How to Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're moving to Portugal from another EU country, the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) suggests that you change your license to avoid it being stolen or lost. Here's how you can do it.
A medical test is required to begin the process. You can order it online to speed up the process.
How to apply
The process of obtaining an IMT driving license entails taking the following theory and practical lessons. These lessons are held in government-licensed facilities and taught by experienced instructors. The course is made up of 28 hours of theory and 32 hours of practical lessons. These classes are offered at different prices, but you can save by signing up for classes in groups that cost less than 100 euros.
The next step is to take the theory test. The test is available online and at public institutions, and it takes about 30 minutes. The exam consists of 30 multiple-choice questions that you have to answer using a computer. The questions are based off the syllabus you learned during your preparation classes. You must get 27 of the questions right to pass the exam.
After you have passed the theory exam then you are required to take a test in the practical. The test can be taken at a private driving school or at the IMT. The exam costs EUR30 and the IMT gives you temporary driving licences until you get your license.
You must bring a valid passport or residence card, medical certificate, and an attestation of your driving license from the country of origin. The embassy is also able to authenticate and notarize documents for an additional cost.
To exchange your foreign driving license to a Portuguese one, you must visit the Institute for Mobility and Transport office ("Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes"). The office is usually busy, and it is recommended that you arrive early. It is recommended to arrive at least an hour before the time that the office opens.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes created an online platform to allow drivers to check their driving license renewal due date. The platform is available to both Portuguese and non-Portuguese citizens. It also provides information on road traffic rules and regulations.
Requirements
If you're a resident of Portugal it is imperative that you exchange your driving license to a Portuguese one. You could be fined heavily if you don't. It is recommended to begin this process as soon as you can after receiving your residence permit. It is also important to notify the institute of mobility and transport that you'll be using your previous license, as it is an obligation under the law.
The first step is to go to an IMT office with all the required documents. Bring your driver's licence as well as proof of residency, residence card, and an examination for medical reasons. The medical exam must be administered by a doctor who is registered with the IMT. The doctor will issue a certification specific to your license and forward it to the IMT through their online medical certificate platform.
Once you've filled out all of these documents, you can proceed to the practical driving test. The test typically lasts between 40 to 50 minutes. The test will be conducted by an instructor as well as the examiner and another person taking the exam. Be prepared to spend a lot of time driving back and back.
If you're a citizen of a country without a bilateral arrangement you'll need an official translation. This must be performed by the issuing agency or consular servisse, and it must indicate the categories that were obtained by examination and those obtained through equivalence. In addition, you'll require an assessment of psychological quality which has to be signed by an authorized psychologist.
You must also submit an authenticated, certified abstract of your United States driving record. You can find a list of state authorities that are designated to perform this service here. This document is vital to the process of obtaining a driving licence, since it can take a month to get the U.S. to deliver it. Furthermore, this process could be extended when the U.S. doesn't have a reciprocal arrangement with the European Union. Also, you should consider that the IMT could be understaffed and the processing time could be lengthy.
Fees
It can be expensive to get your first license. Comprar carta de condução da categoria A of the driving classes and the practical test could be as high as EUR250. However, it is important to start the process as soon as you can to ensure you get your new licence before the deadline. If you don't submit your application on time, you may have to pay a fine for late filing of your application.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online platform that allows citizens to get a certification. The new service is a great alternative to visiting the IMT offices in person and is a great option for those who wish to cut down on time. The service is open to all drivers with the digital mobile key or citizen card. It lets them save 10% off the fee they would have incurred at IMT offices. The certificate, which features a new design, is valid for 6 months and can be verified by reading the QR CODE.
Once you have your documents in order, you can make an application for the exchange of your driving licence. The IMT demands that you submit an account of your driving record. This can be obtained from the government or from a private driving instructor. The embassy can help you in getting this document, but you should make sure that the apostille is present on the document prior to submitting it to the IMT.
If you're a resident of Portugal and a citizen of the EU or EEA You will have to exchange your driving licence to one of a Portuguese license within two years of having moved to Portugal. Along with your driving licence, you will need to provide a lost title document from your country. The embassy can assist you by legalising your document.
The test in theory consists of 30 multiple-choice responses and lasts approximately 30 minutes. You must complete at least 27 correct answers to pass. The questions are the same as those that are taught in preparation classes. The test is conducted in a vehicle with an instructor and a candidate.
Timeframe
Be prepared to wait for a a long period of time if you plan to exchange your license. You may also be required to submit additional documents based on the country of your origin. If you're not sure of the documents you will require, you can look up the IMT website.
The IMT has launched a brand new online service called "My Driving License" that allows you to examine the status of your driving license and determine when it's time to renew. The IMT also has a mobile app that helps you start the process of exchanging your American drivers license for 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 have lost or stolen your driving licence You must hand it over to the IMT. After you have submitted the psychotechnical certification and you will receive an updated driving licence.
Once you have uploaded all your required documents, you will receive an email from the IMT confirming that they have received your application. It could take several days or weeks for them to complete your application. After Comprar carta de condução da categoria A have processed it and notified you of the results via email or by phone. If your driver's license is not accepted, a document will be issued that will allow you to drive (but only within Portugal). The IMT will mail you a new Portuguese driving license via postal mail.
It is recommended to make an appointment at the IMT the moment you arrive in Portugal. You might have to wait for a while if do not make an appointment. It is recommended to bring your ID card along with your NIF number when you visit.