How to Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're moving to Portugal from another EU country The Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) recommends exchanging your license to avoid losing it or being stolen. Here's how to do it.
A medical exam is required to start the process. This is a good thing - you can apply online and save time.
How do you apply
The process of obtaining an IMT driving license entails taking the following theoretical and practical classes. These lessons are taught by certified instructors at government-licensed centers. It takes 28 hours of theory lessons and 32 practical lessons to complete the course. The classes are offered at various prices, however you can save by enrolling in classes in groups that cost less than EUR100.
The next step is to take the theoretical test. This test is offered on the internet and at public institutions, and is about 30 minutes long. It is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions to answer using the computer. The questions are in line with the syllabus you learned in your preparation classes. You must get 27 correct answers to pass the test.
After passing the theory test, you will 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 $30, and the IMT will provide you with a an interim driver's license to use while you wait for your new license.
You must bring an original passport or residence card, a medical certificate and an attestation of your driving license from the country of origin. The embassy can also authenticate and notarize your documents for an additional fee.
To exchange your foreign driver's license for a Portuguese driving license it is necessary go to the Institute for Mobility and Transport ("Instituto of Mobility and Transportes") office. The office is usually busy, therefore it is recommended that you go early. 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 that allows drivers to verify when their driver's license is due to renew. The platform is accessible to both Portuguese and non-Portuguese citizens. It also provides information about road traffic rules and regulations.
Requirements
If you're a resident of Portugal it is essential to swap your driving license to a Portuguese one as soon as you can. cartãoexpressodeportugal could be penalized heavily in the event of not doing so. It is best to start this process as soon as possible after receiving your residence permit. It's also essential to inform the institute of mobility and transport that you'll be using the old licence, as this is legally required.
The first step is to go to an IMT office with all the required documents. You should bring your driver's license and proof of address, residence card, and medical exam. The IMT must enlist a physician to conduct the medical exam. The doctor will issue a certificate specific to your license. Then, they send it to the IMT through their online medical certificate platform.
After you've completed all these documents, you'll be able to take the practical driving test. The test will last between 40 and 50 minutes. You will be accompanied with an instructor, an examiner, and a person who is taking the test. Be prepared to spend a long time driving back and forth.
If you're from a country that doesn't have an agreement bilaterally with Portugal in which case you'll need to provide a certified translation of your driver's licence. This must be performed by the issuing entity or consular servisse, and it must include the categories derived through an examination as well as those obtained through equivalent means. You'll also require a psychotherapy evaluation certificate, which must be drafted by a psychologist.
You also need to submit an authenticated certified abstract of your United States driving record. You can find a list of state authorities that are authorised to perform this service here. This document is crucial to the process of obtaining a driving license and could take up to a month to receive from the U.S. This process can take even longer if there is no reciprocal agreement between the U.S. and the European Union. You should also take into consideration that the IMT can be understaffed and the processing time may be long.
Fees
It can be expensive to obtain your first driving license. The driving classes aren't free, and the practical exam can cost you up to EUR250. It is crucial to begin the process as soon as you can to receive your new license before the deadline. You could be penalized for late payment if you fail to submit your application by the deadline.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online service that lets citizens to get the certificate. The new service is a great alternative to visiting the IMT offices in person, and is a good idea for those looking to save time. The service is accessible to anyone who has a citizen card or digital mobile key. It allows drivers to save 10% off the fee that they would otherwise have to pay at the IMT offices. The certificate, which features new design, is valid for 6 months and can be checked by scanning the QR CODE.
Once you have your documents in order you can make an application for the exchange of your driving license. The IMT requires that you provide an account of your driving record. This can be obtained from the government or a private driving instructor. The embassy can assist in getting this document, however, you should ensure that the apostille is 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 licence for the Portuguese license within two years of moving here. You will need to provide the lost title certificate from the country of origin together with your driving license. The embassy can help you in this process by legalizing the document.
The test for theory is comprised of 30 multiple-choice responses and lasts for approximately 30 minutes. To pass, you must answer at least 27 of the 30 questions correctly. The questions are the same as those that are taught in preparation classes. The test is taken in a car, with an instructor and a candidate taking the test.
Timeframe
Be prepared to wait for a an extended time if you plan to exchange your licence. You may also be required to submit additional documents based on your country of origin. If you're not sure of the documents you will require, you can check the IMT website.
The IMT has launched a brand new online service called "My Driving License" that lets you verify the status of your driver's license and determine when it's time to renew. The IMT also offers a mobile app that helps you get started with the process of converting your American drivers license to a Portuguese one.
You can also report the theft or loss of your license by using the My Driving License platform. If you've lost or taken your license, you'll need to hand it over at the IMT. You will receive a replacement after you have handed in the psychotechnical certificate.
You will receive an email from the IMT after you've uploaded your documents. It could take some days or weeks for them to review your application. Once they have processed it they will inform you of the results by email or by phone. If your driver's license is not accepted, a new document will be issued to permit you to drive (but only within Portugal). The IMT will then mail you a new Portuguese driving licence by post.
When you arrive in Portugal it is best to make an appointment with the IMT. If you don't have an appointment, you might need to wait a while to be viewed. It's recommended to bring your ID card and NIF number with you when you go.