Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're a non-EU national and new to Portugal you must change your driving license from a foreign country as soon as possible. If you don't, your license could be confiscated or revoked.
To complete your exchange, you'll need to provide the following documents: an ID as well as an completed IMT Modelo 13 form, and proof of residency. You may also require an examination for medical reasons.
Cost
The cost of the IMT driving licence varies based on whether you choose to take the theory test online or in person. In person, the test costs EUR15 and takes 30 minutes. It's comprised of 30 multiple choice questions that cover the syllabus you learned in your preparatory classes. The test is available in Portuguese or English. The IMT website has an extensive list of private centers that can offer the test.
The IMT also provides an online service to replace stolen or lost drivers' licenses. The website lets citizens submit their request for digital certificates. You can then present the certificate at a police station to receive an additional license within eight weeks. You could also submit your request in person at an IMT counter. You'll need a valid ID document, such as passport, a taxpayer number, a citizenship card or a residence permit. In addition, you'll need to complete the Modelo 10 IMT Form.
It is essential to change your foreign driver's license for a Portuguese one as soon as you can after moving to Portugal. You will be protected from heavy penalties if your foreign driver's license is stolen or lost. You should also get your new Portuguese driving license before your old one expires.
You can make your request online or in person at an IMT office. However, in-person visits are more common for applications with a lot of complexity which include the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings can require additional documentation, such as an original foreign license translated or a copy of the license from your home country.
As opposed to other countries, the US has no central database for driving licenses. It can take IMT longer to verify your driver's license. Fortunately you can circumvent this by asking IMT to extend your temporary paper license if it's about to expire.
The process of changing your US driver's license to a Portuguese license can be confusing and lengthy. It is important to make sure you have all the required documentation before visiting an IMT branch. Also, you should bring cash if the office does not accept credit cards. Download the SIGA application on your smartphone to see how many people are being dealt with at any given time.
Requirements
A foreign driver's license may be exchanged for an Portuguese driving license without having to pass the Portuguese driving test. However, the process could be a long one. You may have to organize your documents, but you'll be required to attend preparatory classes and then take the test in theory either at IMT or privately. You must have completed 32 hours of practical lessons and 28 hours of theory in order to be eligible for your driving test. These lessons are taught in government-approved centers. These centers are listed on the website of the IMT. The length of these lessons depends on your availability and progress.
In order to exchange your foreign driver's licence, you must present an abstract of your driving record from the state of your last residence in the United States. The document must be apostilled or stamped in order to be valid in your application to IMT. The embassy can authenticate the certificate for you. You can also bring it to an appointment in person with IMT.
You can apply online or at an IMT office close to you. The online method is easier and less stressful. You'll need an identification document, like your taxpayer number or citizen card, to submit an application. If you are exchanging an international driver's license, you will also need to bring your passport or resident permit.
The IMT offers an innovative service that permits drivers to request duplicate driving licenses online. This new option can save time and money, and is much more efficient than visiting an IMT office in person. The IMT has launched an online portal which allows drivers to upload their documents, and even upload an image.
Moreover, the institute offers the possibility of receiving an automatic notification when it's the appropriate time to renew your driving licence. In addition it also informs you of the IMT also informs you about the expiration date of your driving licence as well as how to renew it.
Time frame
The process for getting your driver's license in Portugal isn't easy and can take a long time. The IMT could take up to 30 days to process your request, and even longer if you're applying during peak periods. You can drive while you wait using your foreign driving license or temporary permit.
You can check the status of an application online and track its progress. However, some applications require a personal visit. In some cases, you can even submit the required documents from your home country which makes the process easier.
It's important that you apply as soon as possible if you want to exchange your EU driving license. This will prevent your license from being lost or stolen while you're waiting for it to be processed. It's also crucial to obtain an Portuguese licence before traveling abroad. The IMT cannot replace your EU license if it's stolen or lost in a different country.
After you've submitted your application, a medical exam is required. This is a simple test to confirm that you're mentally able to operate an automobile. It doesn't contain any blood tests or a stress test and therefore should be easy to pass. The IMT website contains a list of doctors certified to conduct this test.
After passing your medical exam then you can begin prepping for both the practical and theory exams. The theory test can be taken at the IMT or a private examination center but you must have completed your preparatory classes prior to taking the exam. The practical test can be taken separately or in conjunction with the theory exam. If you decide to take the practical test in conjunction with the theory test it is essential to ensure that you have your preparation class certificate at the time of the test. You'll need to retake the test if you don't.
Insurance
If you plan to move to Portugal in the near future, you must exchange your driver's license as soon as you are able to. Failure to do so can result in fines and delay of your residence permit. It is also recommended that you complete the change within 90 days of receiving your residency permit.
Before you can exchange your old license to one that is a Portuguese license, you will need the Certificate of Authenticity. Comprar carta de condução da categoria A can be obtained at the embassy of your country or consular services in Portugal.
You'll also need to pass a medical exam. Fortunately, this test isn't as lengthy as you may think. It consists of bloodwork and a check-up that will ensure that you are able to drive safely. A medical doctor from a network can perform this test and costs about EUR25.