Buy the IMT Driving License
If you are a non-EU citizen and are new to Portugal, you should change your driving license from a foreign country as soon as you can. If you don't, your license could be seized or revoked.
You'll require the following documents to complete your exchange: ID and the completed IMT Modelo 13 application, and proof of residency. You may need to have an exam for medical conditions.
Cost
The cost of buying the IMT driving license is based on whether you decide to take the test in person or online. In person, the test is 15 euros and lasts for 30 minutes. It consists of 30 multiple-choice questions that cover the syllabus you've learned in your preparatory classes. The test is in Portuguese, but you can also choose to have it translated into English. The IMT website provides an extensive list of private centers offering the test.
The IMT offers a service online for replacing lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website lets citizens make a request for replacement and receive an electronic certificate. Then, you can present the certificate at a police station and receive an alternative license within eight weeks. You could also submit your request in person at an IMT counter. You will need a valid ID document, such as a passport, a taxpayer number, a citizenship card or a residence permit. Additionally, you'll have to fill out the Modelo 10 IMT Form.
It's important to change your foreign driver's license to a Portuguese one immediately after you move to Portugal. This will shield you from heavy fines if your foreign license is lost or stolen. In addition, you must obtain your new Portuguese license before the validity of your old one ends.
You can submit your application online or in person at a IMT office. However, in-person visits are more frequent for applications that are complex that require the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings can require additional documentation, such as an original foreign license translated 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. 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 one that is a Portuguese one can be confusing and lengthy. You must be prepared with all the necessary documentation before going to an IMT branch. Also, it is recommended to bring cash if the office does not accept credit cards. A good tip is to download an application called SIGA on your mobile, which lets you know how many people are being dealt with and how long you'll need to wait.
Requirements
You can exchange a foreign driving licence for a Portuguese license without taking the Portuguese driving test. The process can still be lengthy. You may have to organize your documents, but you'll be required to attend preparatory classes and then take the theory test either at IMT or privately. You must have completed 32 hours of lessons in the classroom and 28 hours of theory in order to be able to pass your driving test. These lessons are taught at government-approved centers. These centers are listed on the website of the IMT. The length of these lessons depends on your availability and the progress you make.
To exchange your foreign license you must submit an abstract of driving documents from the state in which you most recently resided in the United States. This document must be apostilled/stamped to be valid when included in your application to IMT. The embassy will then authenticate the certificate. You can also bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply online or in an IMT office near you. The online application process is simpler and less stressful. You'll need to provide an identification document, like your taxpayer number or a citizen card, to make a request. If you're exchanging a foreign license, you'll also need your passport or resident permit.
The IMT has a new program that allows drivers to request a duplicate license online. This service is convenient and can save your time and money. The IMT has launched an online portal that allows drivers to upload their documents and can even provide photos.
The institute also offers the possibility of receiving an automatic notification when it 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 getting your driver's license in Portugal can be a lengthy process. It can take up to 30 days for the IMT to process your application and even longer during the peak hours. While you wait you can drive with your foreign license or temporary permit.
You can track the status of your application online and monitor the progress of an application. However, some applications require an individual visit. In some cases you can submit the required documents from your country of origin, making the process much quicker.
If you're attempting to exchange your EU driver's license, you must complete the process in the earliest time possible. This will stop your license from being lost or stolen while you wait for it to be processed. It's also essential to obtain a Portuguese licence before traveling abroad. The IMT will not be able to replace your EU license if it's lost or stolen in another nation.
Once you've submitted your application, a medical exam will be required. It's a quick test to determine if you are mentally fit to drive a vehicle. It doesn't contain bloodwork or a stress test and therefore should be simple to pass. The IMT website has a list of approved physicians for this test.
After passing your medical test, you can start preparation for both the practical and theory examinations. 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 separately or in conjunction with the theory exam. If you choose to take the practical test in conjunction with the theory test be sure that you have your certificate of preparation present at the time of the test. You'll have to take the test if you don't.
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If you plan to move to Portugal in the near future, it is recommended to exchange your driver's license as soon as you can. Failing to do so could result in a fine or delay in getting your residence permit. It's also best to make the exchange within 90 days of receiving your residency permit.
No matter if you're an EU resident or not, you'll need to get a Certificate of Authentication for your previous license prior to exchanging it for one that is a Portuguese one. This document can be obtained from the embassy in your country or consular service in Portugal.
You'll need to pass a medical exam. This test isn't as difficult as you think. The test includes bloodwork as well as physical examination to confirm that you're able to drive safely. A doctor from a medical network can conduct this test costing around EUR25.