How to Buy the IMT Driving License
The Institute of Mobility and Transport recommends that you swap your license before it is lost or stolen if moving to Portugal from another EU member state. Here's how you can do it.
The process involves a medical exam. Here's the good news - you can apply online and save time.
How to Apply
The process to obtain an IMT driving license entails taking the following theory and practical lessons. These lessons are taken in government-licensed facilities and taught by qualified instructors. It takes 28 hours of theory lessons and 32 practical lessons to complete the course. The classes are offered at different prices, but you can save by enrolling in lessons in a group that cost less than $100.
The next step is to take the test in theory (exame de codigo). The test is available online and at public institutions and is about 30 minutes long. The exam consists of 30 multiple choice questions that you have to solve using a computer. The questions are based on the syllabus you learned in your preparation classes. You must get 27 of the questions correct to pass the exam.
After passing the theory test, you'll be required to pass the practical exam. The test can be taken at a private driving school or at the IMT. The exam costs EUR30, and the IMT will provide you with an interim driver's license to use while you wait to get your new licence.
You must have an authentic 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 cost.
To exchange your foreign driving licence to one that is a Portuguese one, you need to go to the Institute for Mobility and Transport office ("Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes"). It is recommended to arrive early because the office is typically packed. It is recommended to 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 lets drivers check when their driving license is due for renewal. The platform is accessible to both Portuguese and non-Portuguese citizens. It also provides information about road traffic rules and regulations.
Requirements
If you're a resident in Portugal it is essential to exchange your driving licence to one that is a Portuguese one as soon as possible. Otherwise, you could face severe penalties. The process is typically bureaucratic, so it's best to begin the process as soon as you get your residence permit. Also, it's important to notify the institute of mobility and transportation that you'll be using your old licence, as this is a legal requirement.
You must visit an IMT with all required documents. Bring your driver's license and proof of address, residence card and a medical exam. The medical exam must be conducted by a doctor who is registered with the IMT. The doctor will issue a certificate specific to your license and send it directly the IMT using their online medical certificate platform.
You will then be able to take the driving test. The test takes between 40 and 50 minutes. The test will be conducted by an instructor, an examiner, and another person who is taking the test. You'll be required to drive going and returning, so be prepared for an extended day!
If you're a citizen of a country without a bilateral arrangement you'll need an official translation. This can be done by the issuing entity, or by the consular service. It should contain the categories that were derived through examination and those obtained via equivalents. You'll also require a psychological evaluation certificate, which needs to be written by psychologist.
It is also necessary to provide a certified abstract of your driving record from the United States, which must be authenticated. Here is a list with authorities in the state who are authorized to conduct this service. This document is vital to the driving license process and can take up to a month to receive from the U.S. The process can take longer if there's no reciprocal agreement between the U.S. and the European Union. It is also important to consider that the IMT may be insufficiently staffed, and the processing time may be long.
Fees
The first time you get your driver's license can be expensive. The driving classes aren't free, and the practical test can cost up to EUR250. It is nevertheless important to start the process as soon as possible to ensure you get your new license before the deadline. If you fail to do this, you might have to pay a fine for late submission of your application.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport launched an online service to allow citizens to obtain an IMT certification. The new service is a great alternative to visiting the IMT offices in person, and is a great option for those looking to reduce time. The service is available to anyone with a Citizen card or digital mobile key. It allows drivers to save 10% off the fee that they would otherwise pay at the IMT offices. The certificate, which features new design is valid for six months and can be checked by reading the QR CODE.
Once you have all your documents in order, you can make an application for the exchange of a driving license. The IMT requires that you provide an account of your driving history. This can be obtained through the government or a private driving school. The embassy can help you obtain this document. However, you must make sure that the apostille is visible on the document prior to sending it to the IMT.
If you're a citizen of an EU or EEA country you have to change your driving license to a Portuguese one within two years of taking up residence in the country. You will need to provide an unissued title certificate from your country of origin together with your driving license. The embassy can help you in this process by certifying the document.
The test for theory comprises 30 multiple-choice questions that last about 30 minutes. To pass, you must be able to answer at least 27 of the 30 questions correctly. The questions are similar to those that are taught in preparation classes. The test is taken in a car, with an instructor and a candidate taking the test.
Timeframe
If you are looking to exchange your driving licence be prepared for for a long time. Based on the country you reside in you may have to provide additional documents. If Comprar carta de condução categoria B 're not sure what documents you need, it is recommended to visit the official website of the IMT.
The IMT has launched a new service called "My Driving License." This online platform allows you to view the status of your driver's license and to determine when it's time for you to renew. The IMT offers a mobile application that can help you begin the process of exchange your American drivers license for one in Portugal.
You can also use the My Driving License platform to report theft or loss of your driving license. If you've lost or taken your licence, you need to hand it over at the IMT. Once you have submitted the psychotechnical verification and you will receive the new driving license.
Once you have uploaded all of your required documents, you will receive an email from the IMT confirming that they have received your application. It will take a few days or weeks for them to review your application. Once they have processed it, they will notify you of the results via email or phone. If your driver's license is not accepted then you will be issued a paper that will allow you to drive (albeit within Portugal). The IMT will then mail you a new Portuguese driving licence by post.
It's best to schedule an appointment at the IMT the moment you arrive in Portugal. If you don't have an appointment, you might need to wait a while to be seen. It's recommended to carry your ID card and NIF number when you visit.