Buy the IMT Driving License Online
The most effective option to take when you are planning to exchange your driving licence in Portugal is to begin the process as soon when you receive your residency card. This will save you time and effort in the long run.
There are a few requirements you need to meet, such as attending classes and passing a medical exam. But don't worry you can pass the medical test - it's not as invasive as it may seem.
Requirements
If you're planning to relocate to Portugal it is essential to exchange your foreign driving license to a Portuguese one as soon as possible. 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 fairly simple, but you will require a number of documents along with you. This includes a medical test and a translated version of your driver's license from a foreign country. You can get a lingoking translator to help you.
You will also need to pass a test on theory and take a practical driving course. These lessons are taught in driving schools that are licensed by the government. On the IMT's website, you can find a complete list of these driving schools. The test for theory costs 30 euros, and the driving test in practice will cost an additional 40 euros. You may need to take a tests specifically designed for cars such as buses and other large passenger vehicles.
The IMT website contains information on how you can exchange your foreign driving licence in Portugal. It is essential to check the IMT's website prior moving as there are different rules for every country. Expats from the United States, for example have to present a proof of equivalence that is issued by their home state.
Before allowing you to exchange your driving license, the IMT will require your identification card or passport. They will also require you to have a certified copy of your driving record. You can get an official copy from the state you reside in or from a public notary. The notary public will charge an amount for their services.
Fees
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has today launched a brand new online service that allows citizens to obtain their driver's license. To access the service, drivers must have a digital mobile key or citizen card in order to access IMT's "My Driving License" portal. After registration the certificate, which features an updated layout, can be issued in either Portuguese or English and remains valid for 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 complete your application and provide biometric information. You will also be required to pay an exam fee, which IMT will inform you about later on.
It is important to keep in mind that the process could take some time, particularly because the US doesn't have a system that automatically exchanges documents such as driver's licenses with Portugal. It may take IMT some time to review and return your documentation once you have submitted it.

Make sure that the documents you submit to IMT are clearly labeled with your name and address. It is also recommended to scan all documents before sending them so that you can locate them easily if needed. If you have multiple 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 avoid delays.
Timeframe
If you have an active driver's license issued by a country which is a member of the international road traffic convention, you can exchange it for one in Portugal. Portuguese one within 60 days of your arrival in Portugal. You can do this either online or at an IMT desk. You will also need to present a Modelo 10 IMT completed form and a proof-of-identity. In addition, you must sign up on the IMT website using your taxpayer number and password.
Anyone who is exchanging their licenses from countries outside the EU will have to pay additional fees. For example, if you are driving with an US license then you'll need to obtain an abstract from state authorities and a doctor's certification which states that you are fit enough to drive. A doctor will conduct the medical examination. He will ask you general health questions and conduct a summary neurologic test.
The process is time-consuming but it's worth it. It's also a good idea to get your license as soon as you can, before it gets lost or stolen.
If you are submitting an application for a license, be sure to save and scan each document in a separate manner. You should have different names for each file, if possible, to avoid confusion. IMT will send you an email confirmation once you have submitted your application. This will notify you of your status of your application. You will also be given an appointment to take the practical driving test at IMT.
Practical lessons
The driving lessons are taught in centers that are licensed by the government and are supervised by qualified instructors. The learning period lasts between 28 and 32 hours. You will need to take both theory classes as well as practical ones, and pass both before you are able to take your test. The exam will be held in the same center in which you took the theory test, so you must be familiar with the setting by now. The test consists of 30 questions, and you can make no more than three mistakes. The questions are based off the syllabus you studied in your preparation classes. The exams aren't online, however there are a variety of websites where you can download the syllabus.
You may also opt to take the test at a private institute however, this is subject to availability of dates and professional. You'll also need to pay EUR30 and present a medical certification stating your fitness to drive. Renewals could also require an eye test. After passing the exam you'll be issued your license by mail.
You can also find a list of certified centers on the IMT website. It is important to check whether the centre has a certified instructor. If you are not satisfied with the caliber of the instructor, don't hesitate to request a new one. The instructor will assist you to pass the practical driving test by guiding you in how to drive and navigate traffic. It is also necessary to know the highway code in Portugal and the road signs. The cost of driving classes in Portugal will vary from centre to centre. It's best to visit the IMT website and compare prices to get the most affordable price.
Theory test
The Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) offers practical and theory-based driving classes. The IMT can only issue a driving license after passing both a theory and practical test. It is also necessary to get a certificate of a positive psychological assessment. The test that is theoretical, also known as "exame of codigo" comprises 30 questions that you have to answer correctly within 35 minutes. It is available at IMT or in private examination centers. If you are a foreigner You can ask the IMT to translate the questions into English for you.
The practical driving test called the "exame de velocidade," is 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 another person taking the test. If you pass the test then the IMT will issue a certificate to you by mail.
To be able to pass the theoretical and practical exams you must take at least 28 theoretical classes and 16 practical classes. You can choose to take your theoretical exam before finishing the required number of practical classes. You'll need to pay for the practical classes separately.
You can hire a car from an instructor if you do not want to invest the money to purchase a new car. This will allow you to learn to drive without having to worry about the expense of an entirely new vehicle. Be sure to investigate the different schools in your area to determine the best one for you. If Comprar a carta de condução do IMT on renting a vehicle, be sure to verify the insurance policy before booking it. If you don't have correct insurance, your rental company might refuse to honor your claim.