Buy the IMT Driving License Online
If you're planning to exchange your driving license to Portugal, the best thing to do is begin the process when you receive your residency card. Comprar carta de condução da categoria C will save time and effort.
You'll have to fulfill certain requirements, including courses and a medical examination. But don't worry - the medical exam is not as invasive as it appears.
Requirements
If you're planning to relocate to Portugal, it is important to exchange your current driving license to one that is a Portuguese one as soon as you can. This will ensure that you have an authentic 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 simple, but you will require a number of documents with you. This includes a medical exam and a translation of your driving licence from abroad. You can get a translator from lingoking to assist you with this task.
You will also have to pass a driving theory test and complete a practical lesson. These lessons are taught in driving centers that are licensed by the government. You can find the list of these centers on the IMT website. The theory test will cost 30 euros, while the practical driving exam will be an additional 40 euros. You may need to take a special test for specialized vehicles like buses or other big passenger vehicles.
The IMT's website contains information on how to change an international driving license to Portugal. There are different rules for each country, so it's essential to check the IMT's website prior to making a move. For instance, foreigners who are exiled from the United States must submit a certificate of equivalent status from their home state.
The IMT will need to see your identification card or passport before giving you the right to exchange your driving license. It will also require a certified copy of your driving record. You can get an official 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
As of today it appears that the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) has launched an online service that enables citizens to get a driving license certificate. To access the service, drivers must have their digital mobile key or citizen card in order to access IMT's "My Driving License" portal. After registration, the certificate, which features a new 'layout', can be issued in either Portuguese or English and remains valid for a period of six months. It is possible to verify its authenticity by scanning the QR code or entering the verification code.
After you've completed the form, wait for the IMT's indication to go to one of their desks to sign your application and provide your biometric data. You will also be required to pay a fee for your exam that IMT will inform you about at a later date.
Be aware that the process may take some time, particularly since the US does not have a system that automatically exchanges documents like driver's licenses with Portugal. It could take IMT a few weeks to review and return your documentation once you have submitted it.
Make sure to label the documents you send to IMT with your name and contact information. It's recommended to scan all documents prior to sending them so that you can easily find them should you require them. If you have multiple family members applying for the license, make sure to label each document with a unique name to avoid any confusion. This will speed up the process and avoid delays.
Timeframe
If you arrive in Portugal with an original driving licence issued by a country which is a signatory to the international road transport convention, you are able to exchange it within 60 days to get the Portuguese driver's license. You can exchange your license online or at a IMT desk. To do so you need to present a proof of identity and an completed Modelo 10 IMT form. You must also register on the IMT site using your taxpayer number as well as a password.
Those who are exchanging their licenses with countries outside of the EU must pay additional fees. If you have a US driving license, for instance you will have to get an abstract from the authorities of your state as well as a doctor's certification stating that you can drive. The medical exam will be conducted by an expert doctor who will ask you some general health questions and give you a brief neurological test.
The entire process is long, but it's well worth it in the end. It's a good idea to obtain your license as soon as possible, so that it isn't lost or stolen.
When you apply for your license, ensure that all the documents you send are scanned and saved as separate files. If possible, you should give each file a different name to avoid confusion. IMT will send you a confirmation email after you've submitted your application. It will notify you of your 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 taught in centers that are licensed by the government and are taught by certified instructors. The learning time is between 28 and 32 hours. You must take theory lessons and practical ones, and pass both before you are able to take your test. The test is conducted in the same center in which you took the theory test, so you must be familiar with the setting at this point. The exam is 30 questions long, and you are allowed to make three mistakes. The questions are built on the syllabus you learned in your preparation classes. The tests aren't conducted online, however there are numerous websites that allow you to download the syllabus.
You can also opt for a private institute to take the exam however, you must be aware that these exams are dependent on the availability of dates and professionals. In addition, you'll have to pay an amount of EUR30 and submit the medical evidence that proves you're able to drive. Moreover, renewals may require an eye test. If you pass the test, you'll receive your license by mail.
You can also find a list with certified centers on the IMT website. It is essential to verify whether the center has a certified instructor. If you're not satisfied with the quality of the instructor, don't hesitate to ask for a new one. The instructor will help you get through the practical driving test by teaching you how to drive and handle traffic. You will also need to know the code of highways in Portugal and the road signs. The cost of driving lessons in Portugal is different from center to center. Check prices on the IMT website to get the best deal.
Theory test
The Institute of Mobility and Transport offers both theory and practical driving lessons. The IMT can only issue a driving license after passing both a theoretical and practical exam. A valid certificate of psychological assessment is also required. The theoretical test, or "exame of codigo" comprises 30 questions to which you have to answer correctly within 35 minutes. The exam can be taken through IMT or through private testing centers. If you are a foreigner You can ask the IMT to translate the questions into English for you.
The practical driving test or "exame of velocidade" lasts between 40 and 50 minutes. The test involves the driving test in an urban area. You will be assessed by the instructor, the examiner and a third person taking the test. If you pass the test then the IMT will issue a license to you via mail.
You must have completed at minimum 28 of your theoretical classes and 16 practical classes to be qualified for the practical and theoretical exam. You may choose to take your exam in the theory section prior to completing the required number practical classes. You'll need to pay for the practical classes separately.
You can hire a car from a driving school if don't want to spend the money on a new vehicle. This allows you to practice your driving skills without having to worry about the cost of purchasing an entirely new vehicle. Make sure to research the different schools in your area to locate the most suitable one for you. If you are planning on renting a car, be sure to review the insurance policy prior to making the reservation. If you don't have correct insurance, your rental company may decline your claim.