Buy the IMT Driving License Online
If you are planning to exchange your driving license to Portugal, the best thing to do is begin the process as soon as you get your residency card. Comprar carta de condução categoria B will save you time and effort in the long run.
There are some requirements you must satisfy, like taking classes or an examination for medical reasons. But don't fret that the medical exam is not as difficult as it appears.
Requirements
If you are planning to relocate to Portugal it is essential to exchange your foreign driving license for a Portuguese one whenever you can. You will have an authentic driving license in the event that your vehicle is stolen or lost. stolen. You can exchange your license at the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT) offices. The process is easy however a few papers are required. This includes a medical examination and a translation of your foreign driving license. You can employ a professional translator to assist you.
You will also have to pass a driving theory test and complete a practical lesson. The lessons are held in licensed driving schools by the government. You can find the list of these centers on the IMT website. The test for theory will cost 30 euros, while the practical driving exam will cost 40 euros. You may be required to take a special test for specialized vehicles such as buses or other big passenger vehicles.
The IMT's website has information on how to exchange a foreign driving license in Portugal. It's important to check IMT's site before moving because there are different rules for each country. For example, expats from the United States must submit a certificate of the equivalent of their home state.
The IMT will need to see your passport or identification card before allowing you to transfer your driving license. It will also require a certified copy of your driving record. You can obtain an official copy from the state you reside in, or from a public notary. The notary will charge you a fee for his service.
Fees
As of today, the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT) has launched a new online service that lets citizens to obtain a driving license certificate. To access the service, drivers need to have their citizenship card or digital mobile key, and be able to access the IMT's 'My Driving License' portal. Once they have registered, the license can be issued in Portuguese or English. It is valid for a minimum of six months. The authenticity of the certificate can be confirmed by scanning the QR code or entering the verification code.
Wait for IMT to notify you that you are able to visit their desk to complete your application and submit biometric information. IMT will let you know whether there's an exam fee.
It is important to keep in mind that the process could take a while, particularly because the US doesn't have a system to automatically exchange documents such as driver's licenses with Portugal. After you have submitted your documents it could take several weeks for IMT to examine it and return it back to you.

Make sure that the documents you submit to IMT are clearly labelled with your name and address. It's also a good idea to scan all documents prior to sending them so that you can locate them in the event of need. If you have multiple relatives applying for the license, make sure to label each document with a distinct name to avoid any confusion. This will speed up the process and avoid delays.
Timeframe
If you are a holder of a valid driver's license issued by a country that is a signatory to the international road traffic convention, you can exchange it for one that is a Portuguese one within 60 days of your arrival in Portugal. You can do this either via the internet or at an IMT desk. To do this you need to present an identity proof and the completed Modelo 10 IMT form. You must also register on the IMT site using your taxpayer number as well as a password.
The cost for those who exchange their licenses will be more. If you have a US driving license, for instance you will have to get an abstract from state authorities as well as an official doctor's certificate confirming that you are able to drive. The medical exam will be conducted by the doctor who will ask general health questions and give you a summary neurological test.
The process is lengthy but it's worth it. It's important to obtain your license as soon as possible, before it gets lost or stolen.
If you are submitting an application for a license, be sure to scan and save all documents separately. If possible, you should assign each file a unique name to avoid confusion. IMT will send you a confirmation email after you've submitted your application. It will inform you of the status. You will also be given an appointment to take the practical driving test at IMT.
Practical lessons
The driving lessons are held in government-licensed centres and are supervised only by qualified instructors. The learning period is between 28 and 32 hours. Before you can book a test, you must complete both the theoretical and practical lessons. The test is conducted at the same location that you took your theory test, so you should be familiar with the setting at this point. The test is comprised of 30 questions, and you are not allowed to make more than three mistakes. The questions are in line with the syllabus you studied in your preparation classes. The exams aren't online, however there are several websites where you can download the syllabus.
You may also select a private institute to pass the test however, you must be aware that these exams are dependent on the availability of dates and experts. In addition, you'll be required to pay a fee of EUR30 and submit a medical certificate stating that you're qualified to drive. Renewals can also require an eye test. You'll get your license by mail once you have passed the test.
On the website of the IMT, you will also find a listing of centres that are accredited. It is essential to verify whether the center has a qualified instructor. Don't hesitate to ask for another instructor if you're not satisfied with the instructor's quality. The instructor will teach you how to drive a vehicle and control traffic. It is also necessary to know the code of highways in Portugal and the road signs. The cost of driving classes in Portugal will vary from centre to center. Compare prices on the IMT website to get the most affordable price.
Theory test
The Institute of Mobility and Transport offers both practical and theory-based driving lessons. It is possible to get a driver's license through the IMT only after passing a theoretical as well as an exam in the practical. It is also necessary to obtain a certificate of a favorable psychological evaluation. The theoretical exam, or "exame of codigo," consists of 30 questions that need to be completed correctly within 35 minutes. The theoretical exam is available through IMT or private testing centers. If you are an international student, you can ask the IMT to translate your questions into English.
The test for driving practice or "exame of velocidade" takes between 40 and 50 minutes. The test is driving through an urban area. You will be evaluated both by the examiner and the instructor. If you pass the practical test then the IMT will issue a license to you via email.
You must have completed at least 28 of your theoretical classes and 16 practical classes to be qualified for the theoretical and practical test. You may also opt to take your theory exam before you complete the required number of practical classes. You'll need to pay for the practical classes.
If you don't have enough money to purchase a car, you can rent one from a driving academy. This will let you test your driving skills without having to worry about the cost of purchasing a new vehicle. Be sure to investigate all the schools in your area and select the most suitable one. If you are planning on renting a car, be sure to review the insurance policy before booking it. The rental company might refuse to pay if you don't have the proper insurance.