How to Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're planning to move to Portugal from another EU country, the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) recommends that you exchange your license prior to the risk of it getting lost or stolen. Here's how you can do it.
A medical exam is required to start the process. You can purchase it online to cut down on time.
How to apply
The process of obtaining an IMT driving license involves taking a series of theory and practical lessons. These lessons are taken in government-licensed facilities and taught by experienced instructors. It takes 28 hours of theory and 32 practical lessons to complete the course. The cost of these classes differs, but you can save money by signing up with an agency that provides classes in groups for less than $100.
The next step is the theoretical test. This exam is available on the internet and at public institutions and is about 30 minutes long. It is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions to answer using a computer. The questions are based off the syllabus you were taught during your preparation classes. You must answer 27 of the questions right to pass the test.
After you have passed the theory test and passed the theory test, you will need to take a practical exam. This test can be conducted at a private driving school or at the IMT. The exam costs EUR30 and the IMT gives you a temporary driving licence while you wait for your license.
You must have a valid passport, residency card or medical certificate and an attestation from your country of birth. The embassy will also authenticate and notarize documents for a fee.
To exchange your foreign driver's license to a Portuguese driving licence You will need to visit the Institute for Mobility and Transport ("Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes") office. It is recommended to arrive early as the office is usually busy. You should arrive at a minimum of an hour before the office opens.
The Instituto da Mobilidade e Transportes created an online platform to allow drivers to check their driver's license renewal date. The platform is available by both Portuguese and foreign citizens as well as foreign. It also provides information about road traffic regulations and rules.
Requirements
If you're a citizen of Portugal, it's essential to exchange your driving licence to a Portuguese one as soon as possible. Otherwise, you'll be facing massive penalties. The process is typically bureaucratic, so it's best to begin the process as soon as you get your residence permit. Also, it's important to inform the institute of mobility and transport that you'll be using the old license, as it is legally required.
You must visit an IMT with all the necessary documents. You must bring your driver's license as well as proof of address, residence card and a medical exam. The medical exam must be conducted by a physician registered with the IMT. The doctor will then issue a certificate that's specific to your license. They will transmit it to the IMT via their online medical certificate platform.
Once you've filled out all of these documents, you'll be eligible to take the driving test. The test typically lasts 40 to 50 minutes. You will be accompanied by an instructor, the examiner and another person who is taking the test. Be prepared to spend Comprar a carta de condução do IMT of time driving back and forth.
If you're from a country without a bilateral arrangement you'll need a certified translation. This is required either by the issuing entity, or by the consular service. It should include the categories that were derived through a test and those that were acquired by the process of equivalence. Additionally, you'll require an assessment of psychological quality that must be signed by an authorized psychologist.
You must also submit a certified abstract of your driving record from the United States, which must be authenticated. You can find the list of states who are authorized to provide this service here. This document is crucial to the process of getting a driving license and could take up to a month to receive from the U.S. Furthermore, this process could be extended if the U.S. doesn't have a reciprocal arrangement with the European Union. Additionally, you must take into account that the IMT is usually understaffed and the processing time can be long.
Fees
It can be costly to obtain your first driving license. The cost of the driving classes and the test on the road can be as high as EUR250. However, it's crucial to begin the process as soon as possible so that you can receive your new driving license before the deadline. You may be charged a late fee for not submitting your application in time.
The Institute of Mobility and Transport has launched an online service that allows citizens to obtain a certificate. The new service is a great alternative to visiting the IMT offices in person and is a good idea for those who wish to reduce time. The service is accessible to all drivers with the digital mobile key or citizen card. It lets them save 10% on the cost they would have paid at IMT offices. The certificate, which has an updated design is valid for a period of six months and is verified by examining the QR CODE or verification code.
Once you have all of your documents in order, you are able to submit a request for the exchange of your driving license. The IMT requires that you provide an account of your driving history. You can obtain this from the government or a private driving school. The embassy can assist with the process of getting this document, however, you must ensure that the apostille is present on the document prior to sending it to the IMT.
If you are a resident of Portugal and are a citizen of the EU or EEA You will have to exchange your driving license to a Portuguese license within two years of having moved to Portugal. Along with your driving license you must provide an unissued title document from your country of origin. The embassy can assist in this process by legalizing the document.
The test for theory comprises 30 multiple-choice tests and lasts approximately 30 minutes. You must complete at least 27 correct answers to pass. The questions are similar to those that are taught in preparation classes. The test is taken in a car, accompanied by an instructor and a second candidate taking the test.
Timeframe
If you're looking to exchange your driving license, be prepared to wait a long time. Based on the country you reside in you may have to submit additional documents. If you're unsure what documents you'll require, you can go to the IMT website.
The IMT introduces a brand new service called "My Driving License." This online platform allows you to view the status of your driving licence and determine when it is time for you to renew. The IMT offers a mobile application that will help you start the process of exchange your American drivers license for one from Portugal.
You can also report the theft or loss of your license by using the My Driving License platform. If you've lost or taken your license, you'll have to give it back to the IMT. You will be issued a replacement after you've submitted the psychotechnical certificate.
Once you have uploaded all the required documents, you will receive an email from the IMT confirming that they have received your application. The IMT will review your application within a couple of weeks or days. After they have processed it and notified you of the outcome via email or via phone. If your driver's licence is not accepted, a certificate will be issued to permit you to drive (but only within Portugal). The IMT will send you your new Portuguese driving license via post.
When you arrive in Portugal, it's best to schedule an appointment with the IMT. You might have to wait for a while if you do not make an appointment. It's also a good idea to carry your ID card and NIF number with you when you go.