How to Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're moving to Portugal from another EU country The Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) recommends exchanging your license before you risk it getting lost or stolen. Here's how you can do it.
The process requires a medical exam. 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 practical and theory-based lessons. These lessons are held at government-licensed centres and taught by experienced instructors. It takes 28 hours of theory lessons and 32 practical lessons to complete the course. These classes are offered at various prices, however you can save money by enrolling in lessons in a group that cost less than EUR100.
The next step is to take the exam in the form of a theory test. This test is offered online and at public institutions and lasts about 30 minutes. The exam is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions that you need to solve using computers. The questions are based on the syllabus you were taught during your preparation classes. To pass the test, you have to complete 27 questions correctly.
After passing the theory test, you will need to pass the practical exam. You can take this test at private driving schools or at the IMT office. The test costs EUR30 and the IMT offers you a temporary driving licence until you get 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 notarize and authenticate documents for an additional fee.
To exchange your driving license from another country to the Portuguese one, you have to visit the Institute for Mobility and Transport office ("Instituto of Mobility and Transportes"). It is advised to arrive early because the office is typically busy. You should arrive at a minimum of an hour prior to the time that the office opens.
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 accessible to both Portuguese and non-Portuguese citizens. It also provides information about road traffic regulations and rules.
Requirements
If you are a resident of Portugal it is imperative that you exchange your driving license for one that is a Portuguese one. You could be fined heavily in the event of not doing so. The process is typically bureaucratic, so it's best to begin the process as when you have your residence permit. It's also essential to inform the institute of mobility that you'll use your previous license, as it is legally required.
You must visit an IMT with all required documents. Bring your driver's licence and proof of residence and residence card, as well as an examination for medical reasons. The IMT must enlist a physician to conduct the medical exam. The doctor will then issue a certificate that's specific to your license and send it to the IMT through their online medical certificate platform.
After you've completed all these documents, you'll be eligible to proceed to the driving test. The test takes between 40 and 50 minutes. The test will be conducted by an instructor, an examiner, and a third person taking the test. You'll be asked to drive both ways, so be prepared for an extremely long day!
If Comprar carta de condução da categoria C from a country that does not have an agreement bilaterally with Portugal in which case you'll need to submit the translation of your driver's licence. This must be done either by the issuing organization or the consular service. It should include categories that were derived through examination and those obtained by equivalents. Additionally, you'll require an assessment of psychological quality, which must be written by a licensed psychologist.
You must also submit a certified copy of your driving record from the United States, which must be authenticated. Here you can find the list of authorities in the state who are authorized to provide this service. This document is essential to the process of obtaining a driving license, as it can take up to a month to receive from the U.S. Furthermore, this process could be longer when the U.S. doesn't have a reciprocal arrangement with the European Union. Additionally, you must be aware that the IMT is often in need of staff, so the processing time can be lengthy.
Fees
The process of getting your first driver's license is expensive. The driving classes aren't free, and the practical exam can cost up to EUR250. It is crucial to begin the process as quickly as you can to get your new driving license before the deadline. You could be penalized for late payment for not submitting your application by the deadline.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online service that allows citizens to get a certificate. The new service is an excellent alternative to visiting the IMT offices in person, and is a great idea for those who want to cut down on time. The service is available to anyone who has a citizen card or mobile key, and permits drivers to save 10% off the fee that they normally have to pay at the IMT offices. The certificate, which has new design, is valid for six months and can be verified by reading the QR CODE or verification code.
Once you have your documents in order you can make a request for an exchange of your driving license. The IMT demands that you submit proof of your driving history. This can be obtained from the government, or a private driving coach. The embassy can assist with the process of obtaining this document, but you should ensure that the apostille has been placed on the document prior to sending it to the IMT.
If you're a resident of Portugal and a citizen of the EU or EEA you will need to exchange your driving licence for one of a Portuguese license within two years of having moved to Portugal. Along with your driving license, you will need to provide an unissued title document from your country of origin. The embassy will help you by legalising your document.
The test for theory is comprised of 30 multiple-choice answers and lasts approximately 30 minutes. You must get at least 27 right to pass. The questions are similar to the ones you will encounter in the preparation classes. The test is taken in a car, accompanied by an instructor and a candidate taking the test.
Timeframe
Be prepared to wait for an extended time if you plan to exchange your licence. Based on the country you reside in you may have to submit other documents. If you are unsure of what documents you need, it is best to look up the official website of the IMT.
The IMT introduces a brand new service called "My Driving License." This online platform lets you check the status of your driving licence and see when it is time to renew. The IMT has a mobile application that will help you start the process of converting your American drivers license for one in Portugal.
You can also report the theft or loss of your licence using the My Driving License platform. If you've lost or stolen your driving license you must turn it over to the IMT. You will receive a replacement after you have handed in the psychotechnical certificate.
After you have uploaded all of your required documents and received all the required documents, you will receive an email from the IMT to confirm that they have received your application. The IMT will process your application within a couple of weeks or days. After they have processed your application, you will be informed of the outcome via email or by phone. If your driver's license is not accepted, a certificate will be issued that will allow you drive (but only within Portugal). The IMT will then mail you a new Portuguese driving license via post.
It is recommended to make an appointment with the IMT when you first arrive in Portugal. You may have to wait for a long time if you don't schedule an appointment. It is recommended to carry your ID card and NIF number with you when you go.