Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're a non-EU citizen and are new to Portugal it's crucial to transfer your driver's license issued by your country as soon as possible. If you don't, your license could be seized or revoked.
To complete your exchange you'll need to provide the following documents: a photo ID as well as the completed IMT Modelo 13 form, and proof of residence. You may be required to undergo a medical examination.
Cost
The cost of purchasing the IMT driving license varies based on whether you choose to take the test in person or online. In person, the test costs EUR15 and takes 30 minutes. It's comprised of 30 multiple choice questions and covers the syllabus that you've learned in your preparation classes. The test is available in Portuguese or English. The IMT website has the list of private centers that offer the exam.
The IMT offers a service online for replacing lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website allows users to make a request for replacement and receive a digital certificate. You can then take the certificate to an officer station to obtain an updated license within eight weeks. In addition, you may submit your request at an IMT desk in person. You'll need a valid ID document, such as a passport, a taxpayer number, a citizen card or a residence permit. In addition, you'll be required to fill out the Modelo 10 IMT Form.
It's important to exchange your foreign driver's license for one in Portugal. Portuguese one as soon as possible after you move to Portugal. You will be protected from costly penalties in the event that your driver's license from abroad is lost or stolen. In addition, you must obtain your new Portuguese license before the validity of your old one ends.
You can submit your application online or in person at an IMT office. In-person meetings are the most popular for more complex applications, such as those involving the exchanging of foreign licenses. In-person meetings may require additional documents, such as a notarized translation of your foreign license or a copy of your home country's governing body.
The US does not have a central database for driving licenses unlike other countries. It can take IMT longer to verify your driver's license. You can avoid this problem by asking IMT for an extension of your temporary driver's license when it is due to expire.
The process of converting your US driver's license for a Portuguese one can be confusing and time-consuming. You should be prepared with all the necessary documentation before going to an IMT branch. Also, it is recommended to bring cash if the branch does not accept credit cards. A good suggestion is to download an app called SIGA on your mobile, which lets you know how many people are being handled and how long you'll have to wait.
Requirements
You can swap a foreign driving license for the Portuguese license without having to take the Portuguese driving test. However, the process can be a long one. In addition to arranging your documentation, you may also need to take classes for preparation and the theory test at IMT or a private exam center. You must have completed 32 hours of instruction in practical classes and 28 hours of theory to be able to pass your driving test. These lessons are conducted in government-approved centres. These centers are listed on the website of the IMT. The duration of these classes is dependent on your availability and progress.
To exchange your foreign license, you will need to submit an abstract of driving records from the state where you last resided in the United States. This document must be apostilled/stamped to be valid when included in your application at IMT. The embassy will authenticate the certificate. You can bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply online or in an IMT office near you. The online application process is simpler and less stressful. You will need to provide an identification document, like your taxpayer number or a citizen card, in order to make a request. If you're exchanging a foreign license, you'll also require your passport or resident permit.
The IMT has a new program that lets drivers request a duplicate driver's license online. This new service is convenient and could save you time and money. The IMT created a portal which allows drivers to upload their documents and even provide an image.
Additionally, the institute gives the possibility to have an automatic announcement when it's time to moment to renew the driving licence. In addition, the IMT also informs you about the expiration date of your driving license and how to renew it.
Time frame
Obtaining your driving license in Portugal is a long process. It can take up to 30 days for the IMT to complete your application, and even longer during high-demand times. You are able to drive while waiting for the IMT to process your application using your driving license issued by a foreign country or temporary permit.
You can check the status of an application online and monitor its progress. However, some applications require an individual visit. In certain instances you can provide the required documents from your country of origin, making the process much quicker.
It is essential to apply as soon as possible when you're looking to exchange your EU driving license. This will protect your license from being lost or stolen while you're waiting for it to be processed. It's also essential to get an Portuguese license prior to travelling abroad. The IMT will not be able replace your EU license if it is stolen or lost in another country.
After you have submitted your application, a medical examination will be required. It's a quick test to determine if you are mentally fit to drive a vehicle. This test doesn't contain stress tests or bloodwork, so it should be simple to pass. The IMT website provides an approved list of doctors for this test.
Once you have passed your medical exam then you can begin preparing for both the practical and theory examinations. The theory test can be taken at the IMT, or at a private exam center. You must have attended your preparatory courses prior to the exam. The practical test can be taken as a stand-alone test or in conjunction with the theory test. If you choose to take the theory test and the practical test together, you will need your certificate of preparation with you. You'll need to retake the test if you do not.
Comprar a carta de condução do IMT
If you plan to move to Portugal in the near future, it is recommended to change your driver's license as soon as you can. Failure to do this could result in a fine or delay in obtaining your residence permit. It is also recommended to complete the exchange within 90 days of receiving your residency permit.
If you're an EU resident or not, you must obtain a Certificate of Authentication for your previous license prior to exchanging it for one that is a Portuguese one. This document can be obtained from your country's embassy or consular services in Portugal.
You'll also have to pass a medical exam. This exam is not as difficult as you may think. It's a combination of bloodwork and a check-up to make sure you're able to drive safely. A physician from a medical network can conduct this test costing around EUR25.