Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're not a citizen of the EU and are new to Portugal it is crucial to exchange your driver's license issued by your country as soon as you can. If you don't do it get your license, it could be seized or canceled.
You'll require the following documents to complete your exchange ID and an completed IMT Modelo 13 application, and proof of residence. You may also need medical examination.
Cost
The cost of buying the IMT driving license varies based on whether you choose to take the theory test in person or online. In person, the test costs EUR15 and takes 30 minutes. The test consists of 30 multiple choice questions that are based on the syllabus you learned in your preparation classes. The test is available in Portuguese or English. The IMT website lists an extensive list of private centers that offer the test.
The IMT provides a service online for replacing lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website lets citizens make a request for replacement and receive an electronic certificate. Then, you can take the certificate to an officer station to receive an additional license within eight weeks. You can also make your request in person at an IMT counter. You'll require an ID document, such as a citizen card or taxpayer number, a residence permit or passport, and a completed Modelo 10 IMT form.
It is essential to change your foreign driver's license with a Portuguese one immediately after moving to Portugal. This will shield you from heavy fines if your foreign license is lost or stolen. Also, you should obtain your new Portuguese license before the validity of your old one expires.
You can apply in person at an IMT office or online. In-person meetings are the most popular for complicated applications like ones that involve the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings might require additional documents, for example, an official translation of your foreign license or the copy of your home country's ruling body.
Unlike systems in other countries unlike other countries, the US does not have a central driving license database. This can mean that it takes longer for IMT to verify the authenticity of 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 changing your US driver's license to a Portuguese license can be confusing and lengthy. You must 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 helpful suggestion is to download an application called SIGA on your phone, which lets you know the number of people being handled and how long you'll need to wait.
Requirements
You can swap a foreign driving license to obtain one that is a Portuguese license without the need to pass the Portuguese driving test. The process is lengthy. You may have to organize your documents, but you'll also have to attend preparation classes and take the theory test either at IMT or privately. You must have completed 32 hours of instruction in practical classes and 28 hours of theory to be eligible for a driving test. The lessons are held at government-approved centers. You can find the list of these centers on the IMT website. The duration of these classes is contingent on your availability and progress.
In order to transfer your driver's license from another country, you must present an abstract of your driving record from the state of your last residence in the United States. This document must be apostilled/stamped to be valid in your application to IMT. The embassy can authenticate this certificate for you. You can bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply online or at an IMT office close to you. Online is quicker and less stressful. But, you'll require an identification document such as a citizen card or taxpayer number in order to submit a request. If you are exchanging a foreign driver's license you will also need to bring your passport or resident permit.
The IMT offers a new service which permits drivers to request duplicate driving licenses online. This new service is convenient and could save you time and money. The IMT has launched an online portal which allows drivers to upload their documents, and can even upload an image.
Additionally, the institute gives the option of receiving an automatic notification when it's the appropriate moment to renew the driving licence. Additionally the IMT also informs you about the expiration date of your driving licence as well as how to renew it.
Time frame
Getting your driving license getting 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 peak 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.
The IMT's online portal allows you to check the status of your application and monitor your progress, but some applications require an in-person visit. In some cases you may be able to provide the required documents from your home country which makes the process easier.
It is essential to apply as quickly as you can in the event that you wish to exchange your EU driving license. This will prevent your license from being stolen or lost while you wait for it to be processed. speaking of is also crucial to obtain a Portuguese license prior to traveling abroad, as the IMT will not be able to replace your EU licence if it is stolen or lost in a different country.
Once you've completed your application, a medical examination is required. This is a straightforward test to determine if you're mentally fit to operate the vehicle. It doesn't contain bloodwork or a stress test and therefore should be easy to pass. The IMT website provides an official list of physicians who are approved for this test.
After passing your medical exam you can now begin preparation for the practical and theory tests. The theory test can be taken either at the IMT, or at a private exam centre. You must have taken your preparatory courses prior to the exam. The practical test can be taken either separately or as a part of the theory test. If you choose to take the theory test and the practical exam together, you will require a certificate of preparation class along with you. Otherwise, you'll have to take the test again at a later time.
Insurance
If you're planning to move to Portugal and want to move there, you must obtain your driver's license replaced as soon as you can. Failure to do this could result in fines and a delay in your residence permit. It is recommended that you exchange your residence permit within 90 days.
Before exchanging your old license to the Portuguese license, you'll need a Certificate Of Authentication. This document is available at the embassy of your country or consular services in Portugal.
You'll have to pass a medical test. Fortunately, this exam isn't as long as you might think. This exam includes bloodwork and physical examination to confirm that you are able to drive safely. A doctor from a medical network can conduct this exam costing around EUR25.