How to Buy the IMT Driving License
The Institute of Mobility and Transport suggests that you change your license before it gets lost or stolen if you're moving to Portugal from an EU member state. Here's how to do it.
A medical exam is required to start the process. This is a good thing - you can apply online and save time.
How do I apply
To obtain an IMT license, you'll be required to attend a series of in theory and practical courses. The lessons are taught at government-licensed centres and taught by certified instructors. The course consists of 28 hours of theory and 32 hours of hands-on lessons. The cost of these classes varies but you can save money by joining an agency that offers group classes for less than 100 euros.
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 takes about 30 minutes. The test consists of 30 multiple-choice questions that you have to answer with a computer. The questions are based on the syllabus that you studied during 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 take the practical exam. You can take this test at a private driving school or at the IMT office. The test costs EUR30 and the IMT provides you with temporary driving licences until you get your license.
You must bring an authentic passport or residence card, medical certificate, and an attestation of your driving license from the country of origin. The embassy will also authenticate and notarize documents for cost.
To exchange your foreign driver's license for a Portuguese driving licence, you will need to go to the Institute for Mobility and Transport ("Instituto of Mobility and Transportes") office. The office is typically busy, so it is recommended that you arrive early. If you are able, arrive an hour prior to the opening time.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes created an online platform to allow drivers to verify their driving license renewal date. The platform can be used by both Portuguese and foreign citizens. It also provides information about road traffic regulations and rules.
Requirements
If you are a resident of Portugal, it is essential to switch your driving license for one that is a Portuguese one. Otherwise, you'll be facing severe fines. It is recommended to start this process as soon as you are able after receiving your residence permit. It's also essential to inform the institute of mobility that you will use your previous license, since this is required by law.
You must go to an IMT with all the necessary documents. Bring your driver's licence, proof of residence and residence card, as well as a medical examination. The medical exam should be conducted by a doctor who is registered with the IMT. The doctor will issue a specific certificate to your license and send it directly the IMT through their online medical certificate platform.
Once you've filled out all of these documents, you'll be eligible to take the practical driving test. The test will last between 40 and 50 minutes. The test will be conducted by a teacher along with the examiner as well as an additional person taking the test. Be prepared to spend a long time driving back and back.
If you're from a country that does not have a bilateral agreement with Portugal in which case you'll need to submit a certified translation of your driver's licence. This can be done by the issuing organization, or by the consular service. It should include the categories that were determined through examination and those obtained through equivalents. Additionally, you'll require a psychological assessment certificate which has to be signed by an authorized psychologist.
You should also submit a certified abstract of your driving record from the United States, which must be authenticated. You can find the list of state authorities who are authorized to provide this service here. This document is essential to the process of obtaining a driving licence, since it can take a month for the U.S. to mail it. This process can take even longer if there's no reciprocal agreement between the U.S. and the European Union. Also, take into account that the IMT is often understaffed and the processing time may be long.
Fees
The first time you get your driver's license may be costly. The driving classes aren't free, and the actual exam can cost up to EUR250. It is nevertheless crucial to begin the process as soon as possible so that you can receive your new license before the deadline. You may be penalized for late payment for not submitting your application in time.
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 idea for those who wish to reduce time. The service is accessible to all drivers who possess the digital mobile key or a citizen card. It allows them to save 10% off the fee they would have incurred at IMT offices. The certificate, which has an updated design and is valid for 6 months and can be checked by scanning the QR CODE.
Once you have your documents in order, you can file an application for an exchange of your driving license. The IMT requires you to provide a record of your driving record. This can be obtained from the government or from a private driving school. The embassy can assist you to get this document. However, Comprar carta de condução da categoria C need to ensure that the apostille appears on the document prior to submitting it to the IMT.
If you are a resident of Portugal and are a citizen of the EU or EEA, you will need to exchange your driving licence to a Portuguese license within two years after moving here. Along with your driving license you must present an unissued title document from your country of origin. The embassy can assist in this process by legalizing the document.
The test for theory comprises 30 multiple-choice tests and lasts around 30 minutes. You must complete at least 27 questions right to pass. The questions are similar to the ones in preparation classes. The test is taken in a car, accompanied by an instructor and a candidate taking the test.
Timeframe
If you're planning to exchange your driving license, be prepared to wait for a long time. Based on the country you reside in you may have to submit additional documents. If you're not sure what documents you'll require, you can check the IMT website.
The IMT introduces a brand new service called "My Driving License." This online platform allows you to check the status of your driver's license and to determine when it's time to renew it. The IMT provides a mobile app which will assist you in the process of converting your American drivers license for one in Portugal.
You can also make use of the My Driving License platform to report theft or loss of your driving license. If you have lost or stolen your driving licence you must turn it over to the IMT. Once you have submitted the psychotechnical verification, you will receive a new driving licence.
You will receive an email from the IMT once you have uploaded your documents. The IMT will review your application within a few weeks or days. After they have processed your application, you will be informed of the outcome via either email or telephone. If your driver's license is not accepted, a certificate will be issued that will permit you to drive (but only within Portugal). The IMT will send you your new Portuguese driving license via postal mail.
It's best to schedule an appointment with the IMT when you first arrive in Portugal. If you don't have an appointment, you might have to wait for a while to be seen. Bring your ID card and your NIF number.