How to Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're planning to move to Portugal from another EU country The Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) recommends that you exchange your license before you risk it getting lost or stolen. Here's how you can do it.
The procedure involves the taking of a medical exam. The good news is that you can apply online and speed up the process.
How do I apply
To obtain an IMT license, you will need to take a series theory and practical lessons. The lessons are taught at government-licensed centres and taught by experienced instructors. It takes 28 hours of theory lessons and 32 practical lessons to complete the course. The cost of these classes differs however, you can save money by signing up with an agency that offers group lessons for less than 100 euros.
The next step is to take the test in theory (exame de codigo). This test can be taken online or at public institutions and lasts approximately 30 minutes. It consists of 30 multiple-choice questions to complete on the computer. The questions are based on the syllabus you learned in your preparation classes. To pass the test, you need to answer correctly 27 questions.
Once you have passed the theory exam then you are required to take a practical exam. You can take the test at private driving schools or at the IMT office. The exam costs EUR30 and the IMT offers you a temporary driving licence until you get your licence.
You must bring a valid passport or residence card, medical certificate, and an attestation of your driving license from your country of origin. The embassy will also authenticate and notarize your documents for a fee.
To exchange your foreign driver's license to a Portuguese driving licence, you will need go to the Institute for Mobility and Transport ("Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes") office. It is recommended to arrive early because the office is usually packed. You should arrive at least an hour prior to the time that the office opens.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes launched an online platform that allows drivers to verify their driving license renewal date. The platform is accessible by both Portuguese and foreign citizens. It also provides information about road traffic rules and regulations.
Requirements
If you're a resident of Portugal, it is essential to exchange your driving license for one that is a Portuguese one. Otherwise, you could face severe penalties. It is best to start this process as soon as you are able after receiving your residence permit. It is also essential to inform the institute of mobility that you'll be using your old license, since this is legally required.
You must go to an IMT with all the required documents. Bring your driver's license as well as proof of address, residence card and a medical exam. The IMT must authorize a doctor to conduct the medical examination. The doctor will issue a specific certificate to your license and send it directly to the IMT using their online medical certificate platform.
Once you've filled out all of these documents, you can take the driving test. The test typically lasts between 40 to 50 minutes. You will be accompanied by a teacher along with the examiner as well as another person who is taking the test. Be prepared to spend a considerable time driving back and forth.
If you are from a country that does not have a bilateral agreement with Portugal, you will need to provide a certified translation of your driver's licence. This must be done either by the issuing organization, or by the consular service. It should include the categories that were obtained through examination and those obtained via the process of equivalence. You'll also require a psychotherapy evaluation certificate, which needs to be written by psychologist.
You will also need to provide an authenticated, certified abstract of your United States driving record. Here you can find a list with state authorities who are authorized to conduct this service. This document is crucial to the process of getting a driving license and could take up to a month to get from the U.S. The process could take longer if there isn't a reciprocal agreement between the U.S. and the European Union. Also, you should be aware that the IMT could be understaffed and the processing time can be lengthy.
Fees
It isn't cheap to obtain your first driving license. Driving classes are not free, and the actual exam can cost you up to EUR250. It is essential to start the process as fast as you can to get your new license before the deadline. You may be charged a late fee if you fail to submit 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 looking to reduce time. Comprar Carta de Condução da Categoria B1 is open to all drivers who have the digital mobile key or a citizen card. It allows them to save 10% off the cost they would have paid at IMT offices. The certificate, which features an updated design, is valid for a period of six months and can be verified by reading the QR CODE or verification code.
Once you have all your documents in order, you can make an application for the exchange of a driving license. You must provide the IMT with proof of driving history. This can be obtained from the government, or a private driving instructor. The embassy can assist you in getting this document, however, you must ensure that the apostille is present 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 moving here. You'll need to submit the lost title certificate from the country of origin, together with your driving license. The embassy can help you in this process by legalizing the document.
The theory test is composed of 30 multiple-choice answers and takes about 30 minutes. You must answer at least 27 right to pass. The questions are identical to those that are taught in preparation classes. The test is taken in the car, with an instructor and a candidate taking the test.
Timeframe
If you're looking to exchange your driving licence be prepared to wait an extended period. You may also be required to submit additional documents depending on your country of origin. If you're unsure what documents you will require, make sure to go to the IMT website.
The IMT is introducing a new service called "My Driving License." This platform online allows you to check the status of your driving license and determine when it is time to renew it. The IMT also has an app on mobile that can help you get started with the process of changing your American drivers license to an Portuguese one.
You can also make use of the My Driving License platform to report theft or loss of your driving license. If you've lost or taken your license, you'll have to hand it over at the IMT. Once you have submitted the psychotechnical certificate, you will receive a new driving licence.
You will receive an email from the IMT after you have uploaded your documents. It will take a few days or weeks for them to complete your application. After they have processed it and notified you of the results via email or phone. If your driver's licence is not accepted, a document will be issued that will allow you to drive (but only within Portugal). The IMT will then send you a new Portuguese driving license via post.
When you arrive in Portugal it is best to schedule an appointment with the IMT. You might have to wait for a while if do not make an appointment. Bring your ID card as well as your NIF number with you.