Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're a non-EU national and new to Portugal, you should exchange your foreign driving license as soon as possible. If you don't get your license, it could be confiscated or canceled.
To complete your exchange, you'll need the required documents: an ID, an completed IMT Modelo 13 form, and proof of residency. You may also require a medical exam.
Cost
The cost for purchasing the IMT driving license varies depending on whether you decide to take the test in person or online. In person, the test costs EUR15 and lasts 30 minutes. It is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions that test the syllabus that you've learned in your preparatory classes. The test is conducted in Portuguese, but you can also opt to have it translated into English. The IMT website lists private centers that offer this exam.
The IMT provides online services to replace lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website lets users register their request for digital certificates. You can then show the certificate to an officer station to receive a new license within eight weeks. In addition, you may submit your request at an IMT desk in person. You'll need an ID document, such as a citizen card or taxpayer number, a passport or residence permit and a completed Modelo 10 IMT form.
It's important to exchange your driver's license for one that is a Portuguese one immediately after you have moved to Portugal. You will be protected from heavy penalties in the event that your driver's license from abroad is stolen or lost. It is also recommended to get a new Portuguese driving license before your old one expires.
You can submit your request online or in person at a IMT office. In-person visits are the most common for complex applications such as those involving the exchanging of foreign licenses. In-person meetings might require additional documents, such as an official translation of your foreign license or an official copy of your country's governing body.
The US has no central database of driving licenses, unlike other countries. Comprar carta de condução da categoria A can take IMT longer to verify your driver's licence. You can avoid this issue by asking IMT to extend your temporary driver's license if it is about to expire.
The process of changing your US driver's license to one in Portuguese one can be confusing and lengthy. It is important to be prepared with all the necessary documentation before visiting an IMT branch. Also, you should bring cash in case the office does not accept credit cards. An excellent tip is to download an app called SIGA on your mobile that will let you know how many people are being handled and how long you'll have to wait.
Requirements
You can exchange a foreign driving licence to obtain a Portuguese license without the need to pass the Portuguese driving test. Comprar carta de condução da categoria A can still be lengthy. In addition to arranging your documents and preparing your documents, you might also have to take classes for preparation and take the theory test at IMT or a private test center. You must have completed 32 hours of instruction in practical classes and 28 hours of theory to be eligible for your driving test. The lessons are conducted in approved government-approved centers. You can find the list of these centers on the IMT website. The duration of these classes depends on your availability and the progress you make.
To exchange your foreign driver's license you must provide an abstract of your driving record from the state of your last residence in the United States. The document must be stamped or apostilled to be valid when included in your application at IMT. The embassy can authenticate the certificate for you. You can bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply online or at an IMT office close to you. The online application process is simpler and less stressful. You'll need an identification document, like your taxpayer number or a citizen card, in order to make a request. If you're exchanging an international license, you'll also require your passport or resident permit.
The IMT has a new service that allows drivers to request a duplicate driving license online. This new service is easy and could save your time and money. The IMT created a portal that allows drivers to upload their documents and even upload a picture.
The institute also provides the possibility of receiving an automatic notification when the time is the right time to renew your driving license. The IMT will also inform you when your driving license expires, and when you can renew it.
Time frame
The process of getting your driver's license in Portugal is a long process. The IMT can take as long as 30 days to process your application and may take longer if you apply during peak times. You are able to drive while you wait using your foreign driving license or temporary permit.
The online portal of IMT allows you to view the status of your application and track your progress, but certain applications require an in-person visit. In certain cases, you can submit the required documents from your country of origin. This will make the process much quicker.
It's crucial to apply as soon as you can when you're looking to exchange your EU driving license. This will stop your license from being lost or stolen while you wait for it to be processed. It is also important to get an Portuguese license prior to traveling abroad. The IMT will not be able replace your EU license if it is lost or stolen in another country.
Once you've completed your application, a medical test will be required. This is a simple test to ensure that you're mentally fit to operate the vehicle. It doesn't require tests for stress or bloodwork, so it should be simple to pass. The IMT website contains a list of doctors approved to administer this exam.
Once you have passed your medical exam, you can start prepping for both the practical and theory exams. The theory exam can be taken at the IMT or an examination center privately owned but you must have completed your preparation classes prior to taking the exam. The practical test can be taken either separately or as a part of the theory test. If you choose to take the theory test and the practical test together, you'll require your certificate of the preparation class along with you. If not, you'll need to take the test again at a later time.
Insurance
If you are planning to relocate to Portugal in the near future, it is recommended to exchange your driver's licence immediately. Failing to do so could result in fines or a delay in obtaining your residence permit. It is best to change your residence permit within 90 days.
Before exchanging your old license for a Portuguese license, you will need to obtain the Certificate of Authenticity. This document can be obtained at the Embassy of your country or from consular services in Portugal.
You'll also need to pass a medical exam. This exam is not as difficult as you may think. The test includes bloodwork as well as physical tests to make sure that you're able to drive safely. This test costs EUR25 and is administered by a doctor who is part of an organization that deals with medical issues.