Buy the IMT Driving License Online
If you're thinking of changing your driving license in Portugal, the best thing you can do is begin the process immediately after you have received your residency card. This will help you save time and effort.
You'll need to meet certain requirements, such as courses and a medical examination. Be assured that the medical exam isn't as invasive as you think.
Requirements
If you are planning to move to Portugal and are planning to move there, it is crucial to exchange your foreign driving license for one that is a Portuguese one as soon as possible. This will ensure that you have an authentic driver's license in case your vehicle is stolen or lost. You can exchange your license at the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT) offices. The process is quite simple, but you will have to bring a variety of documents along with you. This includes a medical examination and an English translation of your driving license. You can hire an expert translator to assist you.
You must also pass a driving theory test and complete a practical lesson. These lessons are provided in driving schools that are accredited by the government. You can find the list of these locations on the IMT website. The test for theory costs 30 euros and the practical driving test will cost an additional 40 euros. You may need to pass a test for vehicles that are specially designed like buses or other large passenger vehicles.
The IMT's website provides details on how to exchange a foreign driving license in Portugal. It's important to check IMT's website prior moving as there are different rules for every country. Expats from the United States, for example have to present a proof of equivalence issued by their home state.
The IMT will need to see your passport or identification card before they will allow you to change your driving license. They will also require you to have a certified copy of your driving record. You can obtain an official copy from the state you reside in, or from a public notary. The notary will charge an amount for his services.
Fees
As as of today it appears that the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) has launched a new online service that allows citizens to obtain a driver's license certificate. To avail the service, drivers must to have their citizen card or mobile key, and be able to access the IMT's My Driving License portal. Once they have registered, the certificate, which includes an updated layout, can be issued in Portuguese or English and remains valid for a period of six months. The authenticity of the certificate can be verified either by scanning the QR Code or by entering the verification codes.
Wait for IMT to indicate that you are able to go to their office to complete your application and provide biometric data. IMT will let you know whether there is a cost.
It is important to note that the process could take some time, particularly since the US doesn't have a system that automatically exchanges documents like driver's licences with Portugal. It may take IMT a few weeks to review and return your documentation once you have submitted it.
Make sure that the documents you submit to IMT are clearly labeled with your name and address. It's also a good idea to scan all the documents prior to sending them so that you can find them should you require them. If you have multiple family members who are applying for the license, be sure to label each document with a distinct name to avoid any confusion. This will speed up the process and prevent any potential delays.
Timeframe
If you possess valid driver's licenses issued in a nation which is a member of the international road traffic convention, you are able to exchange it for one that is a Portuguese one within 60 days of arriving in Portugal. You can exchange your license online or at a IMT desk. You must also present the Modelo 10 IMT completed form and a proof of identification. In addition, you have to register on the IMT website with your taxpayer number and password.
The fees for those who exchange their licenses will be higher. If you hold a US driving license, for example you will need to obtain an abstract from the state authorities and the doctor's approval that you are able to drive. A doctor will conduct the medical exam. He will ask you general health questions and perform a summary neurologic test.
The entire process can be long, but it's well worth it in the end. It's also a good idea to obtain your license as soon as possible, before it gets lost or stolen.
When submitting your application for a license, make sure that all the documents you send are scanned and saved as separate files. It is best to use different names for each file as much as you can to avoid confusion. After you've submitted your application, you will receive an email confirmation from IMT informing you of the status of your request. You will also be given an appointment to take the practical driving test at IMT.
Practical lessons
The driving lessons take place at government-licensed centers and are only supervised by certified instructors. The learning time is between 28 and 32 hours. Before you can take an exam, you need to complete both theory and practical lessons. The test will be conducted at the same location where you completed your theory test. You should therefore already be familiar with the environment. The test comprises 30 questions, and you're permitted to make three mistakes. The questions are in line with the syllabus you learned in your preparation classes. The tests aren't conducted online, however there are several websites where you can download the syllabus.
You can also take the test at a private institution however this is contingent on the availability of dates and professionals. In addition, you'll have to pay a fee of EUR30 and present an official medical certificate that proves you're qualified to drive. Renewals could also require an eye test. After passing Comprar carta de condução da categoria A 'll be issued your license by mail.
You can also find a list of accredited centers on the IMT website. It is crucial to determine whether the center has a trained instructor. Don't hesitate to ask for a different instructor if you're not satisfied with the instructor's professionalism. The instructor will instruct you how to drive your vehicle and control traffic. It is also necessary to know about the highway code as well as the road signs in Portugal. The cost of driving lessons in Portugal differs from center to center. It is best to go to the IMT website and compare prices to find the best deal.
Theory test
The Institute of Mobility and Transport offers both theory and practical driving classes. It is possible to obtain an driver's license through the IMT only after passing a theoretical and a practical exam. A certificate of favorable psychological assessment is also required. The theoretical test, or "exame of codigo" comprises 30 questions that you must correctly answer in 35 minutes. It can be found at IMT or in private examination centers. If you are an international student, you can ask the IMT to translate your questions into English.
The test for driving practice or "exame of velocidade" is between 40 and 50 minutes. The test is driving through an urban area. You will be assessed by the instructor, the examiner, and a third person taking the exam. If you pass the practical test then the IMT will issue a certificate to you by mail.
In order to take the practical and theoretical exams you must take at least 28 theoretical classes and 16 practical classes. You can also opt to take your theory exam prior to completing the prescribed number of practical classes. You will need to pay for the practical classes separately.
If you don't have the money to buy a car or lease one, you can get one from a driving academy. You can test your driving skills without worrying about the expense of a new vehicle. Make sure you research all the schools in your area before settling on the best one. Verify the insurance policy of the car you are planning to rent prior to booking. If you don't possess the appropriate insurance, the rental company might decline your claim.