Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're not a European citizen and are new to Portugal it's crucial to change your driver's license issued by your country as soon as you can. If you don't do it then, your license could be seized or canceled.
Comprar a carta de condução do IMT 'll need the following documents to complete your exchange: ID, a completed IMT Modelo 13 application, and proof of residence. You may also require a medical exam.
Cost
The cost of an IMT driving licence varies depending on if you take the theory test online or in person. The test costs EUR15 in person and lasts 30 minutes. It is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions that cover the syllabus that you've learned in your preparation classes. The test is in Portuguese however, you can also choose to translate it into English. The IMT website has the list of private centers that offer the exam.
The IMT also offers an online service for replacement of stolen or lost drivers' licenses. The website lets citizens submit their request for an electronic certificate. Then, you can present the certificate at a police station to receive an additional license within 8 weeks. Additionally, you can submit your request to an IMT desk in person. You'll need an ID document like a passport, a taxpayer number, a citizenship card or a residence permit. Also, you will have to fill out the Modelo 10 IMT Form.
It is essential to exchange your foreign driver's license to one in Portugal. Portuguese one immediately after moving to Portugal. This will shield you from massive fines if your foreign license gets lost or stolen. In addition, you must obtain your new Portuguese license before the validity of your previous one runs out.
You can submit your request online or in person at a IMT office. In-person visits are the most common for complicated applications like those involving the exchanging of foreign licenses. In-person meetings might require additional documents, for example, an official translation of your foreign license or the copy of your country's the governing body.
The US has no central database of driving licenses, unlike other countries. It can take IMT longer to verify your driver's licence. Fortunately, you can get around this by asking IMT to extend your temporary paper license when it's due to expire.
The process of exchanging your US driver's license to a Portuguese one can be confusing and lengthy. It is important to be prepared with all the necessary documentation before visiting an IMT branch. Also, it is recommended to bring cash if the branch does not accept credit cards. Download the SIGA app on your phone to determine how many people will be dealt with at any given time.
Requirements
A foreign driver's license may be exchanged to obtain an Portuguese driving license without taking the Portuguese driving test. However, the process can be a long one. It is possible that you will need to organize your documents, but you will be required to attend preparatory classes and take the theory test at IMT or privately. You must have completed 32 hours of practical lessons and 28 hours of theory in order to be eligible for your driving test. The lessons are held at government-approved centers. You can find the locations on the IMT website. The duration of the classes depends on your availability and progress.
In order to exchange your foreign driver's licence, you must present an abstract of your driving record from the state in which you last residence in the United States. The document must be stamped or apostilled to be valid when included in your application to IMT. The embassy will then authenticate the certificate. You can also bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply for a driver's license certificate on the internet or in person at the IMT office in your city. Online is quicker and less stressful. You'll need to provide an identification document, like your taxpayer number or citizen card, in order to submit a request. If you're exchanging an international driver's license it is also necessary to bring your passport or resident permit.
The IMT offers a new service that lets drivers request a duplicate license online. This new option can save time and money, and is more convenient than visiting an IMT office in person. The IMT has created a portal that lets drivers upload their documents and even provide an image.
The institute also provides the possibility of receiving an automatic notification when the time is appropriate to renew your driving licence. Besides that the IMT also informs you about the expiration date of your driving licence as well as how to renew it.
Time frame
Obtaining your driving license getting your driving license in Portugal is a long process. The IMT can take as long as 30 days to process your application and can take even longer if you apply during peak periods. You can drive while waiting for the IMT to process your application using your driving license from another country or temporary permit.
You can check the status of your application online and follow its progress. However, some applications require the applicant to visit the site personally. In certain cases, you can submit the required documents directly from your home country. This can make the process much quicker.
It's crucial to apply as quickly as you can if you want 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 important to obtain a Portuguese license prior to traveling abroad, since the IMT cannot replace your EU license if it's lost or stolen in another country.
After you have completed your application, a medical test is required. This is a straightforward test to determine whether you're mentally fit to drive a car. This test doesn't contain stress tests or bloodwork, so it should be simple to pass. The IMT website has a list of doctors who are authorized to administer this test.
Once you have passed your medical test, you can start preparation for both the practical and theory examinations. The theory test can be taken either at the IMT, or a private exam center. You must have attended your preparatory courses prior to the exam. The practical test can be taken separately or in conjunction with 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 present at the time of the test. Otherwise, you'll have to take the exam again at a later date.
Insurance
If you plan to move to Portugal in the near future, you must exchange your driver's license immediately. In the event of delay, it could result in fines as well as a delay of your residence permit. It is best to exchange your residence permit within 90 days.
Before you can exchange your old license for one that is a Portuguese license, you will require the Certificate of Authenticity. This document is available at the Embassy of your country, or from consular services in Portugal.
You'll have to pass a medical examination. This test isn't as difficult as you may think. This test involves blood tests and a physical to ensure that you're able drive safely. A doctor from a medical network can conduct this test, which costs around EUR25.