Buy the IMT Driving License Online
If you are thinking of changing your driving license to Portugal, the best thing to do is start the process as soon as you get your residency card. This will save you time and effort in the long run.
You will need to complete certain requirements, such as classes and a medical examination. Don't worry, the medical exam isn't as complicated as you may think.
Requirements
If you are planning to move to Portugal it is essential to exchange your foreign driving license to a Portuguese driving licence as soon as you can. You will have an authentic driving license in the event that your car is lost or stolen. You can exchange your license at the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT) offices. Comprar carta de condução categoria B is relatively straightforward, however you will need to bring a number of documents with you. This includes a medical exam and a translated version of your driver's license from a foreign country. You can get a lingoking translator to help you.
You'll also need to pass a theory exam and complete practical lessons. These lessons are taught in driving schools that are certified by the government. You can find the list of these centers on the IMT website. The test for theory costs 30 euros, and the driving test in practice costs an additional 40 euros. You may be required to take an exam specifically designed for vehicles such as buses and other large passenger vehicles.
The IMT's website contains information on how to change the foreign driving license to Portugal. There are different rules for each country, so it's essential to verify the IMT's website prior move. Expats from the United States, for example, must submit a certification of equivalence issued by their home state.
Before allowing you to exchange your driving licence the IMT will require your identification card or passport. It will also require a certified copy of your driving record. You can get a certified copy of your driving record from the state you reside in or from a notary public. The notary will charge a fee for his service.
Fees
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched today a new online service that allows citizens to obtain their driver's license. To use the service, drivers need to have their citizen card or mobile key, and be able to access the IMT's My Driving License website. Once they have registered the certificate, which includes the latest layout can be issued in Portuguese or English and is valid for a period of six months. Its authenticity can be verified by scanning the QR code or entering the verification code.
Wait for IMT to indicate that you are able to go to their desk to register your application and submit biometric information. IMT will inform you whether there is a cost.
It is important to note that the process could take some time, particularly since the US doesn't have a system that automatically exchanges documents like driver's licenses with Portugal. It may take IMT a few weeks to examine and return your documents once you have submitted it.
Make sure that the documents you send to IMT are clearly marked with your name and address. It's also a good idea to scan all documents before you send them to ensure that you can locate them should you require them. If you have several family members applying for the license, make sure to label each document with a different name to avoid confusion. This will speed up the process and prevent any potential delays.
Timeframe
If you arrive in Portugal with a valid driving license issued by a country that is a signatory to the international road transport convention, you can exchange it within 60 days to get an official Portuguese driver's license. You can exchange your license online or at an IMT desk. You will also need to present a Modelo 10 IMT completed form along with a proof of identity. In addition, you have to register on the IMT website with your taxpayer number and password.
Anyone who is exchanging their licenses with countries outside of the EU will have to pay additional fees. For instance, if hold an US license then you'll need to obtain an abstract from the state authorities and a doctor's certificate declaring that you are fit enough 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 whole process can be time-consuming, but it's worth it in the end. It's a good idea to get your license as quickly as you can, to ensure it isn't lost or stolen.
When submitting your application for a license, ensure that all documents you submit are scanned and saved as separate files. If you can, assign each file a unique name to avoid confusion. IMT will send you a confirmation email once you have submitted your application. This will inform you of the status of your application. You will also be provided with an appointment to take the driving test at IMT.
Practical lessons
The driving lessons are conducted at government-licensed centers and are only supervised by certified instructors. The duration of the learning is between 28 and 32 hours. You will need to take both theory classes as well as practical ones, and pass both before you can take your test. The test is conducted in the same place where you took the theory test, so it is important to be familiar with the environment at this point. The test is 30 questions long and you are allowed to make three errors. The questions are based on the syllabus that you were taught in your preparation classes. The exams are not taken online, but you can download the syllabus and practice the questions on a variety of websites.
You can also take the test at a private institute, but this is contingent on the availability of dates and the expertise of the instructors. In addition, you'll be required to pay an amount of EUR30 and submit an official medical certificate that proves you're qualified to drive. Moreover, renewals may require an eyesight test. After passing the exam you'll be issued your license by mail.
On the IMT's website, you can also find a listing of centres that are accredited. It is crucial to determine whether the center has a certified instructor. Do not hesitate to request a different instructor if you are not satisfied with the instructor's performance. The instructor will teach you how to drive the car and manage traffic. It is also necessary to be aware of the highway code in Portugal and the road signs. The cost of driving lessons in Portugal can differ from centre to center. It's best to visit the IMT website and compare prices to find the best deal.
Theory test
The Institute of Mobility and Transport offers both practical and theory-based driving classes. It is possible to get an driver's license through the IMT only after passing a theoretical as well as a practical exam. It is also required to get a certificate of a favorable psychological evaluation. The theoretical test, or "exame of codigo" comprises 30 questions which you must correctly answer in 35 minutes. It is available at IMT or in private examination centers. If you are an international student you can ask the IMT to translate your questions into English.
The driving test that is practical, or "exame of velocidade" runs between 40 and 50 minutes. It involves a test drive on an urban route. You will be evaluated by the instructor, the examiner and another person taking the exam. If you pass the test, the IMT will issue a license to you via email.
In order to take the practical and theoretical tests you must complete at least 28 theoretical classes and 16 practical classes. You may choose to take your exam in the theory section prior to finishing the required number of practical classes. You will have to pay separately for the practical classes.
You can lease a car from a driving school if don't want to spend the money to purchase a new car. This allows you to test your driving skills without having to worry about the expense of buying a brand new car. Make sure you research all the schools in your area before settling on the best one. If you're thinking of renting a car, make sure to check its insurance policy before making a reservation. If you don't have the appropriate insurance, the rental company might decline your claim.