Buy the IMT Driving License Online
The IMT has received reports of fraudulent schemes that promise to provide legal driving licenses in exchange for money. The institute warns that these requests should be reported to authorities.
Depending on the country of origin, the process of transferring your license can differ. Make sure you have all your documents in order prior to visiting IMT.
How do I apply
Getting an international driving license for Portugal is a complicated process, and the costs can be very expensive. The Institute of Mobility and Transport offers a digital service that allows citizens to obtain an eligibility certificate for driving at a fraction of what it costs. To access this service, drivers will need their citizen card or a digital mobile key to access the My Driving License' website. Once registered, drivers will receive an additional discount of 10% on the applicable fee.
The application process takes 60 days on average and applicants must be prepared well in advance. If they have an US driving license that will expire soon during their stay in Portugal it is crucial to renew the license prior to starting the application process. It is also essential to provide IMT with an address that is reliable and able to be contacted for official documents. If you are not a resident, it could be necessary for someone to receive the document under your name.
After completing the application, applicants will need to take a test in the form of a theory and a practical exam to receive their license. The theory test consists of 30 multiple-choice answers and lasts approximately 30 minutes. The questions are taken from the syllabus you learned during your preparation classes. The theory test can be taken at an IMT center or an independent center. The practical test takes a bit longer and requires the same vehicle you've practiced in. You can also take the practice test at an IMT or private center however, the fees are higher.
Depending on the category of your license, you might need to submit a medical certificate. This certificate must be sent to the IMT electronically. The 'atestado medico eletronico' must indicate the categories obtained by examination and those that are obtained through equivalence. In certain instances you may be required to submit a psychological assessment report. This is a requirement for drivers who wish to remain in their category 2 classification. The process can be lengthy and complicated, so it is best to start as soon as possible.
Requirements
To get an official driving license in Portugal you'll need to submit several documents. You will need a certificate of authentication as well as an attestation from the consular service of your home country, and a translation of your driving license in Portuguese. You will also have to pass a practical driving test and pay the required fees. Additionally, you might require classes and take a medical test.
The average application will take 60 working days. This is an average time frame, but it can differ based on your application's complexity. In this time, you will be issued a temporary license that will allow to drive while waiting for your Portuguese driving license to arrive.
When you are ready take your test, you need to sign up on the internet or at the IMT office. You will receive an email from IMT with instructions on how to pay for the test, and also provide your signature or photo if necessary. Once you have submitted these documents, you will be informed when to schedule your practical and theory exam.
The test for theory is known as "exame de codigo" and is comprised of 30 multiple choice questions which you must answer using computers. The test lasts about 30 minutes and you must to get 27 of the questions correctly in order for it to pass. You can take the test at either the IMT or private driving schools. The cost of taking the test at a private driving school is higher than at the IMT however it is more convenient and faster.
After passing the theory test, you are able to take the practical driving test. The test is a practical one that requires you to drive a standard car along an urban road. In addition to driving the car it is also necessary to follow traffic rules and park your vehicle in a secure manner. You will need a vehicle in good condition and at least 18 years old age, based on the category.
If you plan to drive heavier vehicles, such as agricultural tractors or trailers you'll need a special license. The process can take up to a year and you will need to go through a medical exam and possibly a psychological evaluation.
Fees
The Institute of Mobility and Transport is a cost-based organization for those who want to get the driver's license. The cost is based on the type of license you are applying for and the kind of medical certificate you have. Generally, the process is completed in 60 days and costs between EUR30 and EUR120 for preparation classes as well as a theory test and the practical test. The IMT offers a temporary license that you can use while you wait to receive the actual license.
Non-EU citizens moving to Portugal must exchange their licenses for a Portuguese one within two years of establishing residency in Portugal. Read the Full Write-up has details on the procedure for people from various countries. It's important to note that certain countries may require specific documents to be eligible for exchange.
The cost of a driver's licence for an immigrant who relocates to Portugal will be around EUR30. The theory test takes around 30 minutes long and covers the syllabus that you learned in your classes for preparation. The test is comprised of 30 multiple-choice answers which you need to answer on an electronic device. You can take this test at an IMT or a private exam centre.
If you've passed the theory test, you'll have to take a physical exam with a physician. The doctor will issue a medical certification that is specific to the type of driving license you're requesting. The document, known as an attestado medicio eletronico and must be electronically submitted to IMT.
In addition to the medical certificate, you will need to submit other documents to the IMT, such as your national ID or passport. The IMT will verify that the documents are authentic before granting your license. It will also verify whether you've successfully completed any driving lessons or a driving course. It will also verify the validity of your license from before and determine if there have been any traffic violations. The IMT will send you a letter that includes all the necessary documents as well as a payment slip for the driver's licence. If you're a newly-arrived resident and have not yet arrived, the IMT will also require your signature and photograph.