Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're not a EU national and you are new to Portugal you must change your driving license from a foreign country as soon as possible. If you don't get your license, it could be seized or canceled.
In order to complete your exchange, you'll need to provide the following documents: an ID, a completed IMT Modelo 13 form, and proof of residency. You may need to have an examination for medical reasons.
Cost
The cost of purchasing the IMT driving license varies depending on whether you want to take the test in person or online. The test costs EUR15 in person and lasts 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 or English. The IMT website lists private centers that provide this test.
The IMT provides online services to replace lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website lets citizens submit their request and receive an electronic certificate. You can then take the certificate to an officer station to obtain an additional license within eight weeks. In addition, you can submit your request to an IMT desk in person. You'll need a valid ID document such as an identity card, passport, taxpayer number, a citizenship card or a residence permit. Additionally, you'll need to complete the Modelo 10 IMT Form.
After moving to Portugal it is crucial that you exchange your foreign driving license to a Portuguese driver's licence as soon as you are able. You will be protected from paying heavy penalties if your driver's license from abroad is lost or stolen. It is also recommended to get a new Portuguese driving license before your old one expires.
You can submit your request online or in person at an IMT office. In-person visits are most common for complex applications such as those involving the exchanging of foreign licenses. In-person meetings may require additional documentation, such as a translated foreign license or a copy of the license from your home country.
The US has no central database for driving licenses unlike other countries. It can take IMT longer to verify your driver's licence. Fortunately, you can get around this by asking IMT to extend your temporary paper license if it's about to expire.
The process of exchanging your US driver's license for one in Portuguese one can be a bit confusing and lengthy. It is important to make sure you have all the required documentation before visiting an IMT branch. Also, it is recommended to bring cash if the branch does not accept credit cards. Download the SIGA application on your smartphone to determine how many people are being handled at any given moment.
Requirements
A foreign driver's license may be exchanged to obtain a Portuguese driving license, without taking the Portuguese driving test. The process could be long. In Comprar carta de condução da categoria A to arranging your documents, you may also need to take preparation classes and take the theory test at IMT or a private test center. To be eligible for the driving test you must pass 28 hours of theory and 32 hours of practical ones. The lessons are held in government-approved centres. You can find the locations on the IMT website. The duration of the lessons depends on your availability and performance.
To exchange your foreign driver's license you must provide an abstract of your driving records from the state where you resided the last time in the United States. The document must be apostilled or stamped to be valid when included in your application to IMT. The embassy will then authenticate the certificate. You can bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply for a driver's license on the internet or in person at the IMT office in your city. The online method is easier and less stressful. However, you'll require a proof of identity such as a citizen card or taxpayer number to submit a request. If you're exchanging a foreign driver's license it is also necessary to bring your passport or resident permit.
The IMT has a new program that lets drivers request a duplicate license online. This new option can save time and money, and it is much more convenient than visiting an IMT office in person. The IMT has developed a new website that lets drivers upload their documents, and even upload photos.
The institute also offers the option of receiving an automatic notification when it is appropriate to renew your driving license. Additionally it also informs you of the IMT also informs you of the expiration date of your driving licence and how to renew it.
Time frame
Obtaining your driving license in Portugal can be a lengthy process. It could take up to 30 days for the IMT to complete your application, and even longer during peak times. You are able to drive while waiting for the IMT to process your application using your driving license issued by a foreign country or temporary permit.
You can track the status of an application online and track its progress. However, some applications require the applicant to visit the site personally. In some cases you can submit the required documents from your home country. This makes the process much quicker.
It's crucial to apply as soon as you can when you're looking to exchange your EU driving license. This will prevent your license from being lost or stolen while you wait for it to be processed. It is also crucial to obtain a Portuguese license prior to travelling abroad, as the IMT cannot replace your EU license if it's stolen or lost in a different country.
After you've submitted your application, a medical test will be required. It's a quick test to determine if you're mentally fit to operate an automobile. The test doesn't include bloodwork or stress tests therefore it's simple to pass. The IMT website contains the list of doctors authorized to administer this test.
Once you've passed your medical examination you can now begin preparation for the practical and theory tests. The theory test can be taken at the IMT, or at a private exam centre. You must have completed the preparatory classes prior to taking. The practical exam can be taken on its own or with the theory test. If you choose to take the test with the theory exam, you must make sure that you have your certification from the preparation class with you at the time of the test. You'll need to retake the exam if you don't.
Insurance
If you're planning to move to Portugal be sure to get your driver's license exchanged as soon as possible. Failure to do this could result in fines and delay in the issuance of your residence permit. It's also best to make the change within 90 days of receiving your residency permit.
Before you can exchange your old license for the Portuguese license, you'll need to obtain a Certificate Of Authentication. This document can be obtained at the embassy of your country or from consular services in Portugal.
You'll also need to pass a medical exam. Fortunately, the exam isn't as lengthy as you think. Comprar carta de condução categoria B includes bloodwork and physical tests to make sure that you're able drive safely. This test costs EUR25 and is administered by a doctor who is part of an organization that deals with medical issues.