Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're not a European citizen and are new to Portugal it's crucial to exchange your driver's license issued by your country as soon as you can. If you don't do it, your license could be confiscated or cancelled.
To complete your exchange you'll need the following documents: a photo ID, the completed IMT Modelo 13 form, and proof of residence. You may also require a medical exam.
Cost
The cost for purchasing the IMT driving license varies depending on whether you decide to take the theory test in person or online. In person, the test is 15 euros and lasts for 30 minutes. It's comprised of 30 multiple choice questions that cover the syllabus you learned in preparation classes. The test is available in Portuguese or English. The IMT website lists private centers that provide this test.
The IMT offers a service online for replacing lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website allows citizens register their request to receive an electronic certificate. Then, you can present the certificate at a police station to receive an alternative license within 8 weeks. You could also submit your request in person at an IMT counter. You'll need an ID document like a citizenship card, taxpayer number, residence permit or passport, and an completed Modelo 10 IMT form.
After moving to Portugal it is essential to exchange your current foreign driving license for the Portuguese driver's license as quickly as you can. You will be protected from costly penalties in the event that your foreign driver's license is stolen or lost. It is also recommended to get a new Portuguese driving license before your old one expires.
You can apply in person at an IMT office or on the internet. In-person visits are the most common for complex applications such as ones that involve the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings may require additional documents, like an official translation of your foreign license or an official copy of your home country's the governing body.
As opposed to other countries, the US does not have a central database for driving licenses. It can take IMT longer to verify your driver's licence. You can prevent this issue by asking IMT to extend your temporary driver's license in the event that it is soon to expire.
The process of exchanging your US driver's license to one in Portuguese one can be confusing and lengthy. You must prepare all of the required documentation before visiting an IMT office and carry cash in case the office does not accept credit cards. Download the SIGA application on your smartphone to determine how many people will be dealt with at any given moment.
Requirements
A foreign driver's license may be exchanged for an Portuguese driving license without taking the Portuguese driving test. However, the process could be a long one. It is possible that you will need to organize your documents, but you will also have to attend preparation classes and take the theory test either at IMT or privately. You must have completed 32 hours of practical lessons and 28 hours of theory in order to be eligible for a driving test. These lessons are taught at government-approved centers. You can find the list of these centers on the IMT website. The duration of these classes is contingent on your availability and the progress you make.
To exchange your foreign driver's license you must provide an abstract of your driving record from the state of your last residence in the United States. This document must be apostilled/stamped to be valid when included in your application at IMT. The embassy will authenticate this certificate for you. You can also bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply for a driver's license on the internet or in person at the IMT office in your city. It's faster and less stressful. You will need to provide an identification document, like your taxpayer number or citizenship card, to make a request. If you are transferring an international driver's license, you will also need to bring your passport or resident permit.
The IMT offers a new service that lets drivers request duplicate driving licenses online. This service is convenient and could save your time and money. The IMT has launched a new website that allows drivers to upload their documents and even upload photos.
In addition, the institute provides the possibility of receiving an automatic notification when it's the appropriate moment to renew the driving licence. In addition, the IMT also informs you of the expiration date of your driving licence as well as how to renew it.
Time frame
The process for getting your driver's license in Portugal can be lengthy. It can take up to 30 days for the IMT to process your application and even longer during the peak hours. While waiting, you can still drive using your foreign license or a temporary permit.
You can track the status of your application online and track the progress of an application. However, some applications require a personal visit. In certain instances you may be able to provide the required documents from your country of origin, making the process much quicker.
It's crucial to apply as soon as possible when you're looking to exchange your EU driving license. This will stop your license being lost or stolen while you wait for it to be processed. It's also essential to get a Portuguese license prior to travelling to another country, as the IMT will not be able to replace your EU licence if it is stolen or lost in another country.
After you've completed your application, you'll have to take a medical exam. This is a simple test to ensure that you're mentally fit enough to drive a vehicle. The test doesn't include stress tests or bloodwork and therefore should be easy to pass. The IMT website provides a list of approved physicians for this exam.
After you have passed your medical test then you can begin preparation for both the practical and theory exams. The theory test can be taken either at the IMT or at a private exam center. Comprar a carta de condução do IMT must have taken the preparatory classes prior to taking. The practical test can be taken on its own or with the theory test. If you choose to take the practical test in conjunction with the theory test it is essential to ensure that you have your preparation class certificate at the time of the test. If not, you'll need to take the test at a later time.
Insurance
If you're planning to relocate to Portugal be sure to get your driver's license exchanged in the earliest time possible. Failure to do this could result in fines and a delay in the issuance of your residence permit. It's also best to make the exchange within 90 days of receiving your residency permit.
Before you can exchange your old license to one that is a Portuguese license, you will need the Certificate of Authenticity. This document is available at the Embassy of your country or from consular services in Portugal.
You'll have to pass a medical examination. The exam isn't as difficult as you may think. This test involves blood tests and physical tests to make sure that you're able drive safely. The test costs EUR25 and is administered by a doctor who is part of an organization that deals with medical issues.