Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're not a European citizen and are new to Portugal it is crucial to transfer your driver's license from another country as soon as you can. If you don't, your license could be confiscated or cancelled.
In order to complete your exchange, you'll need to submit the following documents: an ID, an completed IMT Modelo 13 form, and proof of residence. You may need to have an exam for medical conditions.
Cost
The cost for purchasing the IMT driving license varies based on whether you want to take the test in person or online. In person, the test costs EUR15 and lasts 30 minutes. It's comprised of 30 multiple choice questions that cover the syllabus that you've learned in your preparation classes. The test is available in Portuguese or English. The IMT website lists private centers that provide this test.
The IMT provides a service online for replacing lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website lets citizens submit their request for a digital certification. You can then take the certificate to an officer station to receive a new license within eight weeks. In addition, you may submit your request to an IMT desk in person. You will need an ID document like a citizen card or taxpayer number, residence permit or passport, and the completed Modelo 10 IMT form.
It's important to exchange your driver's license to one that is a Portuguese one as soon as you can after moving to Portugal. This will shield you from heavy fines if your foreign license gets lost or stolen. In addition, you must obtain your new Portuguese license before the validity of your old one ends.
You can apply in person at an IMT office or online. However in-person visits are more frequent for applications that are complex, including those involving the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings can require additional documents, such as the translation of a foreign license or a copy from your home country.
Unlike systems in other countries, the US doesn't have a central database of driving licenses. It can take IMT longer to verify your driver's license. You can avoid this problem by asking IMT for an extension of the temporary paper driver's licence if it is about to expire.
The process of changing your US driver's license to a Portuguese one can be a bit confusing and time-consuming. You must prepare all the necessary documentation before going to an IMT branch. Also, you should bring cash in case the office does not accept credit cards. Download the SIGA app on your phone to see how many persons are being handled at any given moment.
Requirements
You can exchange a foreign driving licence for one that is a Portuguese license without taking the Portuguese driving test. Nevertheless, the process can be a lengthy one. You may need to arrange your documents, but you will be required to attend preparatory classes and take the test in theory either at IMT or privately. You must have completed 32 hours of practical lessons and 28 hours of theory to be eligible for your driving test. The lessons are conducted in government-approved centers. These centers are listed on the website of the IMT. The length of these lessons is contingent on your availability and the progress you make.
To exchange your foreign driver's license you must submit an abstract of driving records from the state where you last resided in the United States. This document needs to be apostilled/stamped in order to be valid for inclusion in your application with IMT. The embassy will verify the certificate. You can bring it along to your appointment in person with IMT.
You can apply for a driving license certificate online or in person at the IMT office in your city. Online is quicker and less stressful. You'll need an identification document, such as your taxpayer number or citizenship card, in order to submit an application. If you're exchanging a foreign license, you'll also need your passport or resident permit.
The IMT offers an innovative service that permits drivers to request duplicate driving licenses online. This service is convenient and could save you time and money. The IMT has developed an online portal that allows drivers to upload their documents and can even upload an image.
In addition, the institute provides the option of receiving an automatic notification when it's the appropriate moment to renew the driving licence. In addition it also informs you of the IMT also informs you of the expiration date of your driving licence as well as how to renew it.
Time frame
The process of obtaining your driver's license in Portugal isn't easy and can take a long time. The IMT can take up 30 days to process your application, and even longer if you apply during peak times. You can drive while waiting with your foreign driving license or temporary permit.
You can track the status of your application online and monitor its progress. However, some applications require an individual visit. In certain instances you may be able to provide the required documents from your home country which makes the process quicker.
It's crucial to apply as soon as possible in the event that you wish to exchange your EU driving license. This will prevent your license from being lost or stolen while you wait for it to be processed. It's also crucial to obtain a Portuguese licence before traveling abroad. The IMT will not be able to replace your EU license if it's stolen or lost in a different country.
Once you've completed your application, a medical exam will be required. This is a straightforward test to confirm that you're mentally fit to operate a vehicle. This test does not include stress tests or blood tests, so it should be simple to pass. The IMT website has the list of doctors certified to conduct this test.
Once you've passed the medical exam and passed the medical exam, you can begin preparation for the practical and theory tests. The theory test can be taken at the IMT or an examination center privately owned but you must have completed your preparation classes prior to taking the exam. The practical test can be taken independently or in conjunction with the theory exam. If you decide to take the theory test and the practical test together, you'll require your certificate of preparation with you. You will have to retake the test if you do not.
Insurance
If you're planning to relocate to Portugal, make sure you have your driver's licence changed in the earliest time possible. Failure to do this could result in fines or delays in obtaining your residence permit. It is also recommended that you complete the exchange within 90 days of receiving your residency permit.
Before you can exchange your old license to one that is a Portuguese license, you'll need to obtain an authentic Certificate of Authenticity. 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. Fortunately, the exam isn't as lengthy as you might think. It consists of bloodwork and a check-up that will ensure you can safely drive. Comprar carta de condução da categoria A costs EUR25 and is administered by a doctor from an medical group.