Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're a non-EU citizen and are new to Portugal it's crucial to exchange your driver's license from another country as soon as you can. If you don't do it, your license could be seized or cancelled.
You'll need the following documents to complete your exchange: ID and the completed IMT Modelo 13 application, and proof of residency. You may be required to undergo an examination for medical reasons.
Cost
The cost of an IMT driving licence varies based on if you take the test online or in person. In person, the test costs EUR15 and lasts 30 minutes. The test is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions that cover the syllabus you learned in preparation classes. The test is offered in Portuguese or English. The IMT website lists private centers that offer this test.
The IMT offers a service online to replace lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website lets users register their request for an electronic certificate. Then, you can take the certificate to the police station to obtain an additional license within eight weeks. In addition, you can submit your request at an IMT desk in person. You will need a valid ID document, such as passport, a taxpayer number, a citizenship card or a residence permit. In addition, you'll be required to fill out the Modelo 10 IMT Form.
After moving to Portugal it is essential that you exchange your foreign driving license to the Portuguese driver's licence as soon as possible. You'll be protected from paying heavy fines in the event that your foreign driver's license is lost or stolen. In addition, you must obtain your new Portuguese license before the validity of your previous one expires.

You can submit your application online or in person at a IMT office. However the in-person visit is more common for complex applications which include the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings can require additional documents such as an original foreign license translated or a copy of the license from your home country.
In contrast to other countries, the US doesn't have a central database for driving licenses. It can take IMT longer to verify your driver's licence. Fortunately you can avoid this by asking IMT to extend your temporary paper license if it's nearing to expire.
The process of changing your US driver's license to one in Portuguese one can be confusing and lengthy. You must make sure you have all the required documents prior to visiting an IMT branch. Additionally, you should bring cash in case the office does not accept credit cards. Download the SIGA app on your phone to determine how many people are being handled at any given time.
Requirements
A driver's license from another country can be exchanged to obtain an Portuguese driving license without having to pass the Portuguese driving test. The process can still be long. It is possible that you will need to organize your documents, but you will also need to attend preparation classes and then take the theory test either at IMT or privately. To pass the driving test you must have completed 28 hours of theory lessons and 32 practical ones. The lessons are conducted in approved government-approved centers. These centers are listed on the website of the IMT. The duration of the lessons is contingent on your availability and improvement.
To exchange your foreign license you must submit an abstract of driving records from the state where you most recently resided in the United States. The document must be apostilled or stamped to be valid in your application at IMT. The embassy will then authenticate the certificate. You can also bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply online or in an IMT office near you. The online process is more convenient and less stressful. But, you'll require an identification document like your citizen card or taxpayer number to submit a request. If you are transferring a foreign driver's license it is also necessary to bring your passport or resident permit.
The IMT offers an innovative service that permits drivers to request duplicate driving licenses online. This new service can save time and money, and it is more convenient than visiting an IMT office in person. The IMT created a portal that allows drivers to upload their documents and even provide pictures.
Additionally, the institute gives the possibility to have an automatic notification when it's the right time to renew your driving licence. The IMT will also inform you when your driving permit expires and how to renew it.
Time frame
The process of getting your driver's license in Portugal can be lengthy. It can take up to 30 days for the IMT to process your application and even longer during high-demand times. While mouse click the next document wait you can drive using your foreign license or a temporary permit.
The online portal of IMT allows you to view the status of your application as well as track your progress, but certain applications require an in person visit. In certain cases, you can even provide the required documents from your home country, making the process much faster.
It's crucial to apply as soon as possible in the event that you wish to exchange your EU driving license. This will help prevent your license being lost or stolen while you wait for it to be processed. It is also crucial to obtain a Portuguese license before traveling abroad, since the IMT will not be able to replace your EU licence if it is lost or stolen in another country.
After you've submitted your application, a medical exam will be required. It's a quick test to determine whether you're mentally fit enough to drive a car. This test does not include stress tests or bloodwork therefore it's easy to pass. The IMT website contains an official list of physicians who are approved for this test.
Once you have passed your medical exam, you can start preparing for both the practical and theory examinations. The theory exam can be taken at the IMT or an examination center privately owned however, you must have completed your preparatory classes before taking it. The practical exam can be taken as a stand-alone test or in conjunction with the theory test. If you decide to take the practical test in conjunction with the theory test be sure that you have your preparation class certificate at the time of the test. If not, you'll need to take the test again at a later time.
Insurance
If you plan to move to Portugal in the near future, it is recommended to exchange your driver's license as soon as you are able to. Failure to do so can result in fines and a delay in the issuance of your residence permit. It is recommended to change your residence permit within 90 days.
No matter if you're an EU resident or not, you need to obtain a Certificate of Authentication for your previous license prior to changing it to an Portuguese one. This document is available at the embassy of your country or consular services in Portugal.
You'll need to pass a medical examination. This test isn't as difficult as you may think. It consists of bloodwork and a check-up to ensure you can safely drive. A medical doctor from a network can conduct this exam costing around EUR25.