Buy the IMT Driving License

If you're a non-EU citizen and are new to Portugal it is crucial to exchange your driver's license from another country as soon as possible. If you don't do it, your license may be confiscated or canceled.

To complete your exchange, you'll need to provide the following documents: an ID, an completed IMT Modelo 13 form, and proof of residence. You may be required to undergo an examination for medical reasons.

Cost

The cost for purchasing the IMT driving license varies depending on whether you decide to take the test in person or online. In person, the test costs 15 euros and lasts for 30 minutes. It is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions that test the syllabus you've learned in preparation classes. The test is offered in Portuguese or English. The IMT website lists private centers that provide this exam.

The IMT provides a service online to replace lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website allows citizens register their request to receive an electronic certificate. You can then take the certificate to a police station in order to obtain an additional license within eight weeks. You can also submit your request in person at an IMT counter. You will require an ID document like a citizen card or taxpayer number, residence permit or passport and a completed Modelo 10 IMT form.

After you have moved to Portugal it is essential that you exchange your foreign driving license for the Portuguese driver's licence as soon as you are able. This will help you avoid heavy fines if your foreign license gets lost or stolen. In addition, you must obtain your new Portuguese license before the validity of your old one runs out.

You can submit your application in person at an IMT office or on the internet. However the in-person visit is more frequent for applications that are complex which include the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings may require additional documents, like a notarized translation of your foreign license or the copy of your home country's ruling body.

As opposed to other countries in the world, the US has no central database of driving licenses. This could mean it will take longer for IMT to verify the authenticity of your driver's permit. You can avoid this problem by asking IMT for an extension of your temporary driver's license when it is due to expire.

The process of changing your US driver's license to one with a Portuguese license is a complicated and long. You should prepare all the required documentation before visiting an IMT office and you must bring cash in the event that the office doesn't accept credit cards. Download the SIGA app on your phone to see how many people will be dealt with at any given time.

Requirements