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 to do it.
The process involves a medical exam. This is a good thing - you can apply online and save time.
How to Apply
To obtain an IMT license, you'll have to complete a series of theory and practical lessons. The classes are taught by experienced instructors in government-licensed centres. It takes 28 hours of theory lessons and 32 practical lessons to complete the course. The cost of these classes varies, but you can save money by joining an agency that offers group lessons for less than EUR100.
The next step is to take the theory test. This test can be taken online or at public institutions and lasts around 30 minutes. It consists of 30 multiple-choice questions that you must answer using a computer. The questions are based on the syllabus you studied in your preparation classes. To pass the test, you have to answer correctly 27 questions.
After passing the theory test, you'll need to take the practical exam. You can take this test at private driving schools or at the IMT office. The exam costs EUR30, and the IMT will provide you with a temporary driving license to use while you wait for your new licence.
You must possess a valid passport, residency card or medical certificate as well as an attestation from your country of birth. The embassy can also authenticate and notarize your documents for an additional fee.
To exchange your foreign driver's permit to the Portuguese driving licence it is necessary go to the Institute for Mobility and Transport ("Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes") office. It is best to arrive early as the office is usually crowded. If you can, arrive an hour prior to the opening time.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes launched an online platform that allows drivers to check their driving license renewal date. The platform is accessible by both Portuguese and foreign citizens as well as foreign. It also provides information on road traffic regulations and rules.
Requirements
If you're a resident of Portugal it is crucial to change your driving license for one in Portuguese one whenever you can. You could face a significant fine in the event that you don't. It is recommended to start this process as soon as you can when you have received your residence permit. It's also essential to notify the institute of mobility and transport that you'll be using your previous licence, as this is an obligation under the law.
The first step is to go to an IMT office with all the required documents. Bring your driver's license and proof of residence, residence card, and an examination for medical reasons. The IMT must authorize a doctor to conduct the medical examination. The doctor will issue a certificate that is specific to your license, and send it directly the IMT via their online medical certificate platform.
You can then proceed to the driving test. This test lasts between 40 and 50 minutes. You will be accompanied by a teacher, the examiner and an additional person taking the test. Be prepared to spend a long time driving back and forth.
If you're from a nation that doesn't have an agreement bilaterally with Portugal You will have to provide a certified translation of your driver's licence. This must be completed by the entity that issued it or the consular servisse. It must include the categories derived by examination and those obtained through equivalent means. You'll also require a psychotherapy evaluation certificate, which needs to be written by psychologist.
You should also provide a certified abstract of your driving record from the United States, which must be authenticated. You can find a list of state authorities that are designated to perform this service here. This document is essential to the process of getting a driving license, as it can take up to a month to get from the U.S. Additionally, the process could be even longer if the U.S. doesn't have a reciprocal arrangement with the European Union. Also, you should consider that the IMT may be insufficiently staffed, and the processing time can be lengthy.
Fees
Getting your first driver's license can be expensive. The driving classes aren't free, and the practical test can cost up to EUR250. However, it's crucial to begin the process as soon as you can to ensure you get your new driving license before the deadline. If you fail to do this submit your application on time, you may have to pay a penalty for late submission of your application.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online service that allows citizens to get the certification. The new service is a great alternative to visiting the IMT offices in person, and is a great option for those looking to cut down on time. The service is open to all drivers who have a digital mobile key or citizen card. It allows them to save 10% off the amount they'd have paid at IMT offices. The certificate, which is adorned with a a new design and is valid for 6 months and can be checked by reading the QR CODE.
Once you have your documents in order you can submit an application for an exchange of your driving licence. You must provide the IMT with a record of driving history. Comprar Carta de Condução da Categoria B1 can obtain this from the government or a private driving school. The embassy can assist you with the process of obtaining this document, but you should make sure that the apostille has been placed on the document prior to submitting it to the IMT.
If you are a resident of an EU or EEA country you must change your driving licence to a Portuguese one within two years after establishing residency in the country. Along with your driving permit you will have to present an unissued title document from your country of origin. The embassy will help you by legalising your document.
The test is comprised of 30 multiple-choice tests and lasts approximately 30 minutes. To pass, you must be able to answer at least 27 of the 30 questions correctly. The questions are similar to the ones in preparation classes. The test is conducted in a vehicle with an instructor and the candidate.
Timeframe
Be prepared to wait for a an extended time if you want to exchange your licence. You may also need to submit additional documents based on your country of origin. If you're not sure of the documents you will need, you should look up the IMT website.
The IMT has launched a new online service dubbed "My Driving License" that allows you to check your driving license status and determine when it's time to renew. The IMT also offers an app for mobile devices that can help you start the process of converting your American drivers license to an Portuguese one.
You can also use the My Driving License platform to report the loss or theft of your driving license. If you've lost or taken your license, you'll have to give it back to the IMT. Once you have submitted the psychotechnical certification, you will receive a new driving licence.
You will receive an email confirmation from the IMT once you have uploaded your documents. The IMT will review your application within a few weeks or days. After they have processed your application, you will be informed of the results by email or by phone. If your driver's licence is not accepted, a document will be issued to permit you to drive (but only within Portugal). The IMT will then mail you a new Portuguese driving license via post.
If you are arriving in Portugal it is best to make an appointment with the IMT. You might have to wait for a while if you do not make an appointment. Bring your ID card and your NIF number with you.