Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're a US citizen moving to Portugal and need to exchange your American driver's license for one that is a Portuguese one. This can be done by submitting an IMT Modelo 13 application and residence confirmation to IMT.
The most difficult aspect of IMT is organizing all the necessary documents, particularly a psychological assessment certification. The document has to be authenticated by the consular service, and must be stamped with an Apostille.
Requirements
Before you can buy an IMT driving licence You will need to satisfy certain requirements. You must pass both the theory and practical exams and attend a series of preparation classes. You can enroll in these classes in public institutions or private driving schools, but the price can be high. There may also be a wait before you can schedule an appointment.
You must also have a medical license. This is a document called the 922/INCM. It is able to be obtained at your nearest hospital for a fee of 30 euros. The doctor will also assess your mental and eye health. Once you have these documents, you are ready to visit the IMT. It takes approximately a month to obtain your new driving license.
You may require an ID card and proof of residency depending the location you reside in. Additionally, you'll need to carry an official medical certificate and duplicate ID card. You'll also have to pay a driving license commission, which is different between countries.
IMT will need to verify your documents and may demand that you take a driving test. The process typically takes only a few minutes but it could take longer if you have multiple documents. You can find out more about the required documents by visiting the IMT website.
IMT requires certified driving records from the previous state you resided in for US citizens. The certificate must include all the information required by IMT, including the categories derived from an examination and those achieved by equivalents. It must be issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in the United States or another authorized agency in the country in which you resided.
The IMT website includes an online portal that permits drivers to check the validity of their driving license and renew it in advance. The site can also be used to check whether the driver is eligible for a revalidation. This will help you avoid being caught driving with an expired licence and protect yourself from fines. You can use the IMT site to get temporary driving license that allows you to drive in Portugal until your new licence arrives.
Fees

The fees for getting an IMT license can vary. The cost is determined by the type of vehicle, driving course and the test. Candidates are likely to pay a fee for the theory test and a higher fee for the practical driving test. There may also be additional charges like registration or administration fees. Taxes can also be charged.
It is crucial to change your driving license from abroad immediately upon arrival in Portugal. In the event of a delay, it could result in heavy penalties. Begin the process as soon you get your residency permit.
Getting your foreign license exchanged is a long and complex procedure. You'll need to submit a series of documents, including the Certificate of Authentication for your driving license. The document must be verified by a notary and affixed with an apostille seal. Once you have this, you can send it along with other documents to IMT.
You can apply online at the IMT website. You will receive an email from IMT after you have submitted your application. It will inform you where to go to get your exchange. Once you arrive at the IMT they will process your application for a driver's licence and will collect your biometric data.
It is crucial to take the theory and practical tests on separate days. Typically, you will take the theory test first, and then the practical driving test. You will have to attend an instruction class prior to taking the theory exam. For the practical test, you can select the instructor of your choice.
If you need help with translating your foreign driving license to Portuguese you can employ a translator to assist you. They can also sign and witness your identity documents for an additional cost. Alternately, you can apply for an International Driving Permit if your driver's license is written in English.
You can also request a translation of your passport or other supporting documents via the IMT Website. This service is available at a minimal cost and documents are generally delivered to your home in eight to ten days.
Timeframe
The process of getting the driving license in Portugal is lengthy, so it is best to begin the process early. Make sure that all your documents are in order prior to beginning the process. Documents not in Portuguese need to be translated and authenticated. You will also require an original passport and an IMT certificate. The processing time may be longer than you expect depending on the circumstances.
You'll need to pay an application fee of EUR15. This fee is not refundable. You will also need to pay for any tests required. The cost for the driving test in practice is EUR30. A written test costs EUR10. The IMT charges a fee to submit the request.
If you are a resident of the EU, you can use an online platform to verify the validity of your driving licence and find out when it is time to renew it. The site also has an FAQ section, which answers common questions. You can also contact the IMT directly to inquire about the procedure.
Tip Note: Label each file separately when you submit all required documents. This will prevent IMT from assuming that you've submitted duplicates of the same documents. Try to make your documents as concise and clear as possible. This will save time and money.
You must first get a psychotechnical certification from the IMT before applying for a new driving license. The doctor will ask general health questions and perform an overview of the neurologic exam. The certificate will then be sent to the customer's e-mail address by the IMT. After it has been received, the Client is able to add the code 997 (TVDE) to their driving license.
Documents needed
If you're not an EU citizen You must take all necessary steps to obtain your Portuguese driving license as soon as possible. If you fail to comply, you could be fined a lot. You will find all the information you require at IMT's web portal. The process is simple however it may take some time to complete. For instance, you need to attend classes and pass a written test. The test takes about 40 minutes, and includes driving in urban areas with a few parking and traffic tests. In addition, you must take a medical exam to be issued the driver's license. The good thing is that the test can be taken in a private examination center.
To exchange Comprar carta de condução da categoria C driving license to a Portuguese license, you'll require a couple of documents. Some documents are required by everyone however, others are only required if you own a certain kind of vehicle or wish to keep a particular category. This includes a certified copy of your driving record, apostilled passport or travel document, as well as an apostilled proof from your home country that proves you are a resident of the country legally.
Furthermore, you must have a residence permit and your driving license translated by professional translators. This is a vital step to ensure your documents are authenticated correctly. It is also recommended to keep the originals of these documents for references. The translation of your driving licence can be accomplished with an apostilled stamp or apostille and you'll require it to be endorsed by the consulate in the US prior to sending it to IMT.
To start the process of changing your American driver's licence to a Portuguese one, you need to bring the documents above to the IMT. The IMT also has an online portalcalled "A minha carte of conducir" which you can access to verify the status of your application.
You'll need a B-category licence to drive a standard car like those you might take on a road trip around Portugal. Drivers aged 21-24 are permitted to drive heavier vehicles such as trailers and agricultural tractors.