How to Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're moving to Portugal from another EU country The Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) recommends that you exchange your license before you risk it getting lost or stolen. Here's how you can do it.
The process involves the taking of a medical exam. It is possible to order it online to cut down on time.
How to Apply
The process of obtaining an IMT driving license involves taking the following practical and theory-based lessons. These lessons are taken in government-licensed facilities and taught by certified instructors. The course is made up of 28 hours of theory and 32 hours of hands-on lessons. The cost of these classes varies, but you can save money by signing up with an agency that offers classes in groups for less than 100 euros.
The next step is to take the theory test (exame de codigo). The test is available online or at public institutions and lasts around 30 minutes. It consists of 30 multiple choice questions to complete on the computer. The questions are based off the syllabus that you studied during your preparation classes. Comprar a carta de condução do IMT must get 27 correct answers to pass the test.
After passing the theory test and passed the theory test, you will need to take a test in the practical. You can take the test at a private driving school or at the IMT office. The test costs $30, and the IMT will provide you with a an interim driver's license to use while you wait to get your new licence.
You must have a valid passport, residence card or medical certificate as well as an attestation from your country of birth. The embassy can also notarize and authenticate documents for an additional cost.
To exchange your foreign driving licence to one that is a Portuguese one, you have to visit the Institute for Mobility and Transport office ("Instituto of Mobility and Transportes"). It is recommended to arrive early as the office is typically busy. If you are able, arrive an hour prior to the opening time.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes has launched an online platform that lets drivers determine when their license is due for renewal. The platform can be used by both Portuguese and foreign citizens. It also provides information on road traffic regulations and rules.
Requirements
If you're a citizen of Portugal it is imperative to switch your driving license for one that is a Portuguese one. You could be fined heavily if you don't. The process is generally bureaucratic, so it's best to start as soon as you get your residence permit. It's also essential to inform the institute of mobility and transportation that you'll be using your previous licence, since this is an obligation under the law.
You must visit an IMT with all required documents. Bring your driver's license and proof of residence and residence card, as well as an examination for medical reasons. The medical exam must be administered by a physician who is registered with the IMT. The doctor will issue a certificate specific to your license, and send it directly to the IMT through their online medical certificate platform.
The next step is the practical driving test. This test lasts between 40 and 50 minutes. You will be accompanied by an instructor, an examiner, and a person who is taking the test. You'll be required to drive going and returning so be prepared for an extremely long day!
If you are from a country that doesn't have an agreement bilaterally with Portugal You will have to provide an official translation of your driver's licence. This must be performed by the issuing agency or consular servisse, and it must include the categories derived by examination and those obtained through equivalent means. You'll also require a psychological evaluation certificate, which must be drafted by a psychologist.
You will also need to provide an authenticated and certified abstract of your United States driving record. Here you can find the list of state authorities that are authorized to provide this service. This document is essential to the driving license process, as it can take up to a month for it to be received from the U.S. Furthermore, this process could be extended if the U.S. doesn't have a reciprocal arrangement with the European Union. Lastly, you should also take into account that the IMT is usually understaffed, so the processing time may be long.
Fees
The first time you get your driver's license may be costly. The cost of the driving lessons and the practical test can be as high as EUR250. However, it's important to start the process as soon as you can so that you can receive your new license before the deadline. If you don't submit your application on time, you may have to pay a penalty for late filing of your application.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online service that allows residents to obtain a certificate. This new service is an excellent alternative to visiting IMT offices and is perfect for those who want to cut down on time. The service is available to anyone with a citizen card or mobile key, and permits drivers to save 10% of the cost they would otherwise pay at the IMT offices. The certificate, which has new design and is valid for a period of six months and can be verified by reading the QR CODE or verification code.
Once you have your documents in order you can make an application for an exchange of driving license. The IMT requires you to provide proof of your driving history. This can be obtained from the government, or a private driving instructor. The embassy can assist in obtaining this document, but you must ensure that the apostille is present on the document prior to submitting it to the IMT.
If you are a resident of Portugal, and a citizen of the EU or EEA you will need to exchange your driving licence for one of a Portuguese license within two years of having moved to Portugal. Along with your driving permit you will have to present the lost title document from your country of origin. The embassy can assist you in obtaining a legalisation of your document.
The theory test is composed of 30 multiple-choice responses and lasts approximately 30 minutes. To pass, you must be able to answer at least 27 of the 30 questions correctly. The questions are similar to those in the preparation classes. The test is conducted in a car, with an instructor and a second candidate taking the test.
Timeframe
If you're planning to exchange your driving licence be prepared for a long time. You may also have to submit additional documents depending on your country of origin. If you aren't sure what documents you need, it is best to check the official website of the IMT.

The IMT has launched a new service called "My Driving License." This platform online allows you to check the status of your driving licence and determine when it is time to renew it. The IMT provides a mobile app which will assist you in the process of exchanging an American drivers license for one in Portugal.
You can also make use of the My Driving License platform to report the loss or theft of your driving license. If you have lost or stolen your driving license You must hand it over to the IMT. You will be issued a replacement after you've submitted the psychotechnical certificate.
You will receive an email from the IMT once you have uploaded your documents. The IMT will process your application within a few weeks or days. After they have processed your application, you will be notified of the outcome via email or phone. If your driver's licence 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 mail you a new Portuguese driving license by post.
When you arrive in Portugal it is recommended to schedule an appointment with the IMT. It is possible to wait for a long time if you do not make an appointment. It's also a good idea to carry your ID card and NIF number when you visit.