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 do not get your license, it could be confiscated or cancelled.
In order to complete your exchange, you'll need to submit the following documents: a photo ID, the completed IMT Modelo 13 form, and proof of residence. You may require an exam for medical conditions.
Cost
The cost of buying the IMT driving license varies depending on whether you choose to take the theory test in person or online. The test costs $15 in person and lasts 30 minutes. The test consists of 30 multiple-choice questions that are based on the syllabus you learned in preparation classes. The test is available in Portuguese or English. The IMT website provides the list of private centers offering the test.
The IMT provides a service online to replace lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website allows users to register their request and receive an electronic certificate. Then, you can take the certificate to the police station to obtain an updated license within eight weeks. In addition, you may make your request at an IMT desk in person. You'll require an ID document like a citizen card or taxpayer number, a passport or residence permit, and the completed Modelo 10 IMT form.
After you have moved to Portugal it is essential to exchange your current foreign driving license for a Portuguese driver's license as quickly as you can. You will be protected from heavy penalties in the event that your foreign driver's license is 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. 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, such as an official translation of your foreign license or a copy of your country's governing body.
The US has no central database for driving licenses, unlike other countries. This can mean that it will take longer for IMT to verify the authenticity of your driver's license. You can avoid this problem by asking IMT for an extension of your temporary driver's license in the event that it is soon to expire.
The process of changing your US driver's licence for one with a Portuguese license can be a bit confusing and time-consuming. You need to prepare all the necessary documentation prior to going to an IMT office, and you should 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 time.
Requirements
A foreign driver's license can be exchanged for the Portuguese driving license without taking the Portuguese driving test. However, Comprar carta de condução categoria B can be a lengthy one. In addition to arranging your documentation and preparing your documents, you might also have to take preparation classes and take the theory test at IMT or a private examination center. You must have completed 32 hours of lessons in the classroom and 28 hours of theory to be eligible for your driving test. These lessons are taught in government-approved centres. You can find the list of these centers on the IMT website. The duration of the classes is contingent on your availability and your performance.
To exchange your foreign license you must present an abstract of driving records from the state where you most recently resided in the United States. This document must be apostilled/stamped to be valid in your application to IMT. The embassy can authenticate the certificate for you. You can bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply online or in an IMT office close to you. The online application process is simpler and less stressful. However, you will need an identification document such as your citizen card or taxpayer number in order to submit a request. If please click the next document exchanging an international license, you'll also require your passport or resident permit.
The IMT offers a new service that allows drivers to request a duplicate driver's license online. This new service is convenient and could save your time and money. The IMT created a portal which lets drivers upload their documents, and even upload a picture.
The institute also gives you the possibility of receiving an automatic notification when the time is right to renew your driving licence. The IMT will also tell you when your driving license expires, and when you can renew it.
Time frame
The process of obtaining your Portuguese driving license can be lengthy. The IMT could take up to 30 days to process your application, and even longer if you are applying during peak periods. You can drive while waiting for the IMT to process your application using your driving license from another country or temporary permit.
You can track the status of an application online and follow the progress of an application. However certain applications require a personal visit. In some cases you can submit the required documents from your home country. This makes the process much quicker.
If you're attempting to exchange your EU driver's license, it's important to make the change as soon as possible. This will prevent your license being stolen or lost while you wait for it to be processed. It's also essential to get a Portuguese license prior to travelling abroad, since the IMT cannot replace your EU licence if it is stolen or lost in another country.
After you have submitted your application, a medical examination is required. This is a straightforward test to determine if you're mentally fit enough to drive a vehicle. This test does not include bloodwork or stress tests therefore it's easy to pass. The IMT website has a list of doctors who are approved to administer this exam.
Once you've passed the medical exam you can now begin preparing for the practical and theory tests. The theory test can be taken at the IMT or an examination center that is private however, you must have completed the preparatory classes before taking it. The practical test can be taken as a stand-alone test or in conjunction with the theory test. If you decide to take the test alongside the theory exam it is essential to ensure that you have your preparation class certificate with you at the time of the test. You'll need to retake the exam if you don't.
Insurance
If you're planning to relocate to Portugal, make sure you get your driver's license exchanged as soon as you can. In the event of delay, it could result in fines or delays in obtaining your residence permit. It is also recommended to complete the change within 90 days of receiving your residency permit.
If you're an EU resident or not, you must obtain a Certificate of Authentication for your old license before exchanging it for a Portuguese one. This document can be obtained at the Embassy of your country, or through consular services in Portugal.
You'll also have to pass a medical examination. This test isn't as difficult as you think. It's a combination of bloodwork and a check-up to ensure you're able to drive safely. This exam costs EUR25 and is conducted by a doctor who is part of a medical group.