How to Buy the IMT Driving License
The Institute of Mobility and Transport recommends that you exchange your license before it is lost or stolen if moving to Portugal from an EU member state. Here's how to do it.
The process requires the taking of a medical exam. The good news is that you can apply online and avoid waiting.
How to apply
To get an IMT license, you will be required to attend a series of theoretical and practical classes. These lessons are taught by certified instructors at government-licensed centers. The course consists of 28 hours of theory and 32 hours of practical lessons. The cost of these lessons differs but you can save money by joining an agency that offers group classes for less than $100.
The next step is to take the theory test. The test is available online or at public institutions and lasts around 30 minutes. It consists of 30 multiple-choice questions that you have to answer using your computer. The questions are based off the syllabus you were taught in your preparatory classes. To pass the test, you need to complete 27 questions correctly.
After you have passed the theory exam then you are required to take a practical exam. You can take this test at private driving schools or at the IMT office. The test costs EUR30, and the IMT provides you with temporary driving license while you wait for 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 documents at cost.
To exchange your foreign driving licence for one that is a Portuguese one, you have to go to the Institute for Mobility and Transport office ("Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes"). The office is usually busy, so it is advised to start early. If you can, go one hour before the opening time.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes launched an online platform that allows drivers to check their driver's license renewal due date. The platform is accessible by both Portuguese and foreign citizens. It also provides information about road traffic rules and regulations.
Comprar a carta de condução do IMT
If you're a resident of Portugal, it's essential to change your driving license to one in Portuguese one whenever you can. If you don't, you could be subject to severe fines. It is recommended to start this process as soon as you can when you have received your residence permit. It is also important to inform the institute of mobility and transport that you'll be using your old license, as it is legally required.
You must visit an IMT with all required documents. Bring your driver's licence as well as proof of residency or residence card, as well as an examination for medical reasons. The IMT must register a physician to conduct the medical exam. The doctor will issue a specific certificate to your license, and then 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 practical driving test. The test typically lasts 40 to 50 minutes. You will be accompanied by a teacher along with the examiner as well as an additional person taking the test. You'll be asked to drive going and returning, so be prepared for a long day!
If you're from a nation without a bilateral arrangement then you'll have to provide an official translation. This must be done by the issuing agency or consular servisse. It must include the categories derived by examination and those that were obtained by equivalent means. You'll also require a psychotherapy evaluation certificate, which needs to be drafted by an experienced psychologist.
You must also submit an authenticated certified abstract of your United States driving record. Here is the list of authorities in the state who are authorized to conduct this service. This document is vital to the process of obtaining a driving licence, since it can take up to a month for the U.S. to mail it. Furthermore, this process could be even longer in the event that the U.S. doesn't have a reciprocal agreement with the European Union. Also, you should consider that the IMT may be insufficiently staffed, and the processing time could be long.
Fees
The first time you get your driver's license may be costly. Driving lessons aren't free, and the practical test can cost up to EUR250. However, it is important to start the process as soon as possible to ensure you get your new licence before the deadline. If you don't then, you could be required to pay a penalty for late filing of your application.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online service that will allow citizens to obtain a certification. The new service is an excellent alternative to visiting the IMT offices in person, and is a great option for those who wish to reduce time. The service is open to all drivers with a digital mobile key or a citizen card. It allows them to save 10% off the cost they would have incurred at IMT offices. The certificate, which is adorned with a an updated design is valid for six months and can be checked by reading the QR CODE.
Once you have your documents in order you can file an application for the exchange of driving license. You must submit the IMT with proof of driving history. This can be obtained from the government or from a private driving instructor. The embassy can assist with the process of getting this document, however, you must ensure that the apostille has been placed on the document before sending it to the IMT.
If you are a resident of an EU or EEA country, you must change your driving license to one that is a Portuguese one within two years of acquiring residency in the country. You will need to provide the lost title certificate from your country of origin, along with your driving license. The embassy can help you in this process by certifying the document.
The test for theory is comprised of 30 multiple-choice answers and lasts for approximately 30 minutes. You must complete at least 27 questions right to pass. The questions are similar to those in preparation classes. The test is taken in a car, accompanied by an instructor and another candidate taking the test.
Timeframe
If you're looking to transfer your driving licence be prepared to wait an extended period. Depending on the country in which you reside you may have to provide additional documents. If you're not sure what documents you will require, you can check the IMT website.
The IMT has launched a brand new online service dubbed "My Driving License" that lets you verify the status of your driver's license and determine when it's time to renew. The IMT provides a mobile app which will assist you in the process of exchanging an American drivers license for one from Portugal.
You can also report the loss or theft of your licence using the My Driving License platform. If you've 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.
You will receive an email from the IMT after you have uploaded your documents. It could take a few days or weeks for them to process your application. Once they have processed your application and notified you of the results via email or phone. If your driver's license is not accepted, a new document will be issued to permit you to drive (but only within Portugal). The IMT will send you a new Portuguese driving license via postal mail.
It is recommended to make an appointment with the IMT the moment you arrive in Portugal. You may have to wait for a long time if you don't make an appointment. Bring your ID card as well as your NIF number.