How to Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're moving to Portugal from an EU country, the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) suggests that you change your license before you risk it getting lost or stolen. 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 avoid waiting.
How do you apply
To obtain an IMT license, you'll be required to attend a series of theoretical and practical classes. These lessons are taken in government-licensed facilities and taught by qualified instructors. The course is made up of 28 hours of theory and 32 hours of practical lessons. The cost of these classes differs, but you can save money by joining an agency that provides group lessons for less than 100 euros.
The next step is to take the test in theory (exame de codigo). This test can be taken online or in public institutions and takes about 30 minutes. It is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions to answer on a computer. The questions are based on the syllabus you learned in your preparation classes. To pass the test, you must answer 27 questions correctly.
After passing the theory test, you'll need to pass the practical test. This test can be conducted at a driving school that is private or at the IMT. The test costs EUR30 and the IMT will provide you with a an interim driver's license to use while you wait for your new license.
You need to have a valid passport, residency card or medical certificate and an attestation from your country of birth. The embassy is also able to notarize and authenticate documents for an additional cost.
To exchange your foreign driver's license to an Portuguese driving license You will need go to the Institute for Mobility and Transport ("Instituto of Mobility and Transportes") office. It is best to arrive early since the office is usually very crowded. You should arrive at a minimum of an hour before the time that the office opens.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes has launched an online platform to allow drivers to check their driving license renewal date. The platform is available to both Portuguese and non-Portuguese citizens. It also provides information on road traffic rules and regulations.
Requirements
If you're a citizen of Portugal it is imperative to switch your driving license for a Portuguese one. If you don't, you could be subject to heavy fines. It is recommended to start this process as soon as you are able when you have received your residence permit. It's also important to inform the institute of mobility that you'll be using your old license, since this is required by law.
You must go to an IMT with all the necessary documents. Bring your driver's license, proof of address, residence card, and medical exam. The IMT must register a physician to conduct the medical exam. The doctor will issue a certificate specific to your license. They will send it to the IMT through their online medical certificate platform.
Once you've filled out all of these documents, you'll be eligible to take the driving test. The test takes between 40 and 50 minutes. You will be accompanied by an instructor, an examiner, and another person who is taking the test. You'll be required to drive going and returning so be prepared for an extremely long day!
If you're from a country that does not have a bilateral agreement you'll need a certified translation. This should be done by the issuing entity or consular servisse, and it should indicate the categories obtained by examination and those that were derived through equivalent means. You'll also require a psychological evaluation certificate, which needs to be drafted by an experienced psychologist.
You must also submit a certified copy of your driving record from the United States, which must be authenticated. You can find the list of states that are authorised to perform this service here. This document is essential to the driving licence process as it can take a month for the U.S. to deliver it. Additionally, the process could be extended when the U.S. doesn't have a reciprocal arrangement with the European Union. It is also important to take into consideration that the IMT can be understaffed and the processing time could be lengthy.
Fees
It can be costly to obtain your first driving license. Driving classes are not free, and the actual test can cost up to EUR250. It is important to begin the process as quickly as possible in order to get your new driving license before the deadline. If you don't submit your application on time, you may have to pay a fine for late submission of your application.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online service that allows residents to get an official certificate. The new service is a great alternative to visiting the IMT offices in person, and is a good idea for those who wish to save time. The service is accessible to anyone with a Citizen card or mobile key. It allows drivers to save 10% off the fee that they normally have to pay at the IMT offices. The certificate, which has an updated design and is valid for 6 months and can be verified by reading the QR CODE.
Once you have all your documents in order, you are able to submit a request for the exchange of your driving license. You must submit the IMT with a copy of your driving history. You can obtain this from the government or from an individual driving school. The embassy can assist you in getting this document, but you must ensure that the apostille has been placed on the document before sending it to the IMT.
If you're a resident of Portugal and are a citizen of the EU or EEA you will need to exchange your driving license for one of a Portuguese license within two years after having moved to Portugal. Along with your driving permit you will have to provide an unissued title document from your country of origin. The embassy can assist you with this by legalising the document.
The test for theory is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions and lasts for approximately 30 minutes. Comprar Carta de Condução da Categoria B1 must complete at least 27 questions right to pass. The questions are similar to those in preparation classes. The test is conducted in a vehicle with an instructor and the candidate.
Timeframe
If you're planning to transfer your driving licence be prepared to wait a long time. Depending on your country, you may need to submit other documents. If you're unsure what documents you will need, you should check the IMT website.
The IMT has launched a new service called "My Driving License." This platform online allows you to view the status of your driver's license and determine when it is time to renew. The IMT provides a mobile app that can help you begin the process of converting your 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 stolen your driving license You must hand it over to the IMT. After you submit the psychotechnical certification you will be issued an updated driving licence.
You will receive an email from the IMT after you have uploaded your documents. The IMT will review your application within a couple of weeks or days. Once they have completed your application, you will be notified of the results via email or phone. If your driver's license is not accepted and you are not accepted, you will receive an official document that allows you to drive (albeit within Portugal). Comprar a carta de condução do IMT will send you your new Portuguese driving license by post.
It is recommended to make an appointment with the IMT the moment you arrive in Portugal. If you don't have an appointment, you might need to wait a while to be viewed. Bring your ID card and your NIF number.