese one, you need to visit the Institute for Mobility and Transport office ("Instituto of Mobility and Transportes"). It is advised to arrive early since the office is usually very crowded. If you are able, be there an hour before opening time.
Comprar a carta de condução do IMT has launched an online platform that allows drivers to verify when their driver's license is due to renew. The platform can be used by both Portuguese and foreign citizens as well as foreign. It also provides information about road traffic rules and regulations.
Requirements
If you're a citizen of Portugal it is essential to exchange your driving licence for one in Portuguese one as soon as you can. If you don't, you could be subject to severe fines. It is best to begin this process as soon as possible after receiving your residence permit. It's also essential to notify the institute of mobility and transport that you'll be using the old licence, as this is an obligation under the law.
You must go to an IMT with all the required documents. You must bring your driver's license and proof of address, residence card, and medical exam. The medical exam must be administered by a doctor who is registered with the IMT. The doctor will issue a certification specific to your license. Then, they transmit it to the IMT through their online medical certificate platform.
You will then be able to take the practical driving test. The test will last between 40 and 50 minutes. The test will be conducted by a teacher along with the examiner as well as an additional person taking the test. You'll be asked to drive both ways, so be prepared for an extended day!
If you are from a country that does not have a bilateral agreement with Portugal, you will need to present an official translation of your driver's licence. This can be done by the issuing entity, or by the consular service. It should contain the categories that were derived through examination and those obtained via equivalence. Additionally, you'll require an assessment of psychological quality which has to be signed by an authorized psychologist.
It is also necessary to submit a certified copy of your driving record from the United States, which must be authenticated. Here you can find the list of authorities in the state who are authorized to perform this service. This document is crucial to the driving licence process as it can take a month to get the U.S. to mail it. Furthermore, this process could be extended if the U.S. doesn't have a reciprocal arrangement with the European Union. Also, you should consider that the IMT could be understaffed and the processing time may be lengthy.
Fees
It can be expensive to get your first license. The cost of driving lessons and the practical test can be as high as EUR250. It is essential to start the process as soon as possible in order to get your new driving license before the deadline. If you fail to do this then, you could be required to pay a fine for late filing of your application.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online service that allows residents to obtain the certificate. This new service is an excellent alternative to going to IMT offices and is perfect for those looking to save time. The service is available to anyone with a citizen card or digital mobile key. It allows drivers to save 10% off the fee that they would otherwise have to pay at the IMT offices. The certificate, which has new design and is valid for 6 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 driving license. You must submit the IMT with a copy of your driving history. You can get this through the government or an individual driving school. The embassy can assist you to obtain this document. But, you must ensure that the apostille appears on the document prior to sending it to the IMT.
If you are a citizen of an EU or EEA country you have to exchange your driving license for one in Portugal. Portuguese one within two years of acquiring residence in the country. Along with your driving license, you will need to provide an unissued title document from your country of origin. The embassy can help you in this process by certifying the document.
The test in theory consists of 30 multiple-choice questions and takes about 30 minutes. You must get 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 car with an instructor and a candidate.
Timeframe
If you're looking to exchange your driving licence be prepared for for a long time. Depending on your country you may have to provide additional documents. If you're not sure of the documents you will require, make sure to go to the IMT website.
The IMT has launched a new online service called "My Driving License" that allows you to examine the status of your driving license and determine when it's time to renew. The IMT provides a mobile app which will assist you in the process of exchange 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've lost or taken your license, you'll need to give it back to the IMT. After you have submitted the psychotechnical certificate and you will receive an updated driving licence.
You will receive an email confirmation from the IMT after you've uploaded your documents. It may take several days or weeks for them to review your application. Once they have processed your application you will be notified of the outcome via either email or telephone. If your driver's licence is not accepted, a certificate will be issued to allow you drive (but only within Portugal). The IMT will send you a new Portuguese driving license via postal mail.
It's best to schedule an appointment with the IMT the moment you arrive in Portugal. It is possible to wait for a while if do not make an appointment. It is recommended to bring your ID card and NIF number when you go.