How to Buy the IMT Driving License
The Institute of Mobility and Transport suggests that you change your license before it is lost or stolen if you are moving to Portugal from an EU member state. Here's how you can do it.
The procedure involves the taking of a medical exam. This is a good thing - you can request it online and avoid waiting.
How do I apply
To get an IMT license, you will need to take a series theory and practical lessons. These lessons are taught by qualified instructors in centres that are licensed by the government. The course consists of 28 hours of theory and 32 hours of practical lessons. The cost of these classes differs however, you can save money by signing up with an agency that offers group lessons for less than EUR100.
The next step is to take the test in theory (exame de codigo). This exam is available on the internet and at public institutions, and lasts about 30 minutes. It consists of 30 multiple choice questions to complete on your computer. The questions are based off the syllabus that you studied during your preparation classes. You must answer 27 of the questions correct to pass the exam.
After you have passed the theory test and passed the theory test, you will need to take a practical exam. This test can be conducted at a driving school that is private or at the IMT. The test costs EUR30 and the IMT provides you with temporary driving licences until you get your license.
You need to have a valid passport, residence card or medical certificate as well as an attestation from the country of birth. The embassy will also authenticate and notarize documents at an additional fee.
To exchange your foreign driving licence to one that is a Portuguese one, you must visit the Institute for Mobility and Transport office ("Instituto of Mobility and Transportes"). It is advised to arrive early because the office is usually very crowded. If you can, be there an hour before opening time.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes has launched an online platform that allows drivers to determine when their license is due to renew. Cartao Expresso De Portugal is accessible by both Portuguese and foreign citizens as well as foreign. It also provides information about road traffic regulations and rules.
Requirements
If you're a citizen of Portugal it is crucial that you exchange your driving license for one that is a Portuguese one. Otherwise, you could face heavy fines. The process is generally bureaucratic, so it's best to start as soon as you get your residence permit. It is also essential to inform the institute of mobility that you'll be using your old license, since this is required by law.
The first step is to visit an IMT office with all the required documents. Bring your driver's license and proof of address, a residence card, and a medical examination. The IMT must authorize a doctor to conduct the medical exam. The doctor will then issue a certificate that's specific to your license. Then, they send it to the IMT via their online medical certificate platform.
The next step is the driving test. The test typically lasts between 40 to 50 minutes. You will be accompanied by a teacher as well as the examiner and an additional person taking the test. You'll be required to drive going and returning so be prepared for an extremely long day!
If you're from a country that does not have a bilateral agreement then you'll have to provide an official translation. This should be performed by the issuing entity or consular servisse. It should indicate the categories obtained through an examination as well as those obtained through equivalence. In addition, you'll require a psychological assessment certificate that must 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. Here is an official list of the state authorities that are authorized to perform this service. This document is essential to the process of getting a driving licence and it could take a month for the U.S. to send it. Moreover, this process can be extended when the U.S. doesn't have a reciprocal agreement with the European Union. Also, take into account that the IMT is often understaffed and the processing time can be long.
Fees
It can be expensive to get your first driver's license. The cost of driving classes and the test on the road can be as high as EUR250. It is nevertheless important to start the process as soon as you can so that you can receive your new licence before the deadline. If you fail to do this, you might have to pay a penalty for late filing of your application.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online service that allows citizens to obtain an official certificate. This new service is a great alternative to visiting IMT offices and is perfect for those who want to cut down on time. The service is available to anyone with a Citizen card or mobile key and allows drivers to save 10% of the fee that they would otherwise have to pay at the IMT offices. The certificate, which has an updated design is valid for a period of six months and can be verified by scanning the QR CODE or verification code.
Once you have all of your documents in order, you can make an application for the exchange of your driving license. The IMT requires you to provide proof of your driving history. You can obtain this through the government or a private driving school. The embassy can help you obtain this document. However, you need to make sure that the apostille is visible on the document prior to submitting it to the IMT.
If you are a resident of an EU or EEA country you have to exchange your driving license for one in Portugal. Portuguese one within two years of acquiring residence in the country. You must provide the lost title certificate from your country of origin together with your driving licence. The embassy can help you in this process by certifying the document.
The test in theory consists of 30 multiple-choice questions and lasts for approximately 30 minutes. You must answer at least 27 correct answers to pass. The questions are similar to the ones you will encounter in the preparation classes. The test is taken in the car, with an instructor and another candidate taking the test.
Timeframe
Be prepared to wait for an extended period of time if you wish to exchange your license. Based on the country you reside in you may have to provide additional documents. If you aren't sure what documents you need, it is recommended to visit the official website of the IMT.
The IMT has launched a new online service dubbed "My Driving License" that lets you examine the status of your driving license and determine when it's time to renew. The IMT also offers a mobile app that helps you begin the process of converting your American drivers license for one in Portugal. Portuguese one.
You can also report the theft or loss of your license by using the My Driving License platform. If you have lost or stolen your driving license you must turn it over to the IMT. You will be issued a replacement after you've submitted the psychotechnical certificate.
Once you have uploaded all of your required documents, you will receive an email from the IMT informing you that they have received your application. It will take some days or weeks for them to complete your application. After they have processed your application you will be notified of the results by email or by phone. If your driver's license is not accepted, you will be given a paper that will allow you to drive (albeit within Portugal). The IMT will send you your new Portuguese driving license via postal mail.
It is recommended to make an appointment at the IMT when you first arrive in Portugal. You may have to wait for a long time if you don't schedule an appointment. It's recommended to bring your ID card and NIF number when you visit.