Buy the IMT Driving License Online
If you're looking to change your driving license in Portugal the best thing you can do is start the process when you receive your residency card. This will save time and effort.
You'll need to meet certain requirements, including courses and a medical examination. Don't worry, the medical exam isn't as invasive as you think.
Requirements
If you are planning to move to Portugal, it is important to switch your foreign driving license to a Portuguese one as soon as possible. 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 straightforward, but a few documents are required. This includes a medical examination and the translation of your foreign driving license. You can hire an expert translator to assist you.
You will also have to pass an exam on driving theory and take a practical driving lesson. These lessons are conducted in licensed driving schools by the government. You can find the list of these centers on the IMT website. The theory test costs 30 euros while the practical driving exam will be an additional 40 euros. You may have to take an exam specifically designed for vehicles like buses and other large passenger vehicles.
The IMT's website has information on how to exchange the foreign driving license to Portugal. It's important to check IMT's website prior moving as there are different rules for every country. For instance, foreigners who are exiled from the United States must submit a certificate of equivalent status from their home state.
Before allowing you exchange your driving license, the IMT will require your identification card or passport. They will also need to have a certified copy of your driving record. You can obtain a certified copy from the state you reside in or from a public notary. The notary will charge the cost of his service.
Fees
As as of today it is reported that the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) has launched a new online service that lets citizens to get a driving license certificate. To access the service, drivers must have a digital mobile key or citizen card in order to access IMT's "My Driving License" portal. Once registered, the certificate is issued in Portuguese or English. It is valid for a period of six months. The authenticity of the certificate can be confirmed by scanning the QR Code or by entering the verification codes.
Once you've filled out the form, wait for the IMT's signal 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 the exam that IMT will inform you about in the future.
It is important to note that the process could take some time, especially because the US has no system that automatically exchanges documents like driver's licenses with Portugal. Once you submit your documentation it could take a few weeks for IMT to review the document and return it to you.
Be sure that the documents you submit to IMT are clearly marked 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 are applying for the license on behalf of multiple family members, you should label each document in a different way to avoid confusion. This will save you time and prevent any delays.
Timeframe
If you possess an active driver's license issued in a country that is a party to the international road traffic convention, you can exchange it to a Portuguese one within 60 days of arriving in Portugal. You can exchange your license online or at a IMT desk. To do this, you must present an identity proof and the completed Modelo 10 IMT form. Additionally, you need to sign up on the IMT website using your taxpayer number and 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 example you will have to obtain an abstract from the authorities of your state as well as the doctor's approval that you are able to drive. The medical examination will be carried out by a doctor who will ask general health questions, and then give you a summary neurological test.
The process is time-consuming but it's worth it. 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. It is recommended to have distinct names for each file, if possible, 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 given an appointment to take the driving test at IMT.
Practical lessons
The driving lessons are offered in government-licensed centers and are overseen by qualified instructors. The learning time is between 28 and 32 hours. You must complete theory classes as well as practical ones, and pass both of them before you can take your test. The test will be conducted in the same place where you took your theory test. It is therefore essential to be familiar with this environment. 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 taken online, however there are numerous websites that allow you to download the syllabus.
You can also opt for a private institution to sit for the test however, you must be aware that these exams are dependent on the availability of dates and experts. You'll also be required to pay EUR30 and provide an official medical certificate proving your ability to drive. In addition, renewals could require an eye test. You'll receive your license in the mail after passing the exam.
You can also find a list with certified centers on the IMT website. It is essential to confirm that the center has an instructor who is competent. Do not hesitate to request an alternative instructor if you're not satisfied with the instructor's professionalism. The instructor will assist you to pass the practical driving exam by guiding you on how to maneuver the car and handle 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 is different from center to center. Compare prices on the IMT website to find the best price.
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. It is also necessary to obtain a certificate of a favorable psychological evaluation. The theory test, also known as "exame de codigo," consists of 30 questions that must be answered correctly 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, also known as the "exame of velocity" lasts between 40 and 50 minutes. It is a test drive through a city road. You will be assessed by the instructor, the examiner, and another person who is taking the test. If you pass the exam then the IMT will issue you a certificate via mail.
You must have completed at a minimum 28 theoretical classes, and 16 practical classes in order to be eligible for the theoretical and practical exam. Comprar a carta de condução do IMT can also opt to have your theoretical exam before you have completed the required number of practical classes. You'll have to pay for the practical classes separately.
If you don't have the money to purchase a car You can lease one from a driving academy. You can learn to drive without worrying about the cost of buying a brand new car. Make sure you research all the schools in your area before settling on the one that is most suitable for you. Make sure you know the insurance policy of the vehicle you're planning to rent prior booking. The rental company may deny your claim if you do not have the right insurance.