Buy the IMT Driving License Online
The most effective option to take should you be planning to transfer your driving license in Portugal is to start the process as quickly as you receive your residency card. This will save you time and effort in the long run.
There are a few requirements you must satisfy, like taking classes and an examination for medical reasons. But don't worry that the medical exam is not as invasive as it seems.
Requirements
If you are planning to move to Portugal, it is important to exchange your foreign driving license for one that is a Portuguese one whenever you can. This will ensure that you have an official driver's license in case your car is stolen or lost. You can exchange your license at the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT) offices. The process is simple however a few papers are required. This includes a medical examination and a translated version of your driving licence from abroad. You can employ a professional translator to assist you.
You'll also need to pass a test on theory and take practical lessons. The lessons are offered in driving schools that are accredited by the government. You can find a list of these centers on the IMT website. The theory test costs 30 euros, and the practical driving test will cost an additional 40 euros. You may have to pass a test for vehicles with special requirements such as buses, or other large passenger vehicles.
The IMT's website provides information on how to exchange an international driving license to Portugal. There are different rules for each country, so it's important to check the IMT's website prior move. For instance, expats from the United States must submit a certificate of the equivalent of their home state.
Before allowing you exchange your driving licence, the IMT will require your identification card or passport. It will also need to examine a certified copy your driving record. You can obtain an official copy of your driving record from your home state or from a notary public. The notary will charge you an amount for his services.
Fees
As of today it appears that the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) has launched a new online service that allows citizens to get a driving license certificate. To access the service, drivers must have their digital mobile key or citizen card and access the IMT's "My Driving License" portal. Once registered, the certificate can be issued either in Portuguese or English. It is valid for a minimum of six months. Its authenticity can be verified by scanning the QR code or entering the verification code.
Once you've filled out the form, wait for the IMT's signal to visit one of their desks to sign your application and submit your biometric data. IMT will inform you whether there is a cost.
It is important to note that the process could take some time, particularly because the US does not have a system that automatically exchanges documents such as 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 to label the documents that you send to IMT with your name and contact information. you could look here is also recommended to scan all documents prior to sending so that you can locate them easily if needed. If you are applying for the license for multiple family members, you should label each document separately to avoid confusion. This will help you save time and will avoid any delays.
Timeframe
If you are a holder of an active driver's license issued in a nation that is a party to the international road traffic convention, you are able to exchange it to a Portuguese one within 60 days after arriving in Portugal. You can do this via the internet or at an IMT desk. To complete the process you will need to show an identity proof and the completed Modelo 10 IMT form. In addition, you have to sign up on the IMT website using your taxpayer number and password.
The costs for those who switch their licenses will be more. If you hold an US driving license, for instance, you will be required to get an abstract from state authorities as well as the doctor's approval that you are legally able to drive. A doctor will conduct the medical examination. He will ask you general health questions and then conduct a brief neurologic test.
The entire process is lengthy, but it's worth it in the end. It's a good idea to get your license as soon as you can so that it doesn't go missing or stolen.
When you apply for your license, ensure that all the documents you submit are scanned and saved as separate files. It is best to use different names for each file, if possible, to avoid confusion. Once you've submitted your application, you will receive a confirmation email from IMT to inform you of the status of your application. You'll also receive an appointment at the IMT office to take your practical driving exam.
Practical lessons
The driving lessons are conducted in licensed government-approved centers and are supervised only by qualified instructors. The learning period is between 28 and 32 hours. Before you can book an exam, you need to complete both the theory and the practical classes. The exam will be held in the same center in which you took the theory test, so you must be familiar with the environment by now. The test consists of 30 questions, and you can make no more than three mistakes. The questions are based on the syllabus you learned in your preparation classes. The exams aren't online, but there are several websites where you can download the syllabus.
You can also opt for a private institution to take the exam, but you should remember that these are subject to the availability of dates and the qualifications of the experts. Additionally, you'll need to pay the fee of EUR30, and provide a medical certificate stating that you're able to drive. In addition, renewals could require an eyesight test. If you pass the test, you'll receive your license via mail.
On the IMT's website, you can also view the list of centres that have been certified. It is important to check whether the center has a certified instructor. Do not hesitate to request a different instructor if you are not satisfied with the instructor's quality. The instructor will help you get through the practical driving test by guiding you in how to drive and navigate traffic. You'll also have to learn about the highway code and the road signs in Portugal. The cost of driving lessons in Portugal varies from center to center. It is best to go to the IMT website and compare prices to find the best deal.
Theory test
The Institute of Mobility and Transport offers both theory and practical driving lessons. The IMT can only issue a driver's license after passing both a theory and practical exam. It is also necessary to get a certificate of favorable psychological evaluation. The theoretical test, or "exame of codigo" is comprised of 30 questions to which you must correctly answer in 35 minutes. The theoretical exam is offered through IMT or through private testing centers. If you are an international student you can request the IMT to translate your questions into English.
The test for driving practice also known as "exame de velocidade," runs between 40 and 50 minutes. It involves a test ride through a city road. You will be rated by the examiner as well as the instructor. If you pass the exam, the IMT will send you a license by mail.
You must have completed at minimum 28 theoretical classes, and 16 practical classes in order to be qualified for the theoretical and practical exam. You may choose to take the theoretical exam prior to finishing the required number of practical classes. You'll have to pay for the practical classes.
You can hire an automobile from a driving school if you do not want to spend the money to purchase a new vehicle. You can test your driving skills without worrying about the expense of a new car. Just make sure you research the different schools in your area to locate the best one for you. Verify the insurance policy of the car you're planning to rent prior making your reservation. The rental company may refuse to pay if you don't have the proper insurance.