How to Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're moving to Portugal from an EU country, the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) recommends exchanging your license to avoid it being stolen or lost. Here's how you can do it.
A medical exam is required to begin the process. You can purchase it online to speed up the process.
How do I apply
The process of getting an IMT driving license involves taking the following theoretical and practical classes. The classes are taught by experienced instructors in government-licensed centres. The course is made up of 28 hours of theory and 32 hours of practical lessons. These classes are offered at different prices, but you can save by enrolling in classes in groups that cost less than $100.
The next step is to take the test in theory (exame de codigo). The test is available online or in public institutions and takes about 30 minutes. It is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions that you must answer using the computer. The questions are in line with the syllabus you were taught in your preparation classes. To pass the test, you must answer correctly 27 questions.
After passing the theory test, you'll need to pass the practical exam. You can take the test at private driving schools or at the IMT office. Comprar a carta de condução do IMT EUR30, and the IMT will issue you with a a temporary driver's licence to use while waiting for your new licence.
You must carry an authentic passport or residence card, a medical certificate and an attestation of your driving license from the country of origin. Comprar carta de condução da categoria C will also authenticate and notarize documents for a fee.
To exchange your driving license from another country to one that is a Portuguese one, you need to go to the Institute for Mobility and Transport office ("Instituto of Mobility and Transportes"). The office is typically busy, therefore it is recommended to start early. You should arrive at least an hour prior to the time that the office opens.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes has launched an online platform that allows drivers to determine when their license is due to renew. The platform is accessible by both Portuguese and foreign citizens as well as foreign. It also provides information on road traffic rules and regulations.
Requirements
If you're a resident of Portugal it is crucial to swap your driving license for a Portuguese one as soon as possible. You could be fined heavily if you don't. It is best to begin this process as soon as you can after receiving your residence permit. It is also essential to inform the institute of mobility that you will use your previous license, as it is legally required.
The first step is to visit an IMT office with all the required documents. Bring your driver's license, proof of address, residence card, and medical exam. The IMT must authorize a doctor to conduct the medical exam. The doctor will issue a specific certificate to your license and send it directly the IMT via their online medical certificate platform.
The next step is the driving test. The test typically lasts between 40 to 50 minutes. You will be accompanied with an instructor, an examiner and a third person taking the test. Be prepared to spend a considerable time driving back and forth.
If you're a citizen of a country without a bilateral agreement then you'll have to provide an official translation. This is required either by the issuing organization, or by the consular service. It should include the categories that were determined through a test and those that were acquired by equivalents. Additionally, you'll require a psychological assessment certificate that must be signed by an authorized 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 authorities in the state who are authorized to provide this service. This document is vital to the process of getting a driving licence as it can take a month to get the U.S. to mail it. Furthermore, this process could be even longer if the U.S. doesn't have a reciprocal arrangement with the European Union. Additionally, you must take into account that the IMT is often in need of staff and therefore the processing time could be lengthy.
Fees
The process of getting your first driver's license is expensive. Driving classes are not free, and the actual exam can cost up to EUR250. It is essential to start the process as fast as you can in order to get your new license before the deadline. If you fail to do this, you might have to pay a fine for late filing of your application.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online service that allows residents to obtain a certificate. This new service is a great alternative to going to IMT offices and is ideal for those looking to save time. The service is open to all drivers who possess the digital mobile key or citizen card. It allows them to save 10% off the cost they would have paid at IMT offices. The certificate, which is designed with a new design and is valid for six months and can be verified by scanning the QR CODE or verification code.
Once you have your documents in order you can submit an application for an exchange of driving license. You must submit the IMT with a copy of your driving history. You can obtain this from the government or a private driving school. The embassy can assist you to get this document. However, you must ensure that the apostille appears on the document prior to submitting it to the IMT.
If you are a citizen of an EU or EEA country you must exchange your driving license for one that is a Portuguese one within two years of taking up residence in the country. You must provide a lost title certificate from the country of origin together with your driving license. The embassy will help you with legalizing your document.
The theory test is composed of 30 multiple-choice questions and lasts approximately 30 minutes. You must answer at least 27 correct answers to pass. The questions are similar to those on the preparation classes. The test is taken in a car, accompanied by an instructor and another candidate taking the test.
Timeframe
If you are looking to transfer your driving licence be prepared for for a long time. Depending on the country in which you reside, you may need to provide additional documents. If you're not sure what documents you need to submit, it is best to look up the official website of the IMT.
The IMT has launched a new service dubbed "My Driving License." This platform online allows you to check the status of your driving licence and determine when it is time to renew. The IMT offers a mobile application which will assist you in the process of exchange your American drivers license for one from Portugal.
You can also report the theft or loss of your license using the My Driving License platform. If you've lost your license, you'll have to give it back to the IMT. After you have submitted the psychotechnical certificate and you will receive an updated driving licence.
You will receive an email confirmation from the IMT once you have uploaded your documents. It will take some days or weeks for them to process your application. Once they have processed it, they will notify you of the results via email or by phone. If your driver's license is not accepted and you are not accepted, you will receive the paper that allows you to drive (albeit within Portugal). The IMT will send you a new Portuguese driving license by post.
If you are arriving in Portugal, it's best to make an appointment with the IMT. You might have to wait for a while if you don't make an appointment. It's important to carry your ID card and NIF number with you when you go.