Exchanging Your Foreign Driving License

Why Exchange Your Driving License?

If you’re establishing residency in Portugal, exchanging your foreign driving license is a crucial and often mandatory step. Understanding the rules is key to staying legal on the road.

• Mandatory for Non-EU/EEA Citizens: You must start the exchange process within 90 days of obtaining your legal residency. Driving on a foreign license after this period can result in fines.
• Recommended for EU/EEA Citizens: While not mandatory, you are generally required to register your license with IMT within 60 days of residency. Exchanging it can simplify administrative processes in the long run.

Eligibility & Required Documents

To be eligible, your foreign license must be valid and issued by a country with a reciprocal exchange agreement with Portugal. Preparing all documents thoroughly is vital.

• Valid Foreign Driving License (original and photocopy).
• Portuguese Residence Permit (Título de Residência) or valid visa.
• Passport or ID Card.
• Portuguese Tax Number (NIF).
• Medical Certificate (Atestado Médico): Obtained from any doctor in Portugal. Inform them it’s for a driving license exchange (“troca de carta de condução”).
• Psychological Assessment (Certificado de Avaliação Psicológica): Only required for professional driving categories (e.g., trucks, buses) or for drivers over 60.
• Sworn Declaration: A form, often provided by IMT, stating you are not prohibited from driving.

Step-by-Step Exchange Process

The process is managed by the IMT (Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes) and is best initiated online.

1. Obtain Your Medical Certificate: Book an appointment with a doctor in Portugal. They will issue the certificate electronically and submit it directly to the IMT system.
2. Apply Online via IMT: This is the preferred first step. Go to the IMT’s official website, find the section for “Troca de Título de Condução,” fill out the online form, and upload digital copies of your documents.
3. Attend Your IMT Appointment: After submitting online, you may be required to book an in-person appointment at an IMT office or a Loja do Cidadão. Bring all your original documents.
4. Submit Documents & Pay Fee: At the appointment, you will submit your documents and pay the exchange fee. Your foreign license will be retained by IMT. You will receive a temporary driving permit (guia).
5. Receive Your New License: The new Portuguese driving license will be sent to your registered address by mail. This can take several weeks to a few months. Keep your temporary permit with you while driving.

Important Tips for a Smooth Exchange

• Don’t Delay: Start the process as soon as you get your residency to avoid legal issues.
• Check Agreements: Before you start, confirm on the IMT website that your home country has an exchange agreement with Portugal.
• Translations: If any supporting documents are not in Portuguese, a certified translation may be required.