Buy the IMT Driving License Online
The best way to go about it should you be planning to change your driving license in Portugal is to begin the process as quickly as you receive your residency card. This will help you save time and effort in the long run.
There are some requirements you must meet, such as attending classes and passing a medical exam. Don't worry, the medical exam isn't as difficult as you think.
Requirements
If you're planning to relocate to Portugal and are planning to move there, it is crucial to exchange your current driving license for a Portuguese one whenever you can. This will ensure that you have a valid driver's license in the event that your car is stolen or lost. You can exchange your license at the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT) offices. The process is fairly easy, but you'll require a number of documents with you. This includes a medical test and a translation of your foreign driving licence. You can employ a lingoking translator to help you.
You'll also need to pass a theory test and complete practical lessons. These lessons are conducted in government-licensed driving centers. You can find the list of these locations on the IMT website. The theory test costs 30 euros, while the practical driving exam will be an additional 40 euros. You may have to take an exam specifically designed for vehicles like buses or other large passenger vehicles.
The IMT's website has information on how to exchange a foreign driving license in Portugal. It's important to check IMT's website prior moving as there are different rules for every country. For instance, expats from the United States must submit a certificate of equivalent status from their home state.
Before allowing you exchange your driving license, the IMT will require your identification card or passport. It will also need to examine a certified copy your driving record. You can obtain a certified copy from the state you reside in or from a local notary. The notary public will charge fees for their services.
Fees
As as of today it is reported that the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) has launched a new online service that allows citizens to obtain a driver's license certificate. To avail the service, drivers have to have their citizenship card or digital mobile key and access IMT's My Driving License portal. Once registered, the certificate can be issued in Portuguese or English. It is valid for a period of six months. The authenticity of the certificate can be verified by scanning the QR Code or by entering the verification codes.
Wait for IMT to indicate that you are able to go to their office to complete your application and provide biometric information. IMT will notify you whether there's an exam fee.
Note that the process can take a while, especially because the US doesn't have a system that automatically exchanges documents such as driver's licenses with Portugal. Once you submit your documentation it could take a few weeks for IMT to review the document and return it to you.
Be sure to clearly label the documents you send to IMT with your name and contact details. It's recommended to scan all documents prior to sending them so that you can easily find them in the event of need. If you have several relatives applying for the license, make sure to label each document with a unique name to avoid any confusion. This will help you save time and prevent any delays.
Timeframe
If you possess valid driver's licenses issued in a country that is a party to the international road traffic convention, you are able to exchange it to a Portuguese one within 60 days after arriving in Portugal. You can do this on the internet or at an IMT desk. You must also present a Modelo 10 IMT completed form and a proof-of-identity. You must also register on the IMT site using your taxpayer number and password.
The cost for those who exchange their licenses will be greater. If you have a US driving license, for instance you will have to obtain an abstract from state authorities as well as a doctor's certification stating that you are legally able to drive. A doctor will conduct the medical exam. He will ask you questions about your general health and then conduct a brief neurologic test.
The process is lengthy but worth it. It's a good idea to obtain your license as soon as you can so that it doesn't go missing or stolen.
When applying for your license, ensure that all the documents you submit are scanned and saved as separate files. It is recommended to use distinct names for each file If you can, to avoid confusion. IMT will send you an email confirmation once you have submitted your application. This will notify you of your status of your application. You'll also receive an appointment at the IMT office to take your practical driving test.
Practical lessons
The driving lessons take place at government-licensed centers and are only supervised by qualified instructors. The learning time is between 28 and 32 hours. Before you can book an exam, you need to complete both the theoretical and practical lessons. The test will take place at the same location where you completed your theory test. It is therefore essential to know the location. The exam is 30 questions long, and you're allowed to make up to three mistakes. The questions are based on the syllabus you studied in your preparation classes. The tests aren't conducted online, but there are several websites that allow you to download the syllabus.
You can also opt for an institution that is private to pass the test However, it is important to be aware that they are subject to the availability of dates and the qualifications of the experts. In addition, you'll have to pay the fee of EUR30, and provide an official medical certificate that proves you're qualified to drive. Renewals may also require an eye test. You'll receive your license in the mail following your passing the exam.
On the IMT's website, you can also view a list of centers that have been certified. It is essential to confirm that the center has an instructor who is certified. If you're not satisfied with the caliber of the instructor, don't hesitate to ask for a new one. The instructor will show you how to drive a car and manage traffic. It is also necessary to know the highway code in Portugal and the road signs. The cost of driving lessons in Portugal can differ from centre to centre. Check prices on the IMT website to get the best deal.
Theory test
The Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) offers practical and theory-based driving classes. The IMT can only issue a driving permit after passing both a theoretical and practical test. A certificate of favorable psychological assessment is also required. The theoretical test, also known as "exame de codigo," consists of 30 questions that need to be answered correctly in 35 minutes. It is offered at IMT or in private examination centers. If you're a foreigner You can ask the IMT to translate the questions into English for you.
The test for driving practice called the "exame de velocidade," lasts 40 to 50 minutes. The test consists of a drive through an urban area. You will be rated by the examiner and by the instructor. If you pass the test then the IMT will issue a license to you via email.
You must have completed at a minimum 28 of your theoretical classes and 16 practical classes in order to be eligible for the theoretical and practical exam. Cartao Expresso De Portugal may also opt to take your theoretical test prior to completing the necessary number of practical classes. You'll need pay for the practical classes.
You can rent a car from an instructor if you do not want to spend the money for a brand new car. This will allow you to test your driving skills without worrying about the expense of an entirely new vehicle. Make sure you research all the schools in your area and select the most suitable one. Verify the insurance policy of the car you plan to rent before booking. Your rental company could deny your claim if you don't have the correct insurance.