Buy the IMT Driving License
If you are a non-EU citizen and are new to Portugal it is recommended that you change your driving license from a foreign country as soon as you can. If you do not, your license may be confiscated or canceled.
You'll require the following documents to complete your exchange: ID, an completed IMT Modelo 13 application, and proof of residency. You may be required to undergo an exam for medical conditions.
Cost
The cost for purchasing the IMT driving license varies based on whether you choose to take the test in person or online. The test costs EUR15 in person and lasts 30 minutes. It's comprised of 30 multiple choice questions that cover the syllabus you've learned in your preparatory classes. The test is conducted in Portuguese However, you can choose to have it translated into English. The IMT website lists private centers that offer this test.
The IMT also provides an online service for replacement of stolen or lost drivers' licenses. The website lets users register their request to receive an electronic certificate. You can then show the certificate at a police station and receive an additional license within 8 weeks. In addition, you may submit your request at an IMT desk in person. You'll need an ID document like a passport, a taxpayer number, a citizens card or a residence permit. In addition, you'll need to complete the Modelo 10 IMT Form.
It is essential to exchange your driver's license to one in Portugal. Portuguese one immediately after you have moved to Portugal. This will shield you from heavy fines if your foreign license gets lost or stolen. Additionally, you should get your new Portuguese license before the validity of your current one expires.
You can submit your application in person at an IMT office or via the internet. In-person visits are most common for more complex applications, such as ones that involve 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.
Unlike systems in other countries, the US doesn't have a central database of driving licenses. This means it may take longer for IMT to verify the authenticity of your driver's licence. You can prevent this issue by asking IMT to extend the temporary paper driver's licence if it is about to expire.
The process of exchanging your US driver's license to one that is a Portuguese one can be confusing and time-consuming. You must be prepared with all the necessary documentation before visiting an IMT branch. Also, you should bring cash if the office does not accept credit cards. Download the SIGA app on your phone to determine how many people are being handled at any given moment.
Requirements
You can swap a foreign driving license to the Portuguese license without having to take the Portuguese driving test. Nevertheless, the process can be a lengthy one. It is possible that you will need to organize your documents, but you will also have to attend preparation classes and take the theory test either at IMT or privately. To be able to take the driving test you must have completed 28 hours of theory classes and 32 hours of practical ones. These lessons are taught in government-approved centres. You can find the locations on the IMT website. The duration of these lessons is dependent on your availability and your progress.
In order to transfer your driver's license from another country, you must present an abstract of your driving record from the state where you had your last residence in the United States. The document must be apostilled or stamped to be valid in your application to IMT. The embassy will verify the certificate. You can also bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply online or in an IMT office near you. It's faster and less stressful. However, you'll require a proof of identity like your citizen card or taxpayer number in order to submit a request. If you're exchanging an international license, you'll also require your passport or resident permit.
The IMT offers a new service that permits drivers to request duplicate driving licenses online. This new service is convenient and could save you time and money. The IMT has launched a new website which allows drivers to upload their documents and even upload an image.
The institute also gives you the possibility of receiving an automatic notification when the time is the right time to renew your driving license. Besides that Comprar Carta de Condução da Categoria B1 informs you about the expiration date of your driving license and how to renew it.
Time frame
The process of obtaining your driver's license in Portugal can be lengthy. The IMT could take up to 30 days to process your request and can take even longer if you are applying during peak times. While waiting you are able to drive with a foreign license or a temporary permit.
You can track the status of your application online and follow its progress. However, some applications require an individual visit. In some cases, you can even submit the required documents from your country of origin, making the process much quicker.
If you're applying to exchange your EU driver's license, you must complete the process as soon as possible. This will protect your license from being lost or stolen while you're waiting for it to be processed. It's also important to obtain a Portuguese license before traveling abroad, since the IMT won't be able to replace your EU licence if it is stolen or lost in a different country.
Once you've completed your application, a medical examination is required. This is a straightforward test to confirm that you're mentally fit enough to drive a vehicle. This test doesn't contain bloodwork or stress tests and therefore should be simple to pass. The IMT website contains an official list of physicians who are approved for this test.
After passing your medical test and you are now able to begin prepping for both the practical and theory exams. The theory exam can be taken at the IMT or an examination center that is private however, you must have completed your preparatory classes prior to taking it. The practical test can be taken separately or as a part of the theory test. If you choose to take the test alongside the theory exam it is essential to ensure that you have your certificate of preparation present at the time of the test. You'll need to retake the test if you do not.
Insurance
If you're planning to move to Portugal in the near future, it is recommended to change your driver's license as soon as you can. In the event of delay, it could result in fines or a delay in getting your residence permit. It is best to exchange your residence permit within 90 days.
Whether you're an EU resident or not, you need to get a Certificate of Authenticity for your old license before exchanging it for an Portuguese one. This document can be obtained from the embassy in your country or consular services in Portugal.
You'll also need to pass a medical test. This exam is not as difficult as you think. This test involves blood tests and physical examination to confirm that you're able to drive safely. A medical doctor from a network can perform this test and costs about EUR25.