Buy the IMT Driving License
If you are a non-EU national and you are new to Portugal you must change your driving license from a foreign country as soon as you can. If you don't do it then, your license could be confiscated or canceled.
You'll need the following documents to complete your exchange: ID and the completed IMT Modelo 13 application, and proof of residence. You may also require an examination for medical reasons.
Cost
The cost of an IMT driving license varies based on if you take the test online or in person. The test costs EUR15 in person and lasts for 30 minutes. The test is comprised of 30 multiple choice questions that are based on the syllabus you learned in preparation classes. The test is conducted in Portuguese However, you can also opt to have it translated into English. The IMT website provides an extensive list of private centers that can offer the exam.
The IMT provides a service online for replacing lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website lets citizens register their request and receive an electronic certificate. You can then present the certificate at a police station and receive an additional license within 8 weeks. You can also submit your request in person at an IMT counter. You'll need an ID document such as a passport, a taxpayer number, a citizen card or a residence permit. Also, you will have to fill out the Modelo 10 IMT Form.
It's important to exchange your foreign driver's license to a Portuguese one as soon as you can after moving to Portugal. You will be protected from heavy fines in the event that your driver's license from abroad is lost or stolen. Also, you should get your new Portuguese driving license before your old one expires.
You can apply in person at an IMT office or online. However in-person visits are more frequent for applications that are complex which include the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings might require additional documents, such as an official translation of your foreign license or the copy of your country's the governing body.
As opposed to other countries unlike other countries, the US has no central database for driving licenses. This could mean it will take longer for IMT to verify the authenticity of your driver's licence. Fortunately, you can get around 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 that is a Portuguese one can be a bit confusing and time-consuming. It is important to make sure you have all the required documentation before visiting an IMT branch. Also, you should bring cash if the branch does not accept credit cards. Download the SIGA application on your smartphone to see how many persons will be dealt with at any given time.
Requirements
You can exchange a foreign driving license to one that is a Portuguese license without the need to pass the Portuguese driving test. The process could be lengthy. In addition to arranging your documents, you may also need to take classes for preparation and the theory test at IMT or a private examination center. You must have completed 32 hours of practical lessons and 28 hours of theory in order to be eligible for a driving test. These lessons are taught in government-approved centers. You can find the list of these centers on the IMT website. The duration of the lessons is contingent on your availability and your improvement.
In order to transfer your foreign driver's license you must provide an abstract of your driving record from the state in which you last residence in the United States. This document must be apostilled/stamped in order to be valid for inclusion in your application with IMT. The embassy will verify the certificate. You can also bring it to an appointment in person with IMT.
You can apply online or in an IMT office near you. The online application process is simpler and less stressful. However, you will need an identification document such as a citizen card or taxpayer number to make an application. If you are transferring a foreign driver's license it is also necessary to bring your passport or resident permit.
The IMT offers a new service that lets drivers request duplicate driving licenses online. This new service will save time and money, and it is more convenient than visiting an IMT office in person. The IMT has created a portal that allows drivers to upload their documents, and even upload a picture.
Additionally, the institute gives the option of receiving an automatic announcement when it's time to time to renew your driving licence. The IMT will also tell you when your driving license expires and how to renew it.
Time frame
Obtaining your driving license to drive in Portugal can be a lengthy process. It can take up to 30 days for the IMT to complete your application, and even longer during the peak hours. While you wait you are able to drive with a foreign license or a temporary permit.
The online portal of IMT allows you to check on the status of your application as well as track your progress. However, certain applications require an in-person visit. In some cases you can submit the necessary documents directly from your country of origin. This makes the process much more efficient.
It is essential to apply as soon as you can when you're looking to exchange your EU driving license. This will protect your license from being stolen or lost while you wait for it to be processed. It's also crucial to get an Portuguese license prior to travelling abroad. view it now cannot replace your EU license if it's stolen or lost in another nation.
Once you've submitted your application, a medical examination is required. It's a quick test to determine if you are mentally fit enough to drive a car. This test doesn't contain stress tests or blood tests, so it should be simple to pass. The IMT website includes a list of doctors approved to administer this exam.

After you have passed your medical exam then you can begin prepping for both the practical and theory examinations. The theory test can be taken at the IMT, or a private exam center. You must have attended your preparatory classes first. The practical exam can be taken separately or alongside the theory test. If you choose to take the theory test and the practical exam together, you will require a certificate of preparation class along with you. Otherwise, you'll have to take the exam at a later time.
Insurance
If you are planning to move to Portugal in the near future, you must exchange your driver's license immediately. Failure to do so can result in fines as well as a delay in the issuance of your residence permit. It is best to exchange your residence permit within 90 days.
If you're an EU resident or not, you'll need to get a Certificate of Authentication for your license prior to exchanging it for one that is a Portuguese one. This document can be obtained from the embassy in your country or consular service in Portugal.
You'll have to pass a medical examination. This exam is not as difficult as you think. This exam includes bloodwork and physical examination to confirm that you're able drive safely. The test costs EUR25 and is administered by a physician from a medical group.