Buy the IMT Driving License Online
The most effective thing to do should you be planning to change your driving license in Portugal is to begin the process as soon when you receive your residency card. This will help you save time and effort.
There are a few requirements you must satisfy, like attending classes and passing taking a medical examination. But don't fret you can pass the medical test - it's not as invasive as it may seem.
Requirements
If you are planning to move to Portugal it is essential that you exchange your foreign driving licence to one that is a Portuguese driving license whenever you can. You will be able to get a valid driving license in the event that your car is lost or stolen. You can exchange your license at the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT) offices. The process is quite simple, but you will have to bring a variety of documents with you. This includes a medical test and a translated version of your foreign driving licence. You can employ an lingoking translator to assist you with this task.
You'll also have to pass a theory exam and take a practical driving course. The lessons are offered at driving schools accredited by the government. You can find a list of these centers on the IMT website. The test for theory costs 30 euros, while the practical driving test will cost you an additional 40 euros. You may need to take a tests specifically designed for cars like buses or other large passenger vehicles.
The IMT website has information on how to exchange your foreign driving licence in Portugal. There are different rules for each country, therefore it's important to verify the IMT's website before you move. Expats from the United States, for example, must submit a certification of equivalence from their home state.
The IMT will require your passport or identification card before giving you the right to exchange your driving license. It will also require a certified copy of your driving record. You can get an official copy of your driving record from your home state or from a notary public. The notary will charge you a fee for his service.
Fees
As of today, the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) has launched a new online service that enables citizens to obtain a driver's license certificate. To access the service, drivers need to have their digital mobile key or citizen card, and access IMT's "My Driving License" portal. After registration, the certificate can be issued in Portuguese or English. It is valid for six month. Its authenticity can be verified by scanning the QR code or entering the verification code.
Wait for IMT to notify you that you may go to their desk to complete your application and submit biometric data. You'll also have to pay a fee for your exam that IMT will inform you of at a later date.
Be aware that the process may take a while, especially because the US does not have an automated system to exchange documents like driver's licences with Portugal. After you have submitted your documents, it may take some time for IMT to examine it and return it back to you.
Be sure that the documents you send to IMT are clearly labelled with your name and address. It is also recommended to scan all documents before sending so that you can locate them easily if needed. If Comprar carta de condução da categoria A are applying for a license on behalf of several family members, label each document in a different way to avoid confusion. This will help save time and avoid delays.
Timeframe
If you arrive in Portugal with an official driving license issued by a country which is a signatory of the international road transport convention, you are able to exchange it within 60 days for an official Portuguese driver's license. You can exchange your license online or at an IMT desk. To complete the process, you must present a proof of identity and the completed Modelo 10 IMT form. You also need to sign up on the IMT site with your taxpayer number and password.
The costs for those who switch their licenses will be higher. For instance, if you are driving with a US license, you will need to get an abstract from the state authorities and a doctor's certificate which states that you are fit enough to drive. A doctor will conduct the medical examination. He will ask you general health questions and then conduct a brief neurologic test.
The entire process can be lengthy, but it's worth it in the end. It's recommended to obtain your license as soon as possible before it is lost or stolen.
If you're applying for a license, make sure to scan and save each document in a separate manner. If possible, give each file a different name to avoid confusion. After you've submitted your application, you will receive an email confirmation from IMT to inform you of the status of your request. You'll also be notified of an appointment at the IMT office to take your practical driving exam.
Practical lessons
The driving lessons are offered in government-licensed centers and are taught by certified instructors. The duration of the learning is between 28 and 32 hrs. You will need to take both theory classes as well as practical ones and pass both before you can book your test. The exam is held at the same location in which you took the theory test, so you must be familiar with the surroundings by this point. The exam is 30 questions long, and you are allowed to make up to three mistakes. The questions are in line with the syllabus you studied in your preparation classes. The tests are not administered on the internet, but you can download the syllabus and practice the questions on a variety of sites.
You may also select an institution that is private to take the exam however, you must be aware that they are dependent on the availability of dates and professionals. You'll also need to pay EUR30 and submit a medical certification stating your ability to drive. Renewals can also require an eye test. You'll receive your license in the mail once you have passed the test.
On the website of the IMT, you can also view the list of centres that are certified. It is crucial to determine whether the center has a certified instructor. Don't hesitate to ask for an alternative instructor if you're not satisfied with the instructor's quality. The instructor will help you pass the practical driving exam by guiding you in how to maneuver the car and navigate traffic. You'll also have to learn about the highway code and the road signs in Portugal. The cost of driving lessons in Portugal varies from center to center. Check prices on the IMT website to find the best deal.
Theory test
The Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) offers practical and theory-based driving classes. It is possible to get an driver's license through the IMT only after passing a theory and practical test. A proof of a positive psychological assessment is also required. The theoretical test, or "exame of codigo", consists 30 questions which you must answer correctly in 35 minutes. The theoretical exam is available through IMT or through private testing centers. If you are an international student you can ask the IMT to translate your questions into English.
The test for driving practice also known as "exame de velocidade" runs between 40 and 50 minutes. The test is driving through an urban area. You will be rated by the examiner and by the instructor. If you pass the test, the IMT will issue you a certificate via mail.
To pass the practical and theoretical tests you must take at least 28 of your theoretical classes and 16 practical classes. You may also opt to take your theory exam before you have completed the required number of practical classes. You will have to pay separately for the practical classes.
If you don't have enough money to purchase a vehicle, you can rent one through a driving school. This allows you to test your driving skills without worrying about the expense of a new vehicle. Make sure you research all the schools in your area and select the best one. If you're thinking of renting a car, be sure to verify the insurance policy prior to making a reservation. If you don't possess the proper insurance, your rental company could refuse to honor your claim.