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 seized or revoked.
To complete your exchange, you'll need the following documents: an ID and an completed IMT Modelo 13 form, and proofs of residence. You may require an exam for medical conditions.
Cost
The cost of purchasing the IMT driving license is based on whether you choose to take the test in person or online. In person, the test is EUR15 and lasts 30 minutes. The test consists of 30 multiple choice questions that cover the syllabus you learned in your preparation classes. The test is in Portuguese However, you can also choose to have it translated into English. The IMT website lists private centers that offer this test.
The IMT also offers an online service for replacement of stolen or lost drivers' licenses. The website allows citizens register their request for a digital certification. You can then show the certificate at a police station and receive a replacement license within eight weeks. You could also submit your request in person at an IMT counter. You will need an ID document like a citizen card, taxpayer number, residence permit or passport and an completed Modelo 10 IMT form.
After you have moved to Portugal it is crucial to exchange your foreign driving license to the Portuguese driver's license as soon as you can. This will help you avoid massive fines if your foreign license is lost or stolen. In addition, you must obtain your new Portuguese license before the validity of your previous one runs out.
You can submit your request online or in person at a IMT office. In-person visits are the most common for more complex applications, such as those that require the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings may require additional documents, for example, an official translation of your foreign license or the copy of your home country's governing body.

The US has no central database of driving licenses, unlike other countries. This could mean it will take longer for IMT to verify the authenticity of your driver's permit. Fortunately, you can get around 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 for a Portuguese license can be a bit confusing and time-consuming. You must be prepared with all the necessary documentation before going to an IMT branch. Also, you should bring cash if the branch does not accept credit cards. Download the SIGA app on your phone to determine how many people will be dealt with at any given moment.
Requirements
A foreign driver's license may be exchanged to obtain an Portuguese driving license without taking the Portuguese driving test. The process can still be long. You may have to organize your documents, but you will also need to attend preparation classes and pass the theory test either at IMT or privately. To be eligible for the driving test you must pass 28 hours of theory lessons and 32 hours of practical ones. These lessons are taught in government-approved centres. These centers are listed on the website of the IMT. The duration of these lessons is dependent on your availability and your progress.
To exchange your foreign license, you will need to present an abstract of driving documents from the state in which you resided the last time in the United States. The document must be apostilled or stamped to be valid in your application to IMT. The embassy will authenticate this certificate for you. You can also bring it to an in-person appointment with IMT.
You can apply for a driving license certificate on the internet or in person at the IMT office in your city. Online is quicker and less stressful. You'll need to provide an identification document, such as your taxpayer number or citizen card, to submit a request. If you're exchanging an international license, you'll also require your passport or resident permit.
The IMT has a new service that allows drivers to request a duplicate license online. This new service is easy and can save you time and money. The IMT has launched a new website which allows drivers to upload their documents, and can even upload photos.
Moreover, the institute offers the possibility of receiving an automatic notification when it's the appropriate moment to renew the driving licence. The IMT will also tell you when your driving license expires, and when you can renew it.
Time frame
The process of getting your driver's license in Portugal is a long process. It can take as long as 30 days for the IMT to complete your application, and even longer during peak times. While waiting you can drive using your foreign license or a temporary permit.
The IMT's online portal lets you to check the status of your application and monitor your progress. However, certain applications require an in-person visit. In certain instances you may be able to provide the required documents from your home country which makes the process faster.
If you're attempting to exchange your EU driver's license, it's crucial to complete the process as soon as you can. This will prevent your license from being stolen or lost while you wait for it to be processed. It's also essential to obtain a Portuguese license prior to traveling abroad. The IMT cannot replace your EU license if it's stolen or lost in a different country.
After you've submitted your application, you'll have to undergo a medical examination. It's a quick test to ensure that you're mentally able to operate the vehicle. It doesn't contain tests for stress or bloodwork, so it should be simple to pass. The IMT website has a list of doctors who have been approved to administer this exam.
Once you have passed your medical exam then you can begin preparation for both the practical and theory examinations. The theory test can be taken at the IMT or a private examination center but 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 choose to take the theory test and the practical test together, you'll require a certificate of the preparation class along with you. Otherwise, mouse click the next document 'll be required to take the exam at a later time.
Insurance
If you're planning to move to Portugal and want to move there, you must have your driver's licence changed as soon as possible. Failure to do this could result in fines or a delay in getting your residence permit. It is also recommended to complete the change within 90 days of receiving your residency permit.
Whether you're an EU resident or not, you need to obtain a Certificate of Authentication for your license prior to changing it to one that is a Portuguese one. This document can be obtained from the embassy in your country or consular service in Portugal.
You'll have to pass a medical exam. This test isn't as difficult as you think. This exam includes bloodwork and physical examination to confirm that you are able to drive safely. The test costs EUR25 and is conducted by a doctor who is part of an organization that deals with medical issues.