Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're not a European citizen and are new to Portugal, it's important to exchange your driver's license from another country as soon as you can. If you don't do it, your license could be confiscated or cancelled.
To complete your exchange, you'll need to submit the required documents: an ID, a completed IMT Modelo 13 form, and proofs of residence. You may require an exam for medical conditions.
Cost
The cost of buying the IMT driving license is based on whether you choose to take the test in person or online. The test costs $15 in person and takes 30 minutes. The test is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions that are based on the syllabus you learned in your preparation classes. The test is in Portuguese However, you can also opt to have it translated into English. The IMT website lists private centers that offer this exam.
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 a digital certificate. You can then present the certificate at a police station to receive an alternative license within 8 weeks. In addition, you may make your request at an IMT desk in person. You'll need an ID document such as an identity card, passport, taxpayer number, a citizen card or a residence permit. Additionally, you'll be required to fill out the Modelo 10 IMT Form.
After moving to Portugal, it's important that you exchange your foreign driving license to the Portuguese driver's license as quickly as possible. You will be protected from paying heavy fines in the event that your foreign driver's license is lost or stolen. Also, you should obtain your new Portuguese license before the validity of your old one expires.
You can submit your application online or in person at a IMT office. In-person visits are most common for complex applications such as those involving the exchanging of foreign licenses. In-person meetings can require additional documents such as an original foreign license translated or a copy from your home country.
The US does not have a central database of driving licenses, unlike other countries. It can take IMT longer to verify your driver's license. You can prevent this issue by asking IMT for an extension of the temporary paper driver's licence if it is about to expire.
The process of converting your US driver's license for a Portuguese one can be a bit confusing and lengthy. You must prepare all the necessary documents prior to visiting an IMT branch. Additionally, you should bring cash in case the office does not accept credit cards. A good tip is to download an app called SIGA on your mobile that will let you know the number of people being handled and how long you'll need to wait.
Comprar carta de condução categoria B may be exchanged to obtain a Portuguese driving license without taking the Portuguese driving test. Nevertheless, the process can be lengthy. In addition to arranging your documentation and preparing your documents, you might also have to attend a series of preparation classes and the theory test at IMT or a private exam center. You must have completed 32 hours of practical lessons and 28 hours of theory in order to be eligible for a driving test. The lessons are conducted in approved government-approved centers. These centers are listed on the website of the IMT. The length of the lessons is contingent on your availability and your improvement.
To transfer your foreign license, you will need to present an abstract of driving records from the state where you most recently resided in the United States. This document needs to be apostilled/stamped in order to be valid in your application with IMT. The embassy can authenticate this certificate for you. You can also bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply online or in an IMT office close to you. The online application process is simpler and less stressful. However, you will require a proof of identity like your citizen card or taxpayer number 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 driver's license online. This new option can save time and money, and is much more efficient than visiting an IMT office in person. The IMT has developed a new portal that allows drivers to upload their documents, and even upload photos.
The institute also offers the possibility of receiving an automatic notification when the time is right to renew your driving license. The IMT will also inform you when your driving licence expires and the best way to renew it.
Time frame
Obtaining your driving license in Portugal is a long process. The IMT can take as long as 30 days to process your request and can take even longer if you are applying during peak periods. You are able to drive while waiting with your driving license issued by a foreign country or temporary permit.
The IMT's online portal allows you to check on the status of your application as well as track your progress, however some applications require an in-person visit. In certain cases, you can submit the necessary documents from your country of origin. This makes the process much faster.

If you're looking to exchange your EU driver's license, you must complete the process as soon as you can. This will stop your license from being stolen or lost while you're waiting for it to be processed. It's also crucial to obtain an Portuguese license prior to traveling abroad. The IMT will not be able replace your EU license if it's stolen or lost in a different nation.
After you've completed your application, a medical test will be required. This is a simple test to ensure that you're mentally fit to operate the vehicle. The test doesn't include stress tests or bloodwork therefore it's easy to pass. Comprar Carta de Condução da Categoria B1 contains an official list of physicians who are approved for this test.
After passing your medical exam you can now begin studying for the practical and theory exams. The theory test can be taken at the IMT, or a private exam center. You must have taken your preparatory classes first. The practical test can be taken separately or as a part of the theory exam. If you choose to take the test in conjunction with the theory test be sure that you have your preparation class certificate with you at the time of the test. Otherwise, you'll have to take the test again at a later time.
Insurance
If you're planning on moving to Portugal and want to move there, you must get your driver's license exchanged in the earliest time possible. Failing to do so could result in fines or delays in getting your residence permit. It's also best to make the change within 90 days of receiving your residency permit.
If you're an EU resident or not, you'll need to get a Certificate of Authentication for your license prior to exchanging it for an Portuguese one. This document can be obtained at the Embassy of your country, or through consular services in Portugal.
You'll also have to pass a medical examination. Fortunately, this exam isn't as long as you might think. It consists of bloodwork and a check-up to make sure that you are able to drive safely. This exam costs EUR25 and is conducted by a doctor from a medical group.