Buy the IMT Driving License
If you are a non-EU national and new to Portugal, you should exchange your foreign driving license as soon as you can. If you don't, your license could be confiscated or even cancelled.
You'll need the following documents to complete your exchange ID, a completed IMT Modelo 13 application, and proof of residency. You may also require an examination for medical reasons.
Cost
The cost of an IMT driving license varies based on if you take the test online or in person. The test costs $15 in person and lasts 30 minutes. The test consists of 30 multiple choice questions that test the syllabus you learned in preparation classes. The test is offered in Portuguese however, you can also opt to have it translated into English. The IMT website lists the list of private centers offering the test.
The IMT offers a service online to replace lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website allows citizens to register their request and receive an electronic certificate. You can then take the certificate to an officer station to receive a new license within eight weeks. In addition, you may submit your request at an IMT desk in person. You'll need an ID document like an identity card, passport, taxpayer number, a citizens card or a residence permit. Also, you will have to fill out the Modelo 10 IMT Form.
It is essential to exchange your driver's license with one that is a Portuguese one as soon as possible after moving to Portugal. You will be protected from paying heavy penalties if your foreign driver's license gets lost or stolen. Also, you should get your new Portuguese driving license before your old one expires.
You can apply in person at an IMT office or on the internet. However the in-person visit is more common for applications with a lot of complexity, including those involving the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings may require additional documents, such as an official translation of your foreign license or a copy of your country's governing body.
In contrast to other countries, the US has no central driving license database. This could mean it takes longer for IMT to verify the authenticity of your driver's permit. Fortunately you can avoid this by asking IMT to extend your temporary paper license if it's about to expire.
The process of changing your US driver's license to a Portuguese license can be a bit confusing and time-consuming. You should prepare all the necessary documents prior to visiting an IMT branch. Also, you should bring cash if the office does not accept credit cards. Download the SIGA application on your smartphone to see how many persons are being dealt with at any given moment.
Requirements
A driver's license from another country can be exchanged for the Portuguese driving license, without taking the Portuguese driving test. The process is long. You may have to organize your documents, but you'll also have to attend preparation classes and pass the test in theory either at IMT or privately. To be able to take the driving test you must have completed 28 hours of theory and 32 practical ones. The lessons are conducted in government-approved centres. These centers are listed on the website of the IMT. The length of the lessons is contingent on your availability as well as your progress.
To exchange your foreign driver's license you must provide an abstract of your driving documents from the state in which you resided the last time in the United States. This document needs to be apostilled/stamped in order to be valid for inclusion in your application to IMT. The embassy will authenticate the certificate. You can bring it along to your appointment in person with IMT.
You can apply online or in an IMT office near you. Online is quicker and less stressful. You'll need an identification document, such as your taxpayer number or a citizen card, in order to submit your request. If you are exchanging an international driver's license it is also necessary to bring your passport or resident permit.
The IMT offers an innovative service that allows drivers to request duplicate driving licenses online. This new service can save time and money, and is a lot more convenient than visiting an IMT office in person. The IMT created a portal which allows drivers upload their documents and even upload pictures.
The institute also provides the possibility of receiving an automatic notification when it is appropriate to renew your driving license. Comprar carta de condução da categoria C will also tell you when your driving permit expires and the best way to renew it.
Time frame
The process of getting your Portuguese driving license could be long. It can take up to 30 days for the IMT to complete your application, and even longer during high-demand times. You can drive while waiting with your foreign driving license or temporary permit.
You can track the status of your application online and follow its progress. However certain applications require an individual visit. In certain cases, you can submit the necessary documents directly from your country of origin. This will make the process much quicker.
It's important that you apply as soon as possible in the event that you wish to exchange your EU driving license. This will help prevent your license being lost or stolen while you wait for it to be processed. It's also important to obtain a Portuguese license prior to travelling abroad, since the IMT will not be able to replace your EU licence if it is lost or stolen in another country.
Once you've submitted your application, you'll have to pass a medical exam. This is a straightforward test to ensure that you're mentally able to operate an automobile. The test doesn't include stress tests or blood tests, so it should be simple to pass. The IMT website contains the list of doctors who have been certified to conduct this test.
Once you've passed the medical exam you can now begin studying for the practical and theory exams. Comprar Carta de Condução da Categoria B1 can be taken at the IMT or a private examination center however, you must have completed the preparatory classes prior to taking the exam. The practical exam can be taken separately or alongside the theory test. If you choose to take the theory test and the practical test together, you'll require your certificate of preparation class along with you. You'll need to retake the test if you do not.
Insurance
If you plan to relocate to Portugal in the near future, you must exchange your driver's licence as soon as you can. Failure to do this could result in fines or a delay in obtaining your residence permit. It is recommended to exchange your residence permit within 90 days.
Before you can exchange your old license for one that is a Portuguese license, you will need to obtain a Certificate Of Authentication. This document can be obtained at the embassy of your country or consular service in Portugal.
You'll also have to pass a medical exam. Fortunately, the exam isn't as lengthy as you might think. This exam includes bloodwork and physical examination to confirm that you're able to drive safely. A medical doctor from a network can perform this test costing around EUR25.