Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're not a EU national and you are new to Portugal it is recommended that you exchange your foreign driving licence as soon as you can. If visit my web site don't then, your license could be confiscated or canceled.
To complete your exchange, you'll need the required documents: an ID as well as an completed IMT Modelo 13 form, and proof of residency. You may also require an examination for medical reasons.
Cost
The cost of an IMT driving licence varies depending on whether you choose to take the theory test online or in person. In person, the test costs EUR15 and takes 30 minutes. The test is comprised of 30 multiple choice questions that cover the syllabus you learned in your preparation classes. The test is conducted in Portuguese, but you can also opt to have it translated into English. The IMT website lists private centers that offer this test.
The IMT offers a service online for replacing lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website allows citizens to make a request for replacement and receive an electronic certificate. You can then show the certificate at a police station and receive a replacement license within eight weeks. You can also make your request in person at an IMT counter. You will need an ID document like a citizen card or taxpayer number, a passport or residence permit and the completed Modelo 10 IMT form.
After moving to Portugal, it's important to exchange your foreign driving license for the Portuguese driver's licence as soon as possible. This will shield you from huge fines if the foreign license gets lost or stolen. You should also get your new Portuguese driving license before your old one expires.
You can submit your application online or in person at an IMT office. In-person meetings are the most popular for complex applications such as those involving the exchanging of foreign licenses. In-person meetings might require additional documents, for example, a notarized translation of your foreign license or the copy of your home country's the governing body.
Unlike systems in other countries in the world, the US has no central driving license database. This means it may take longer for IMT to verify the authenticity of your driver's license. You can avoid this problem by asking IMT to extend your temporary driver's license in the event that it is soon to expire.
The process of changing your US driver's licence for a Portuguese license can be a bit confusing and time-consuming. It is important to prepare all the necessary documents prior to visiting an IMT branch. Also, it is recommended to bring cash if the branch does not accept credit cards. A good tip is to download an application called SIGA on your smartphone that will let you know how many people are being dealt with and how long you'll have to wait.
Requirements
You can exchange a foreign driving license to obtain a Portuguese license without the need to pass the Portuguese driving test. However, the process could be a long one. You may need to arrange your documents, but you will also need to attend preparation classes and take the test in theory either at IMT or privately. You must have completed 32 hours of instruction in practical classes and 28 hours of theory to be able to pass your driving test. These lessons are taught in government-approved centers. You can find a list of these centers on the IMT website. The duration of the lessons is contingent on your availability as well as your improvement.
To exchange your foreign driver's license, you will need to submit an abstract of driving documents from the state in which you most recently resided in the United States. The document must be apostilled or stamped to be valid when included in your application at IMT. The embassy can authenticate the certificate for you. You can also bring it to your in-person appointment with IMT.
You can apply online or in an IMT office near you. Online applications are faster and less stressful. You will need to provide an identification document, like your taxpayer number or citizen card, in order to submit an application. If you're exchanging a foreign license, you'll also require your passport or resident permit.
The IMT has a new service that lets drivers request a duplicate driving license online. This new option can save time and money, and is much more convenient than visiting an IMT office in person. The IMT has developed a new website which allows drivers to upload their documents, and even upload photos.
The institute also offers the option of receiving an automatic notification when it is the right time to renew your driving licence. The IMT will also inform you when your driving licence expires, and when you can renew it.
Time frame
Getting your driving license getting your driving license in Portugal can be a lengthy process. The IMT can take as long as 30 days to process your request and may take longer if you are applying during peak times. While you wait you can drive with a foreign license or temporary permit.
The online portal of IMT allows you to view the status of your application and track your progress, however some applications require an in-person visit. In certain cases you can submit the required documents from your country of origin, making the process much easier.
If you're looking to exchange your EU driver's license, it's crucial to complete the process in the earliest time possible. This will protect your license from being stolen or lost while you're waiting for it to be processed. It's also crucial to get an Portuguese license prior to traveling abroad. The IMT cannot replace your EU license if it is stolen or lost in a different nation.
After you've completed your application, you'll be required to pass a medical exam. This is a simple exam to determine if you're mentally fit enough to drive a car. The test doesn't include bloodwork or stress tests therefore it's simple to pass. The IMT website contains an approved list of doctors for this exam.
After you've passed your medical examination, you can then start preparation for the practical and theory exams. The theory exam can be taken at the IMT or an examination center that is private, but you must have completed the preparatory classes prior to taking it. The practical test can be taken independently or as a part of the theory test. If you choose to take the theory test and the practical test together, you will require your certificate of the preparation class with you. You will have to retake the test if you don't.
Insurance
If you're planning to move to Portugal be sure to obtain your driver's license replaced as soon as you can. Failing to do so could result in fines or a delay in getting your residence permit. It is also recommended that you complete the exchange within 90 days of receiving your residency permit.

Before exchanging your old license for one that is a Portuguese license, you'll need to obtain a Certificate Of Authentication. This document can be obtained from the Embassy of your country or through consular services in Portugal.
You'll also need to pass a medical exam. The exam isn't as difficult as you think. It's a combination of bloodwork and a check-up to ensure that you are able to drive safely. This exam costs EUR25 and is conducted by a physician from a medical group.