Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're not a citizen of the EU and are new to Portugal it's crucial to transfer your driver's license from another country as soon as you can. If you don't get your license, it could be confiscated or canceled.
You'll require the following documents to complete your exchange ID and the completed IMT Modelo 13 application, and proof of residency. You may be required to undergo an exam for medical conditions.
Cost
The cost of the IMT driving license varies based on if you take the test online or in person. In person, the test costs EUR15 and takes 30 minutes. The test is comprised of 30 multiple choice questions that test the syllabus you were taught in preparation classes. The test is offered in Portuguese however, you can also choose to have it translated into English. The IMT website lists private centers that offer this test.
The IMT offers a service online for replacing lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website lets citizens submit their request for a digital certification. You can then present the certificate at a police station to receive an additional license within 8 weeks. In addition, you may make your request at an IMT desk in person. You'll need a valid ID document such as an identity card, passport, taxpayer number, a citizen card or a residence permit. Additionally, you'll be required to fill out the Modelo 10 IMT Form.
It is crucial to exchange your driver's license for one in Portugal. Portuguese one as soon as possible after you move to Portugal. This will shield you from massive fines if your foreign license gets lost or stolen. Additionally, you should get your new Portuguese license before the validity of your old one runs out.
You can make your request online or in person at an IMT office. However in-person visits are more common for applications with a lot of complexity that require the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings might require additional documents, such as a notarized translation of your foreign license or a copy of your home country's ruling body.
As opposed to other countries, the US does not have a central database of driving licenses. This could mean it may take longer for IMT to verify the authenticity of your driver's permit. Fortunately you can avoid this by asking IMT to extend your temporary paper license if it's about to expire.
The process of converting your US driver's license for one in Portuguese one can be confusing and time-consuming. You should be prepared with all the necessary documentation before visiting an IMT branch. Additionally, you should bring cash if the branch does not accept credit cards. A helpful suggestion is to download an application called SIGA on your phone which will inform you how many people are being handled and how long you'll have to wait.
Requirements
A foreign driver's license can be exchanged for the Portuguese driving license without having to pass the Portuguese driving test. The process can still be long. You may have to organize your documents, but you will also need to attend preparation classes and pass the theory test at IMT or privately. To be able to take the driving test you must pass 28 hours of theory classes and 32 practical ones. The lessons are held in government-approved centers. These centers are listed on the IMT's website. The length of the lessons is dependent on your availability and improvement.
To transfer your foreign license You will need to submit an abstract of driving documents from the state in which you most recently resided in the United States. This document must be apostilled/stamped in order to be valid for inclusion in your application to IMT. The embassy can authenticate this certificate for you. You can also bring it to your in-person appointment with IMT.
You can apply for a driver's license on the internet or in person at the IMT office in your city. Online applications are faster and less stressful. But, you'll require a proof of identity such as a citizen card or taxpayer number 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 which permits drivers to request duplicate driving licenses online. This new service is easy and can save your time and money. The IMT has developed a new website that allows drivers to upload their documents and can even provide photos.
In addition, the institute provides the possibility of receiving an automatic notification when it's the right moment to renew the driving licence. The IMT will also tell you when your driving license expires and how to renew it.
Time frame
The process of obtaining your driving license in Portugal can be lengthy. The IMT can take up 30 days to process your request, and even longer if you apply during peak periods. While you wait you are able to drive with a foreign license or temporary permit.
You can check the status of your application online and track its progress. However certain applications require the applicant to visit the site personally. In some cases you can provide the required documents from your home country which makes the process easier.
If you're applying to exchange your EU driver's license, you must do so in the earliest time possible. This will prevent your license being lost or stolen while you wait for it to be processed. It's also essential to get a Portuguese license prior to traveling abroad, as the IMT cannot replace your EU licence if it is stolen or lost in a different country.
Once you've submitted your application, you'll have to take a medical exam. It's a quick test to ensure that you're mentally fit to operate an automobile. This test doesn't contain stress tests or blood tests, so it should be easy to pass. Comprar carta de condução categoria B contains the list of doctors who have been certified to conduct this test.
Once you've passed the medical exam you can now begin studying for the practical and theory exams. The theory test can be taken at the IMT or an examination center privately owned but you must have completed your preparatory classes prior to taking it. The practical test can be taken separately or alongside the theory test. If you decide to take the theory test and the practical test together, you will need your certificate of preparation class along with you. If not, you'll need to take the test again at a later time.
Insurance
If you're planning to relocate to Portugal and want to move there, you must obtain your driver's license replaced as soon as you can. Failing to do so could result in fines or a delay in getting your residence permit. It is recommended to exchange your residence permit within 90 days.
If you're an EU resident or not, you must get a Certificate of Authentication for your old license before exchanging it for a Portuguese one. This document can be obtained from the Embassy of your country or from consular services in Portugal.
You'll need to pass a medical examination. Fortunately, this test isn't as extensive as you may think. It involves blood tests and a check-up that will ensure you're able to drive safely. The test costs EUR25 and is administered by a doctor from a medical group.