How to Buy the IMT Driving License
The Institute of Mobility and Transport suggests that you change your license prior to it being lost or stolen if you're moving to Portugal from an EU member state. Here's how you can do it.
A medical test is required to begin the process. Here's the good news - you can apply online and speed up the process.
How to Apply
The process of getting an IMT driving license requires a series of theoretical and practical classes. These lessons are held in government-licensed centers and taught by certified instructors. The course is made up of 28 hours of theory and 32 hours of hands-on lessons. The cost of these lessons varies however, you can save money by signing up with an agency that provides group lessons for less than 100 euros.
The next step is to take the theory test (exame de codigo). The test is available on the internet and at public institutions, and lasts about 30 minutes. It consists of 30 multiple choice questions to answer using a computer. The questions are based off the syllabus you were taught during your preparation classes. You must answer 27 of the questions correct to pass the exam.
After passing the theory exam and passed the theory test, you will need to take a test in the practical. You can take this test at a private driving school or at the IMT office. The exam costs EUR30 and the IMT offers you a temporary driving licence while you wait for your licence.
You must possess an authentic passport, residence card or medical certificate as well as an attestation from your country of birth. The embassy can also authenticate and notarize your documents for an additional fee.
To exchange your foreign driving licence for one that is a Portuguese one, you must go to the Institute for Mobility and Transport office ("Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes"). The office is typically busy, and it is advised to start early. If you are able, be there an hour before opening time.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes has launched an online platform that allows drivers to check their driving license renewal date. The platform is available to both Portuguese and non-Portuguese citizens. It also provides information about road traffic regulations and rules.
Requirements
If you are a resident of Portugal it is crucial to switch your driving license for a Portuguese one. Otherwise, you'll be facing massive penalties. The process is typically bureaucratic, so it's best to begin the process as when you have your residence permit. It's also essential to notify the institute of mobility and transport that you'll be using your old license, as it is legally required.
The first step is to visit an IMT office with all the necessary documents. Bring your driver's license, proof of residence, residence card, and a medical examination. The medical exam must be conducted by a doctor who is registered with the IMT. The doctor will issue a specific certificate to your license and send it directly to the IMT using their online medical certificate platform.
The next step is the driving test. This test lasts between 40 and 50 minutes. The test will be conducted by an instructor, an examiner and another person who is taking the test. You'll be required to drive from and back, so be prepared for an extended day!
If you're a citizen of a country that does not have a bilateral agreement you'll need a certified translation. This is required either by the issuing organization or the consular service. It should include the categories that were obtained through examination and those obtained via equivalence. You'll also require a psychotherapy evaluation certificate, which should be written by a psychologist.
It is also necessary to submit a certified copy of your driving record from the United States, which must be authenticated. Here you can find a list with state authorities that are authorized to conduct this service. Comprar Carta de Condução da Categoria B1 is essential to the process of getting a driving licence and it could take a month for the U.S. to deliver it. Furthermore, this process could be longer in the event that the U.S. doesn't have a reciprocal arrangement with the European Union. Also, you should take into consideration that the IMT can be understaffed and the processing time can be long.
Fees
It can be costly to get your first license. The driving classes aren't free, and the practical exam can cost you up to EUR250. However, it's essential to begin the process as soon as you can to ensure that you receive your new licence before the deadline. You may be penalized for late payment in the event that you do not submit your application on time.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport launched an online service that will allow citizens to obtain an IMT certification. This new service is a great alternative to visiting IMT offices and is ideal for those looking to save time. The service is accessible to anyone who has a citizen card or mobile key and allows drivers to save 10% off the cost they would otherwise pay at the IMT offices. The certificate, which has a new design, is valid for 6 months and can be checked by reading the QR CODE.
Once you have all your documents in order, you are able to submit the request for the exchange of your driving license. The IMT demands that you submit proof of your driving history. This can be obtained through the government or a private driving school. The embassy will help you get this document. However, you must ensure that the apostille appears 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 need to exchange your driving license for 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 of origin. The embassy will help you with legalizing your document.
The test in theory consists of 30 multiple-choice answers and takes about 30 minutes. To pass, you must be able to answer at least 27 of the 30 questions correctly. The questions are similar to the ones you will encounter on the preparation classes. The test is conducted in a car, with an instructor and a second candidate taking the test.
Timeframe
If you're planning to transfer your driving licence be prepared for for a long time. You may also have to submit additional documents depending on your country of origin. If you're unsure what documents you will need, you should check the IMT website.
The IMT has launched a brand new online service dubbed "My Driving License" which lets you examine the status of your driving license and determine when it's time to renew. The IMT also has an app on mobile that can help you get started with the process of changing your American drivers license for an Portuguese one.
You can also report the theft or loss of your license 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 receive a new one 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. The IMT will process your application within a couple of weeks or days. After they have processed your application you will be notified of the results via either email or telephone. If your driver's license is not accepted, a certificate will be issued that will permit you to drive (but only within Portugal). The IMT will then send you a new Portuguese driving license via post.
It is best to schedule an appointment at the IMT when you first arrive in Portugal. If you don't have an appointment, you may need to wait a while to be seen. Bring your ID card as well as your NIF number with you.