How to Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're planning to move to Portugal from an EU country, the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) recommends that you exchange your license before you risk it getting lost or stolen. Here's how to do it.
The process requires a medical exam. It is possible to order it online to save time.
How do I apply
To obtain an IMT license, you will be required to attend a series of theory and practical lessons. These lessons are taken at government-licensed centres and taught by certified instructors. It takes 28 hours of theory and 32 practical lessons to complete the course. The cost of these lessons is different but you can save money by signing up with an agency that provides group classes for less than EUR100.
The next step is to take the test in theory (exame de codigo). This test is offered on the internet and at public institutions, and it is about 30 minutes long. The exam is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions that you have to solve using a computer. The questions are based off the syllabus that you studied in your preparation classes. To pass the test, you must answer 27 questions correctly.
Once you have passed the theory test, you must take a practical test. You can take the test at private driving schools or at the IMT office. The test costs EUR30, and the IMT gives you a temporary driving licence while you wait for your licence.
You must have a valid passport, residence card or medical certificate as well as an attestation from your country of birth. The embassy can also authenticate and notarize documents for an additional fee.
To exchange your driving license from another country to the Portuguese one, you need to visit the Institute for Mobility and Transport office ("Instituto of Mobility and Transportes"). The office is usually busy, therefore it is recommended to go early. If possible, you should be there an hour before opening time.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes has launched an online platform that lets drivers determine when their license is due for renewal. The platform is available to both Portuguese and non-Portuguese citizens. It also provides information on road traffic regulations and rules.
Requirements
If you're a citizen of Portugal it is crucial to switch your driving license to a Portuguese one. You could be fined heavily in the event that you don't. This process is usually quite bureaucratic, so it's best to start as soon as you get your residence permit. It's also important to inform the institute of mobility that you'll be using your old license, as this is required by law.
You must visit an IMT with all the required documents. You must bring your driver's license, proof of address, a residence card and a medical exam. The IMT must enlist a physician to conduct the medical exam. The doctor will issue a specific certificate to your license and send it directly the IMT using their online medical certificate platform.
You can then proceed to the practical driving test. This test usually lasts 40 to 50 minutes. You will be accompanied by a teacher as well as the examiner and an additional person taking the test. Be prepared to spend a long time driving back and back.
If you're from a nation without a bilateral arrangement, you'll need to provide an official translation. This should be completed by the issuing agency or consular servisse, and it should indicate the categories obtained through an examination as well as those that were obtained by equivalence. You'll also need a psychological evaluation certificate, which should be drafted by an experienced psychologist.
You must also provide a certified abstract of your driving record from the United States, which must be authenticated. Here you can find an official list of the state authorities who are authorized to perform this service. This document is vital to the process of getting a driving license and can take up to a month to get from the U.S. This process can take even longer if there is no reciprocal agreement between the U.S. and the European Union. Also, take into account that the IMT is often in need of staff and the processing time can be lengthy.
Fees
Getting your first driver's license may be costly. Driving lessons aren't free, and the actual exam can cost up to EUR250. It is important to begin the process as soon as possible in order to get your new license before the deadline. You may be charged a late fee in the event that you do not submit your application by the deadline.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online service that allows residents to get an official certificate. The new service is a great alternative to visiting the IMT offices in person, and is a great idea for those who wish to save time. The service is accessible to anyone who has a citizen card or digital mobile key. It allows drivers to save 10% of the fee that they would otherwise pay at the IMT offices. The certificate, which is adorned with a an updated design is valid for six months and can be checked by reading the QR CODE.
Once you have your documents in order, you can file a request for an exchange of your driving license. The IMT requires you to provide proof of your driving history. This can be obtained from the government, or a private driving coach. The embassy can assist you to get this document. But, you must make sure that the apostille is visible on the document prior to sending it to the IMT.
If you are a resident of an EU or EEA country you have to exchange your driving license for one in Portugal. Portuguese one within two years of acquiring residence in the country. Along with your driving license you must bring the lost title document from your country of origin. The embassy can assist in this process by legalizing the document.
The test in theory consists of 30 multiple-choice responses and lasts approximately 30 minutes. To pass, you need to answer at least 27 of the 30 questions correctly. The questions are the same as those that are taught in preparation classes. The test is taken in a car, with an instructor and another candidate taking the test.
Timeframe
Be prepared to wait for a a long period of time if you plan to exchange your licence. Depending on your country you might need to submit additional documents. If you are unsure of what documents you need to submit, it is best to check the official website of the IMT.
The IMT has launched a brand new online service called "My Driving License" that allows you to check your driving license status and determine when it's time to renew. The IMT also has a mobile app that helps you start the process of converting your American drivers license for an Portuguese one.
You can also report the loss or theft of your license by using the My Driving License platform. If you have lost or stolen your driving licence, you must hand it over to the IMT. Once you have submitted the psychotechnical verification you will be issued the new driving license.
Cartao Expresso De Portugal will receive an email confirmation from the IMT once you have uploaded your documents. It will take some days or weeks for them to complete your application. After they have processed your application, you will be informed of the outcome via email or by phone. If your driver's licence is not accepted then you will be issued a paper that will allow you to drive (albeit within Portugal). The IMT will then send you a new Portuguese driving license by mail.
If you are arriving in Portugal it is best to make an appointment with the IMT. It is possible to wait for a while if you do not make an appointment. Bring your ID card as well as your NIF number with you.