The Little-Known Benefits Buy The IMT Driving License
Buy the IMT Driving License
If you're not a citizen of the EU and are new to Portugal it's crucial to exchange your driver's license issued by your country as soon as possible. If you don't, your license may be confiscated or canceled.
You'll need the following documents to complete your exchange ID, an completed IMT Modelo 13 application, and proof of residency. You may need to have an exam for medical conditions.
Cost
Comprar carta de condução da categoria A for purchasing the IMT driving license varies based on whether you want to take the test in person or online. In person, the test is EUR15 and takes 30 minutes. It's 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 provides an extensive list of private centers offering the test.
The IMT provides a service online to replace lost or stolen driver's licenses. The website allows citizens register their request for digital certificates. You can then show the certificate at a police station to receive an alternative license within 8 weeks. Additionally, you can submit your request to an IMT desk in person. You will need a valid ID document like an identity card, passport, taxpayer number, a citizens card or a residence permit. Also, you will 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 one that is a Portuguese driver's license as soon as you are able. This will protect you from huge fines if the foreign license gets lost or stolen. It is also recommended to get a new Portuguese driving license before your old one expires.
You can apply in person at an IMT office or on the internet. However the in-person visit is more common for applications with a lot of complexity which include the exchange of foreign licenses. In-person meetings may require additional documents, such as an original foreign license translated or a copy of the license from your home country.
The US does not have a central database for driving licenses unlike other countries. This could mean it takes longer for IMT to verify the authenticity of your driver's license. Fortunately, you can get around this by asking IMT to extend your temporary paper license if it's nearing to expire.
The process of converting your US driver's license for one that is a Portuguese one can be confusing and lengthy. You should prepare all the required documentation before visiting an IMT office and you must bring cash in case the office doesn't accept credit cards. A helpful suggestion is to download an application called SIGA on your smartphone, which lets you know how many people are being handled and how long you'll have to wait.
Requirements
You can exchange a foreign driving licence to obtain one that is a Portuguese license without the need to pass the Portuguese driving test. However, the process could be lengthy. You may need to arrange your documents, but you'll also need to attend preparation classes and then take the theory test at IMT or privately. You must have completed 32 hours of practical lessons and 28 hours of theory in order to be eligible for a driving test. These lessons are taught in approved government-approved centers. These centers are listed on the website of the IMT. The duration of the lessons is dependent on your availability and your improvement.
In order to exchange your foreign driver's licence, you must present an abstract of your driving record from the state where you had your last residence in the United States. The document must be stamped or apostilled to be valid when included in your application to IMT. The embassy will then authenticate the certificate. You can bring the certificate to your IMT appointment in person.
You can apply online or in an IMT office near you. It's faster and less stressful. You'll need to provide an identification document, such as your taxpayer number or a citizen card, in order to submit your request. If you're exchanging a foreign license, you'll also need your passport or resident permit.
The IMT offers a new service which permits drivers to request duplicate driving licenses online. This new option can save time and money, and it is more convenient than visiting an IMT office in person. The IMT has created a portal that lets drivers upload their documents and even provide a picture.
The institute also offers the possibility of receiving an automatic notification when it is appropriate to renew your driving license. The IMT will also inform you when your driving licence expires and how to renew it.
Time frame
Obtaining your driving license in Portugal is a long process. It can take as long as 30 days for the IMT to approve your application and longer during peak times. You are able to drive while you wait using your driving license from another country or temporary permit.
The IMT's online portal lets you to check the status of your application and track your progress. However, certain applications require an in-person visit. In certain cases you may be able to provide the required documents from your country of origin 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 being lost or stolen while you wait for it to be processed. It's also important to obtain a Portuguese license prior to traveling abroad, since the IMT won't be able to replace your EU license if it's lost or stolen in another country.
Once you've submitted your application, you'll be required to pass a medical exam. This is a simple test to determine if you're mentally fit enough to drive a vehicle. It doesn't include tests for stress or bloodwork and therefore should be simple to pass. The IMT website contains the list of doctors who are approved to administer this exam.
After passing the medical exam, you can then start studying for the theory and practical exams. The theory test can be taken at the IMT or a private examination center but you must have completed your preparation classes before taking it. The practical exam can be taken on its own or with the theory test. If you choose to take the test with the theory exam, you must make sure that you have your certificate of preparation with you at the time of the test. Otherwise, you'll be required to take the exam at a later time.
Insurance
If you are planning to relocate to Portugal in the near future, you must exchange your driver's license as soon as you are able to. In the event of delay, it could result in fines or delays in obtaining your residence permit. It is recommended to change your residence permit within 90 days.
If you're an EU resident or not, you'll need to get a Certificate of Authentication for your license prior to exchanging it for one that is a Portuguese one. This document can be obtained at the Embassy of your country or through consular services in Portugal.
You'll also have to pass a medical examination. Fortunately, the exam isn't as long as you may think. It consists of bloodwork and a check-up that will ensure that you are able to drive safely. A physician from a medical network can conduct this exam costing around EUR25.