How to Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're moving to Portugal from an EU country The Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) recommends that you exchange your license before you risk losing it or being stolen. Here's how to do it.
The process requires the taking of a medical exam. The good news is that you can apply online and avoid waiting.
How to apply
The process to obtain an IMT driving license requires a series of theory and practical lessons. These lessons are held in government-licensed centers and taught by certified instructors. It takes 28 hours of theory lessons and 32 practical lessons to complete the course. The classes are available at various prices, however you can save by signing up for a group lesson that costs less than EUR100.
The next step is to take the theoretical test. This test is available on the internet or at public institutions and lasts approximately 30 minutes. The exam is comprised of 30 multiple choice questions that you need to solve using the computer. The questions are based off the syllabus you were taught during your preparation classes. You must get 27 of the questions right to pass the exam.
After passing the theory test, you'll be required to pass the practical exam. You can take the test at private driving schools or at the IMT office. mouse click the next document and the IMT will provide you with an interim driver's license to use while you wait for your new license.
You must have a valid passport or residence card, medical certificate and an attestation of your driving license from your country of origin. The embassy will also authenticate and notarize documents at a fee.
To exchange your foreign driver's licence to an Portuguese driving license, you will need go to the Institute for Mobility and Transport ("Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes") office. The office is usually busy, therefore it is advised to go early. If you can, arrive an hour prior to the opening time.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes has launched an online platform that allows drivers to determine when their license is due to renew. The platform is accessible to both Portuguese and non-Portuguese citizens. It also provides information on road traffic regulations and rules.
Requirements
If you are a resident of Portugal it is crucial to switch your driving license for one that is a Portuguese one. If you don't, you could be subject to massive fines. The process is generally bureaucratic, so it's best to start as soon as you get your residence permit. It is also important to inform the institute of mobility and transport that you'll be using the old licence, since this is an obligation under the law.
You must visit an IMT with all required documents. You must bring your driver's license, proof of address, a residence card and a medical exam. The medical exam must be conducted by a physician who is registered with the IMT. The doctor will issue a certificate specific to your license, and send it directly the IMT through their online medical certificate platform.
Once you've submitted all of these documents, you'll be able to proceed to the driving test. The test typically lasts 40 to 50 minutes. You will be accompanied with an instructor, an examiner and a third person taking the test. Be prepared to spend a lot of time driving back and forth.
If you're a citizen of a country without a bilateral arrangement you'll need an official translation. This is required either by the issuing entity or the consular service. It should include categories that were determined through a test and those that were acquired by the process of equivalence. Additionally, you'll require an assessment certificate for psychological testing, which must be written by an authorized psychologist.
You also need to submit an authenticated certified abstract of your United States driving record. You can find the list of state authorities that are authorised to perform this service here. This document is crucial to the driving license process and can take up to a month for it to be received from the U.S. Additionally, the process could be longer when the U.S. doesn't have a reciprocal arrangement with the European Union. Additionally, you must consider that the IMT is often in need of staff and therefore the processing time can be lengthy.
Fees
It isn't cheap to get your first driver's license. The driving classes aren't cost-free, and the practical exam can cost up to EUR250. It is crucial to begin the process as quickly as you can to receive your new license before the deadline. If you fail to do this then, you could be required to pay a penalty for late submission of your application.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online service that allows citizens to get a certificate. The new service is an excellent alternative to visiting the IMT offices in person and is a great idea for those looking to save time. The service is open to all drivers who have an electronic mobile key or a citizen card. It lets them save 10% off the fee they would have incurred at IMT offices. The certificate, which features an updated design and is valid for six months and is verified by examining the QR CODE or verification code.
Once you have all your documents in order, you are able to submit a request for the exchange of your driving license. You must provide the IMT with proof of driving history. This can be obtained from the government, or a private driving instructor. The embassy can help you with the process of getting this document, but you must ensure that the apostille is on the document before sending it to the IMT.
If you're a citizen of an EU or EEA country, you must change your driving licence to a Portuguese one within two years of taking up residence in the country. Along with your driving licence, you will need to present a lost title document from your country. The embassy can assist you by legalising your document.
The theory test consists of 30 multiple-choice questions that last approximately 30 minutes. To pass, you must be able to answer at least 27 of the 30 questions correctly. The questions are similar to the ones you will encounter in the preparation classes. The test is conducted in the car, with an instructor and a candidate taking the test.
Timeframe
If you're planning to exchange your driving license be prepared to wait an extended period. Depending on your country, you may need to provide additional documents. If you are unsure of what documents you need, it is best to look up the official website of the IMT.
The IMT is introducing a new service dubbed "My Driving License." This online platform allows you to view the status of your driving licence and to determine when it's time to renew. The IMT also offers a mobile app that helps you start the process of changing your American drivers license to a Portuguese one.
You can also make use of the My Driving License platform to report theft or loss of your driving license. If you've lost or stolen your driving license you must turn it over to the IMT. You will receive a new one after you've submitted the psychotechnical certificate.
Comprar carta de condução da categoria A will receive an email from the IMT once you have uploaded your documents. The IMT will review your application within a couple of weeks or days. After they have processed it they will inform you of the results by email or by phone. If your driver's license is not accepted and you are not accepted, you will receive an official document that allows you to drive (albeit within Portugal). The IMT will then send your new Portuguese driving license by mail.
It is best to schedule an appointment at the IMT when you first arrive in Portugal. It is possible to wait for a while if you don't schedule an appointment. It is also a good idea to carry your ID card and NIF number with you when you go.