Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're a non-EU national and you are new to Portugal, you should exchange your foreign driving licence as soon as possible. If you don't, your license could be seized or revoked.
You'll require the following documents to complete your exchange: ID, a completed IMT Modelo 13 application, and proof of residency. You may require a medical examination.
Cost
The cost of an IMT driving license varies based on if you take the test online or in person. In person, the test is EUR15 and lasts 30 minutes. The test is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions that test the syllabus you were taught in preparation classes. The test is in Portuguese However, you can also opt to translate it into English. The IMT website has an extensive list of private centers offering the exam.
The IMT offers a service online to replace lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website allows users to submit their request and receive a digital certificate. You can then present the certificate at a police station to receive an additional license within eight weeks. In addition, you can make your request at an IMT desk in person. You'll need an ID document like a citizen card, taxpayer number, passport or residence permit, and a completed Modelo 10 IMT form.
It is crucial to change your foreign driver's license for one in Portugal. Portuguese one as soon as possible after moving to Portugal. You'll be protected from heavy penalties if your foreign driver's license is stolen or lost. Also, you should obtain your new Portuguese license before the validity of your previous one ends.
You can submit your application in person at an IMT office or on the internet. However, in-person visits are more common for complex applications which include the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings might require additional documents, for example, an official translation of your foreign license or an official copy of your home country's governing body.
The US has no central database for driving licenses unlike other countries. It could take IMT longer to verify your driver's licence. Fortunately you can avoid this by asking IMT to extend your temporary paper license if it's about to expire.
The process of exchanging your US driver's license for one in Portuguese one can be a bit confusing and lengthy. You should prepare all the necessary documentation prior to going to an IMT office and carry cash in case the office isn't able to accept credit cards. An excellent tip is to download an application called SIGA on your phone, which lets you know the number of people being dealt with and how long you'll have to wait.
Requirements
You can swap a foreign driving license to one that is a Portuguese license without the need to pass the Portuguese driving test. Nevertheless, the process can be lengthy. You may need to arrange your documents, but you'll also have to attend preparation classes and take the theory test either at IMT or privately. Comprar Carta de Condução da Categoria B1 must have completed 32 hours of instruction in practical classes and 28 hours of theory to be able to pass your driving test. These lessons are conducted at government-approved centers. These centers are listed on the IMT's website. The duration of these lessons depends on your availability and your progress.
To exchange your foreign license, you will need to provide an abstract of your driving documents from the state in which you most recently resided in the United States. This document needs to be apostilled/stamped in order to be valid in your application for IMT. The embassy will authenticate this certificate for you. You can also bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply online or in an IMT office near you. The online method is easier and less stressful. You'll need an identification document, such as your taxpayer number or citizen card, in order to make your request. If you are transferring a foreign driver's license it is also necessary to bring your passport or resident permit.
The IMT offers an innovative service that allows drivers to request duplicate driving licenses online. This new service will save time and money, and it is a lot more convenient than visiting an IMT office in person. The IMT created a portal that allows drivers to upload their documents and even upload a picture.
The institute also offers the option of receiving an automatic notification when it is right to renew your driving license. The IMT will also inform you when your driving licence expires, and when you can renew it.
Time frame
Obtaining your driving license to drive in Portugal is a long process. The IMT could take up to 30 days to process your application, and even longer if you're applying during peak times. You can drive while you wait using your foreign driving license or temporary permit.
You can track the status of an application online and track its progress. However certain applications require the applicant to visit the site personally. In certain instances you may be able to submit the required documents from your home country which makes the process faster.
If you're applying to exchange your EU driver's license, you must make the change as soon as possible. Comprar carta de condução da categoria A will stop your license from being lost or stolen while you're waiting for it to be processed. It is also important to obtain a Portuguese license prior to traveling abroad. The IMT cannot replace your EU license if it is lost or stolen in another nation.
After you've completed your application, a medical test will be required. It's a quick test to determine if you're mentally able to operate a vehicle. This test doesn't contain bloodwork or stress tests therefore it's easy to pass. The IMT website has a list of doctors who are authorized to administer this test.
Once you've passed the medical exam and passed the medical exam, you can begin studying for the practical and theory tests. The theory test can be taken either at the IMT or at a private exam center. You must have taken your preparatory courses prior to the exam. The practical test can be taken independently or in conjunction with the theory test. If you decide to take the practical test with the theory exam be sure that you have your preparation class certificate with you at the time of the test. You'll have to take the test if you do not.
Insurance
If you're planning on moving to Portugal be sure to have your driver's licence changed in the earliest time possible. Failure to do so can result in fines as well as a delay of your residence permit. It is recommended to exchange your residence permit within 90 days.
No matter if you're an EU resident or not, you need to obtain a Certificate of Authentication for your old license before changing it to a Portuguese one. This document is available at the Embassy of your country or through consular services in Portugal.
You'll have to pass a medical test. The exam isn't as difficult as you think. It involves blood tests and a check-up to make sure you're able to drive safely. A doctor from a medical network can perform this test and costs about EUR25.