Driving Licence Exchange (IMT)
Swap your foreign licence for a Portuguese one — the IMT process, handled for you.
When you become resident in Portugal, your foreign driving licence usually has to be exchanged for a Portuguese one through the IMT (Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes). We prepare your file, submit the exchange request and follow it through, so you don’t have to navigate the IMT yourself.
Who this is for
- New residents who need to exchange a foreign driving licence
- People from a country with a reciprocal agreement with Portugal (direct exchange)
- Those who want the IMT paperwork and appointments handled for them
- Anyone who would rather not deal with the IMT in Portuguese
What you provide
- Your valid foreign driving licence (with an official translation where it is not in Portuguese)
- Your NIF and proof of legal residence in Portugal
- A medical certificate (atestado médico)
- Passport-style photos and valid identification
What you receive
- Your exchange request submitted to the IMT
- Your Portuguese driving licence, issued by the IMT
- Guidance on surrendering your foreign licence where the IMT requires it
From order to done
1. Send us your details
Share your foreign licence, NIF and residence proof so we can check your route and requirements.
2. We prepare your file
We assemble the documents, arrange any required translation or medical certificate, and complete the IMT application.
3. We submit to the IMT
We lodge the exchange request (Troca de Título de Condução Estrangeiro) and follow up during verification.
4. You receive your licence
Once issued, you receive your Portuguese driving licence; we guide you on handing over the original where required.
Timeline: Since 21 January 2026 the exchange is submitted online through the IMT portal; IMT usually processes a complete application within about 30–60 days (longer if it must verify your licence with the issuing authority, or if an exam is required).
Included in the price
- Review of your case and the applicable exchange route
- Preparation of the IMT application and document file
- Submission of the exchange request and follow-up with the IMT
Not included
- The IMT fee and any government charges, paid separately
- Medical certificate, official translation and any licence-authentication costs
- A Portuguese driving exam, where your country has no direct-exchange agreement
Not sure this is the right service? Tell us your situation and we’ll point you to the right one. This is information and facilitation, not a guarantee of any immigration or tax outcome.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to retake a driving test?
Only if your country has no direct-exchange agreement with Portugal. Many countries qualify for direct exchange; we confirm your country’s status with the IMT before starting.
Do I need a medical certificate?
Yes — a medical certificate (atestado médico) is required, and a psychological assessment is also needed for some professional categories. We tell you exactly what applies to you.
Can I keep driving while I wait?
It depends on your residence status and the deadline that started when you became resident. We advise on your specific situation so you stay compliant.
How long does it take?
Since 21 January 2026 the exchange is online-only; the IMT usually processes a complete application within about 30–60 days. We recommend applying well before the 90-day deadline that applies to most new non-EU residents.