Buy the IMT Driving License Online
The most effective thing to do should you be planning to change your driving license in Portugal is to start the process as soon as you get your residency card. This will save time and effort.
There are certain requirements you must meet, such as taking classes and an examination for medical reasons. Don't worry, the medical exam isn't as difficult as you think.
Requirements
If you are planning to move to Portugal, it is important to switch your foreign driving license to one that is a Portuguese one as soon as possible. This will ensure that you have a valid driver's license in the event that your vehicle is stolen or lost. You can exchange your license at the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT) offices. The process is simple however, a few documents are required. These include a medical exam and an English translation of your driving license. You can hire a professional translator to assist you.
You must also pass a driving theory test and take a practical driving lesson. The lessons are held in government-licensed driving centers. You can find the list of these centers on the IMT website. The test for theory costs 30 euros, while the practical driving test costs an additional 40 euros. You may have to take a specialized test for vehicles such as buses and other large passenger vehicles.
The IMT's website has information on how to exchange an international driving license to Portugal. It is important to verify the IMT's site before moving because there are different rules for each country. Expats from the United States, for example have to present a proof of equivalence from their home state.
Before allowing you to exchange your driving license, the IMT will require your identity card or passport. It will also require a certified copy of your driving record. You can obtain an official copy of your driving record from your home state or from a notary public. The notary will charge an amount for his services.
Fees
As of today, the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) has launched an online service that enables citizens to obtain a driver's license certificate. To use the service, drivers must to have their citizen card or mobile key and access IMT's My Driving License website. Once they have registered, the license can be issued either in Portuguese or English. It is valid for six month. Its authenticity can be verified by scanning the QR code or entering the verification code.
Once you've filled out the form, wait for the IMT's indication to go to one of their desks to register your application and submit your biometric data. You'll also have to pay a fee for the exam which IMT will inform you of later on.
It is important to remember that the process can take some time, especially because the US doesn't have a system to automatically exchange documents such as driver's licenses with Portugal. Once you submit your documentation, it may take several weeks for IMT to check it and return it to you.
Make sure that the documents you send to IMT are clearly marked with your name and address. It's also a good idea to scan all the documents before you send them to ensure that you can easily find them in the event of need. If you are applying for a license on behalf of multiple family members, label each document in a different way to avoid confusion. This will save time and will avoid any delays.
Timeframe
If you have a valid driver's license issued in a country that is a party to the international road traffic convention, you are able to exchange it for a Portuguese one within 60 days of arriving in Portugal. You can do this either on the internet or at an IMT desk. You must also bring the Modelo 10 IMT completed form and a proof of identification. In addition, you must sign up on the IMT website using your taxpayer number and password.
Those who are exchanging their licenses from countries outside the EU will be required to pay additional fees. If you hold a US driving license, for example, you will be required to get an abstract from the authorities of your state and an official doctor's certificate confirming that you are legally able to drive. The medical examination will be carried out by an expert doctor who will ask general health questions and then give you a summary of the neurological test.
The process is time-consuming but it's worth it. It's also a good idea to get your license as quickly as you can so that it doesn't get lost or stolen.
If you are submitting an application for a license, make sure to scan and save all documents in a separate manner. If possible, you should give each file a distinct name to avoid confusion. Once you've completed your application, you'll receive a confirmation email from IMT to inform you of the status of your application. You will also be provided with an appointment to take the driving test at IMT.
Practical lessons
The driving lessons are offered in centers that are licensed by the government and are overseen by qualified instructors. The duration of the learning is between 28 and 32 hours. Before you can take an exam, you must complete both the theory and the practical classes. The exam will be held at the same location that you took your theory test, so you must be familiar with the environment by this point. The test is 30 questions long, and you're permitted to make three mistakes. The questions are in line with the syllabus you learned in your preparation classes. The tests are not administered online, but you can download the syllabus and practice the questions on a variety of sites.
You may also opt to take the test at a private institution however, this is contingent on the availability of dates and professionals. You'll also need to pay EUR30 and provide an official medical certificate that proves your fitness to drive. Renewals could also require an eye test. After passing Comprar a carta de condução do IMT 'll be issued your license by mail.
You can also find a list with certified centers on the IMT website. It is crucial to determine whether the center has a trained instructor. Do not hesitate to request another instructor if you are not satisfied with the instructor's quality. The instructor will assist you to pass the practical driving exam by guiding you on how to maneuver the car and manage traffic. You'll also have to learn about the highway code and road signs in Portugal. The cost of driving classes in Portugal can differ from centre to centre. It is recommended to visit the IMT website and compare prices to find the best price.
Theory test
The Institute of Mobility and Transport offers both theory and practical driving classes. It is possible to get an driver's license through the IMT only after passing a theoretical and a practical exam. It is also required to obtain a certification of a favorable psychological evaluation. The theoretical exam, or "exame of codigo," consists of 30 questions that need to be correctly answered in 35 minutes. It is available at IMT or in private examination centers. If you are an international student you can ask the IMT to translate your questions into English.
The driving test that is practical, or "exame de velocidade" is between 40 and 50 minutes. It involves a test drive along a city route. You will be rated by the examiner and the instructor. If you pass the practical test then the IMT will issue a license to you by mail.
To be able to pass the practical and theoretical tests you must take at least 28 theoretical classes and 16 practical classes. You may choose to take your theoretical exam before completing the required number practical classes. You'll need to pay for the practical classes separately.
If you don't have enough money to buy a car You can lease one through a driving school. This will let you test your driving skills without worrying about the expense of an entirely new vehicle. Just make sure you research the various schools in your area to locate the one that is best for you. Verify the insurance policy of the vehicle you're planning to rent prior making your reservation. The rental company might decline your claim if they don't have the correct insurance.