How to Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're planning to move to Portugal from another EU country The Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) suggests that you change your license before you risk it being stolen or lost. Here's how to do it.
A medical exam is required to begin the process. This is a good thing - you can apply online and speed up the process.
How to Apply
To get an IMT license, you'll need to take a series in theory and practical courses. These lessons are taken in government-licensed facilities and taught by certified instructors. The course consists of 28 hours of theory and 32 hours of hands-on lessons. These classes are offered at various prices, however you can save by signing up for classes in groups that cost 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 it is about 30 minutes long. It consists of 30 multiple choice questions to answer using a computer. The questions are in line with the syllabus you studied in your preparation classes. To pass the test, you have to answer correctly 27 questions.
Once you have passed the theory test then you are required to take a practical exam. This test can be taken at a driving school that is private or at the IMT. The exam costs EUR30 and the IMT provides you with a temporary driving licence while you wait for your licence.
You need to have a valid passport, residency card or medical certificate and an attestation from the country of birth. The embassy will also authenticate and notarize documents for cost.
To exchange your foreign driving license to a Portuguese one, you need to visit the Institute for Mobility and Transport office ("Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes"). It is advised to arrive early as the office is usually very packed. It is recommended to arrive at least an hour prior to the time that the office opens.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes has launched an online platform that lets drivers check when their driving license is due for renewal. The platform is accessible by both Portuguese and foreign citizens. It also provides information about road traffic rules and regulations.
Requirements
If you're a citizen of Portugal it is essential to exchange your driving licence to a Portuguese one as soon as you can. Otherwise, you could face massive fines. This process is usually quite complicated, so it's recommended to start the process as soon as you get your residence permit. It's also important to inform the institute of mobility that you'll be using your old license, as this is required by law.
You must go to an IMT with all required documents. Bring your driver's license as well as proof of address, residence card, and a medical examination. The medical exam must be administered by a physician registered with the IMT. The doctor will issue a specific certificate to your license, and send it directly to the IMT through 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 an instructor, an examiner, and a person who is taking the test. Be prepared to spend a lot of time driving back and back.
If you are from a country that does not have a bilateral agreement with Portugal You will have to submit a certified translation of your driver's licence. This should be completed by the issuing agency or consular servisse, and it should indicate the categories obtained through an examination as well as those that were derived through equivalent means. You'll also need a psychological evaluation certificate, which must be drafted by an experienced psychologist.
You will also need to provide an authenticated, certified abstract of your United States driving record. You can find a list of state authorities who are authorized to provide this service here. This document is vital to the process of getting a driving licence as it can take a month for the U.S. to deliver it. The process can take longer if there isn't a reciprocal agreement between the U.S. and the European Union. It is also important to consider that the IMT may be insufficiently staffed, and the processing time can be long.
Fees
It can be costly to get your first driver's license. Driving classes are not free, and the actual exam can cost up to EUR250. However, it is essential to begin the process as soon as you can to ensure that you receive your new driving license before the deadline. You may be charged a late fee for not submitting your application on time.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online service that allows citizens to get an official certificate. The new service is an excellent alternative to visiting the IMT offices in person, and is a good idea for those looking to save time. The service is available to anyone who has a citizen card or mobile key, and permits drivers to save 10% off the cost they would otherwise pay at the IMT offices. Comprar a carta de condução do IMT , which features a new design, is valid for 6 months and can be verified by scanning the QR CODE.
Once you have your documents in order, you can make a request for an exchange of your driving licence. The IMT demands that you submit proof of your driving record. This can be obtained from the government or a private driving coach. The embassy can assist you in obtaining this document, but you should ensure that the apostille has been placed on the document prior to sending it to the IMT.
If you're a citizen of an EU or EEA country, you must change your driving license to a Portuguese one within two years after establishing residence in the country. You will need to provide a lost title certificate from your country of origin along with your driving license. The embassy can assist with this by legalising the document.
The test in theory consists of 30 multiple-choice questions and takes about 30 minutes. To pass, you must answer at least 27 of the 30 questions correctly. The questions are similar to those in the preparation classes. The test is conducted in a car with an instructor and a candidate.
Timeframe
Be prepared to wait for a long period of time if you wish to exchange your licence. Based on the country you reside in you may have to provide additional documents. If you're not sure of the documents you will require, make sure to look up the IMT website.
The IMT introduces a brand new service dubbed "My Driving License." This platform online allows you to check the status of your driving licence and determine when it is time to renew. The IMT offers a mobile application that will help you start the process of exchanging an American drivers license for one in Portugal.
You can also report the loss or theft of your licence using the My Driving License platform. If you've lost or taken your license, you'll have to hand it over at the IMT. Once you have submitted the psychotechnical verification, you will receive the new driving license.
You will receive an email from the IMT once you have uploaded your documents. The IMT will process your application within a few weeks or days. Once they have processed it they will inform you of the outcome via email or phone. If your driver's license is not accepted, a document will be issued to allow you to drive (but only within Portugal). The IMT will then send you a new Portuguese driving licence by post.
If you are arriving in Portugal, it's best to make an appointment with the IMT. You may have to wait for a long time if you do not make an appointment. It's important to bring your ID card along with your NIF number with you when you go.