Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're a non-EU national and you are new to Portugal it is recommended that you change your driving license from a foreign country as soon as is possible. If you don't then, your license could be seized or canceled.
You'll need the following documents to complete your exchange: ID, an completed IMT Modelo 13 application, and proof of residence. You may also require an examination for medical reasons.
Cost
The cost of buying the IMT driving license is based on whether you want to take the test in person or online. The test costs EUR15 in person and lasts 30 minutes. Comprar carta de condução da categoria A consists of 30 multiple-choice questions and covers the syllabus you learned in preparation classes. The test is available in Portuguese or English. The IMT website provides a list of private centers that can offer the test.
The IMT provides online services to replace lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website allows citizens register their request for digital certificates. You can then present the certificate at a police station to receive a replacement license within eight weeks. Additionally, you can make your request at an IMT desk in person. You will require an ID document, such as a citizen card or taxpayer number, residence permit or passport and a completed Modelo 10 IMT form.
It's important to exchange your driver's license for a Portuguese one as soon as you can after you move to Portugal. You'll be protected from heavy penalties in the event that your foreign driver's license gets lost or stolen. Also, you should obtain your new Portuguese license before the validity of your previous one runs out.
You can make your request online or in person at a IMT office. In-person visits are the most common for complex applications such as those that require the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings can require additional documents, such as the translation of a foreign license or a copy from your home country.
As opposed to other countries unlike other countries, the US has no central database for driving licenses. This can mean that it will take longer for IMT to verify the authenticity of your driver's license. You can prevent this issue by asking IMT for an extension of your temporary paper driver's license in the event that it is soon to expire.
The process of changing your US driver's license for the Portuguese license is a complicated and long. It is important to make sure you have all the required documentation before going to an IMT branch. Also, you should bring cash in case the office does not accept credit cards. An excellent suggestion is to download an application called SIGA on your smartphone, which lets you know the number of people being dealt with and how long you'll need to wait.
Requirements
You can exchange a foreign driving license for the Portuguese license without taking the Portuguese driving test. However, the process could be a long one. It is possible that you will need to organize your documents, but you'll be required to attend preparatory classes and pass the theory test at IMT or privately. You must have completed 32 hours of instruction in practical classes and 28 hours of theory in order to be able to pass your driving test. These lessons are taught in government-approved centers. You can find the locations on the IMT website. The duration of these classes depends on your availability and the progress you make.
To exchange your driver's license from another country you must provide an abstract of your driving record from the state in which you last residence in the United States. The document must be apostilled or stamped in order to be valid in your application with IMT. The embassy will authenticate this certificate for you. You can bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply online or in an IMT office near you. The online application process is simpler and less stressful. But, you'll need an identification document such as a citizen card or taxpayer number to make the request. If you're exchanging an international license, you'll also require your passport or resident permit.
The IMT offers a new service that lets drivers request a duplicate driver's license online. This new service can save time and money, and is much more convenient than visiting an IMT office in person. The IMT has launched a new portal that allows drivers to upload their documents and can even provide a photo.
The institute also gives you the possibility of receiving an automatic notification when the time is the right time to renew your driving license. In addition, the IMT also informs you of the expiration date of your driving licence as well as how to renew it.
Time frame
Obtaining your driving license getting your driving license in Portugal can be a lengthy process. It can take as long as 30 days for the IMT to approve your application and longer during peak times. You can drive while you wait using your driving license issued by a foreign country or temporary permit.
You can check the status of an application online and follow its progress. However, some applications require an individual visit. In certain cases, you can even provide the required documents from your home country which makes the process easier.
It's important that you apply as quickly as you can when you're looking to exchange your EU driving license. This will stop your license from being stolen or lost while you wait for it to be processed. It's also important to obtain a Portuguese license prior to traveling abroad, as the IMT won't be able to replace your EU license if it's stolen or lost in a different country.
After you've submitted your application, you'll have to take a medical exam. This is a simple exam to determine if you are mentally fit to drive a car. It doesn't contain tests for stress or bloodwork and therefore should be simple to pass. The IMT website has an official list of physicians who are approved for this test.
After passing your medical examination you can now begin studying for the practical and theory exams. The theory test can be taken either at the IMT, or at a private exam centre. You must have attended the preparatory classes prior to taking. The practical test can be taken separately or as a part of the theory test. If you decide to take the test alongside the theory exam it is essential to ensure that you have your preparation class certificate present at the time of the test. You'll need to retake the exam if you don't.
Insurance
If you're planning to relocate to Portugal, make sure you obtain your driver's license replaced in the earliest time possible. Failing to do so could result in fines or a delay in obtaining your residence permit. It's also best to make the change within 90 days of receiving your residency permit.
Before you exchange your license to one that is a Portuguese license, you'll require an authentic Certificate of Authenticity. This document is available at the Embassy of your country or through consular services in Portugal.
You'll also have to pass a medical exam. This exam is not as difficult as you may think. It involves blood tests and a check-up to ensure you can safely drive. A doctor from a medical network can conduct this exam and costs about EUR25.