Buy the IMT Driving License Online
The best option to take if you plan to exchange your driving licence in Portugal is to start the process as quickly as you receive your residency card. This will help you save time and effort in the long run.
There are a few requirements you need to meet, such as taking classes and an examination for medical reasons. However, don't worry about it you can pass the medical test - it's not as difficult as it appears.
Requirements
If you are planning to move to Portugal it is crucial that you exchange your foreign driving licence for a Portuguese driving licence as soon as possible. This will ensure that you have an official 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 relatively simple, but you will need to bring a number of documents with you. These include a medical test and a translation of your foreign driving license. You can hire an expert translator from lingoking to help you with this process.
You must also pass the driving theory test and complete a practical lesson. These lessons are offered in government-licensed driving centers. You can find a list of these centers on the IMT website. The theory test costs 30 euros, and the practical driving test will cost you an additional 40 euros. You may be required to take a specialized test for vehicles like buses or other large passenger vehicles.
The IMT's website contains details on how to exchange a foreign driving license in Portugal. There are different rules for each country, so it is important to verify the IMT's website prior to making a move. For instance, foreigners who are exiled from the United States must submit a certificate of the equivalent of their home state.
The IMT will need to see your passport or identification card before allowing you to change your driving license. It will also need to examine a certified copy your driving record. You can obtain an official copy from your state of residence or from a public notary. The notary will charge you an amount for his services.
Fees

As of today, the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) has launched an online service that allows citizens to obtain a driving license certificate. To be able to use the service drivers need to have their digital mobile key or citizen card, and access IMT's "My Driving License" portal. Once they have registered, the license is issued in Portuguese or English. It is valid for a period of six months. The authenticity of the certificate is verified by scanning the QR Code or by entering the verification codes.
Wait for IMT to notify you that you are able to go to their office to register your application and submit biometric information. You'll also be required to pay a fee for the exam, which IMT will inform you of in the future.
Note that the process can take some time, particularly since the US doesn't have an automated system for exchanging documents like driver's licences with Portugal. Once you've submitted your documents it may take a few weeks for IMT to review it and return it back to you.
Be sure to clearly label the documents that you send to IMT with your name and contact details. It's also a good idea to scan all documents prior to sending them so that you can find them in the event of need. If you are applying for a license on behalf of several family members, label each document in a different way to avoid confusion. This will save time and avoid delays.
Timeframe
If you arrive in Portugal with a valid driving license issued by a country which is a signatory to the international road transport convention, you may exchange it within 60 days to get a Portuguese driver's licence. It is possible to do this on the internet or at an IMT desk. To complete the process, you must present an identity proof and the completed Modelo 10 IMT form. You must also sign up on the IMT site using your taxpayer number and password.
Those who are exchanging their licenses from non-EU countries must pay additional fees. If you hold an US driving license, for example you will have to get an abstract from the state authorities as well as the doctor's approval that you are legally able to drive. The medical examination will be conducted by a doctor who will ask you a few general health questions and give you a summary neurological test.
The process can be time-consuming, but worth it. It's a good idea to obtain your license as soon as possible, so that it doesn't get lost or stolen.
When submitting your application for a license, ensure that all documents you submit are scanned and saved as separate files. If you can, give each file a distinct name to avoid confusion. IMT will send you a confirmation email once you have submitted your application. This will notify you of your status of your application. You'll also receive an appointment at the IMT office to take your practical driving exam.
Practical lessons
The driving lessons are offered at government-licensed centres and are taught by certified instructors. The duration of the learning is between 28 and 32 hours. Before you can sit for a test, you must complete both the theory and the practical classes. The exam is held in the same center that you took your theory test, so you must be familiar with the setting at this point. The exam comprises 30 questions, and you're allowed to make up to three mistakes. The questions are based off the syllabus you learned during your preparation classes. The tests aren't conducted on the internet, but there are several websites that allow you to download the syllabus.
You can also opt for an institution that is private to sit for the test however, you must be aware that these exams are dependent on the availability of dates and the qualifications of the experts. In addition, you'll be required to pay the fee of EUR30, and provide an official medical certificate that proves you're able to drive. In addition, renewals could require an eyesight test. You'll be issued your license via mail once you have passed the test.
On the IMT's website, you can also find the list of centres that are certified. It is essential to verify whether the centre has a trained instructor. Don't hesitate to ask for an alternative instructor if you are unhappy with the instructor's professionalism. The instructor will teach you how to drive the car and manage traffic. You'll also need to learn about the highway code as well as the road signs in Portugal. The cost of driving lessons in Portugal differs from center to center. It's best to visit the IMT website and compare prices to get the best price.
Theory test
The Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) offers theory and practical driving classes. The IMT can only issue a driver's license after passing both a theory and practical exam. A valid certificate of psychological assessment is also required. The theoretical test, also known as "exame de codigo," consists of 30 questions that need to be completed correctly within 35 minutes. It is offered 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 practical driving test called the "exame of velocidade" runs between 40 and 50 minutes. It is a test drive through a city road. You will be assessed by the instructor, the examiner, and a third person taking the test. If Comprar Carta de Condução da Categoria B1 pass the practical test, the IMT will issue a certificate to you via email.
You must have completed at least 28 theory classes, and 16 practical classes in order to be eligible for the practical and theoretical exam. You can also choose to have your theoretical exam before you complete the prescribed number of practical classes. You will need to pay for the practical classes separately.
If you don't have the funds to purchase a car You can lease one from a driving school. This allows you to learn to drive without having to think about the cost of purchasing a new vehicle. Make sure you research all the schools in your area before settling on the one that is most suitable for you. Verify the insurance policy of the car you plan to rent before making your reservation. The rental company may refuse to pay if you don't have the correct insurance.