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Foreign driving licence in Portugal: everything you need to do to exchange it.
Are you living in Portugal but still using the driving licence from your home country? It’s time to make the switch.
Exchanging your foreign driving licence in Portugal is mandatory under certain conditions and within specific deadlines. Do you want to know when you need to do it? Xtracars will guide you through all the necessary steps and documents to ensure you continue driving legally in Portugal.
Foreign residents in Portugal. Do you all need to change your driving licence?
Want to explore every corner of Portugal with peace of mind? Wondering if you're complying with the laws of the country you've chosen to live in? Start by checking whether you’re required to exchange your foreign driving licence in Portugal.
Who needs to exchange their foreign driving licence in Portugal?
Exchanging your foreign driving licence in Portugal is only mandatory in the following cases:
- EU/EEA licences: You may drive in Portugal until your licence expires. However, you must register your residence with the IMT within 60 days (about 2 months).
- Licences from countries with a bilateral agreement with Portugal (e.g. Brazil, UK, Switzerland): You must exchange your licence within two years of obtaining legal residence in Portugal.
- Licences from countries outside the EU/EEA without agreements: You must exchange your licence immediately after obtaining residency. You may need to take theoretical and practical exams.
Exceptions and special rules for driving licence exchange.
- OECD and CPLP countries (e.g. Brazil, Angola, USA, Japan): In many cases, you do not need to exchange your licence. However, the licence must be valid, issued less than 15 years ago, and the driver must be under 60 years of age.
- Suspended, expired, or revoked licences cannot be exchanged.
Steps to exchange your foreign driving licence in Portugal.
1. Booking: Start the process online at the IMT portal or in person with a scheduled appointment.
2. Required Documents:
- Identification document (passport or citizen card)
- Proof of residence in Portugal
- Original driving licence
- Medical certificate (submitted electronically by your doctor)
- Psychological assessment certificate (for categories C, D or E)
- Official translation of the licence (if not in Portuguese)
3. Fees: The base fee to exchange a foreign driving licence is €30. Additional costs may apply depending on the licence type and required tests.
4. Processing Time: Typically, between 30 and 90 days (about 3 months) after submitting all documents.
Driving without heavy fines in Portugal
Driving with an invalid or unrecognised licence in Portugal can lead to heavy fines and a driving ban. Staying legal is vital for your safety and gives you peace of mind.
Enjoy Portugal to the fullest with Xtracars.
If you're about to exchange your foreign driving licence for a Portuguese one, all you need now is a car to start enjoying Portugal. Not ready to buy one yet? Opt for Xtracars’ car subscription service.
With us, you can drive your dream car every day – with everything included. No need to worry about maintenance, insurance, or taxes. Get ready to drive worry-free.
