Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're a non-EU national and new to Portugal it is recommended that you exchange your foreign driving license as soon as is possible. If you don't, your license could be confiscated or revoked.
To complete your exchange you'll need to submit the following documents: a photo ID as well as the completed IMT Modelo 13 form, and proof of residency. You may need to have an exam for medical conditions.
Cost
The cost for purchasing the IMT driving license varies based on whether you choose to take the test in person or online. The test is EUR15 in person and lasts 30 minutes. The test is comprised of 30 multiple choice questions that are based on the syllabus you were taught in preparation classes. The test is in Portuguese however, you can also opt to translate it into English. The IMT website has a list of private centers that offer the test.
The IMT offers a service online to replace lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website allows users to submit their request and receive a digital certificate. You can then show the certificate at a police station and 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 like a passport, a taxpayer number, a citizens 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 crucial to exchange your current foreign driving license for a Portuguese driver's licence as soon as you are able. 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 ends.
You can submit your request online or in person at a IMT office. However in-person visits are more common for complex applications which include the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings may require additional documents, such as the translation of a foreign license or a copy from your home country.
The US does not have a central database of driving licenses, unlike other countries. This could mean it may take longer for IMT to verify the authenticity of your driver's licence. Fortunately you can circumvent 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 one in Portuguese one can be confusing and time-consuming. You should prepare all the necessary documents prior to going to an IMT branch. Also, you should bring cash if the branch does not accept credit cards. Download the SIGA app on your phone to see how many persons are being dealt with at any given time.
Requirements
A foreign driver's license may be exchanged for the Portuguese driving license, without taking the Portuguese driving test. Nevertheless, the process can be a long one. You may need to arrange your documents, but you will be required to attend preparatory classes and then take the theory test at IMT or privately. To be eligible for the driving test you must have completed 28 hours of theory classes and 32 practical ones. These lessons are conducted at government-approved centers. These centers are listed on the website of the IMT. The length of these lessons is dependent on your availability and progress.
To exchange your foreign driver's license, you will need to provide an abstract of your 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 to IMT. The embassy will authenticate this certificate for you. You can bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply for a driving license on the internet or in person at the IMT office in your city. Online applications are faster and less stressful. You'll need an identification document, such as your taxpayer number or citizen card, to make an application. If you're exchanging an international license, you'll also require your passport or resident permit.
The IMT has a new program that lets drivers request a duplicate driving license online. This new option can save time and money, and is a lot more efficient than visiting an IMT office in person. The IMT has developed an online portal that allows drivers to upload their documents and can even provide a photo.
The institute also provides the possibility of receiving an automatic notification when the time is appropriate to renew your driving license. Additionally it also informs you of 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 can be a lengthy process. It could take up to 30 days for the IMT to process your application and even longer during the peak hours. While waiting you can drive using your foreign license or a temporary permit.
The IMT's online portal lets you to check on the status of your application and track your progress. However, certain applications require an in-person visit. In Comprar Carta de Condução da Categoria B1 can submit the required documents from your country of origin which makes the process faster.
If you're applying to exchange your EU driver's license, it's important to complete the process as soon as you can. This will help prevent your license from being stolen or lost while you wait for it to be processed. It's also important to obtain a Portuguese license prior to travelling abroad, since the IMT will not be able to replace your EU licence if it is stolen or lost in a different country.
Once you've submitted your application, you'll need to pass a medical exam. This is a simple exam to determine if you are mentally fit to drive a vehicle. It doesn't require tests for stress or bloodwork and therefore should be simple to pass. The IMT website has the list of doctors who have been approved to administer this exam.
After you have passed your medical exam, you can start preparation for both the theory and practical examinations. The theory test can be taken at the IMT or an examination center privately owned, but you must have completed the preparatory classes before taking it. The practical test can be taken separately or as a part of the theory test. If you decide to take the test with the theory exam be sure that you have your certification from the preparation class with you at the time of the test. Otherwise, you'll be required to take the exam again at a later time.
Insurance

If you plan to relocate to Portugal in the near future, you must exchange your driver's license as soon as you can. Failure to do so can result in fines and a delay in your residence permit. It is also recommended to complete the exchange within 90 days of receiving your residency permit.
No matter if you're an EU resident or not, you must obtain a Certificate of Authentication for your old license before changing it to one that is a Portuguese one. This document can be obtained from the embassy in your country or consular service in Portugal.
You'll need to pass a medical examination. This test isn't as difficult as you may think. It involves blood tests and a check-up to ensure you can safely drive. Comprar Carta de Condução da Categoria B1 from a medical network can conduct this exam costing around EUR25.