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Buying a driving license in Portugal: When do I need to have a Portuguese driving license? +34 631171332

Buying a driving license in Portugal: Moving to Portugal raises several questions, and one of the most common among ex-pats is, “Do I need to have a Portuguese driving license?” The answer depends on several factors, such as your country of origin, the type of driving license you hold, and the length of your stay in Portugal. The rules governing driving licenses in Portugal can be categorized into four distinct groups, each of which provides different guidelines on when and if you need to exchange your current license for a Portuguese one.

Understanding these rules is crucial, especially if you want to avoid any penalties or legal complications while enjoying the freedom of driving on Portugal's scenic roads. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the various scenarios in which you may or may not need to exchange your foreign driving license for a Portuguese one.

Driving licence issued by a member state of the European Union or the EEA You can breathe easily if you have a driving license issued by a member state of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA)ly. These licenses are recognized and valid in Portugal, meaning you can legally drive without exchanging your license for a Portuguese one. However, there are still some bureaucratic steps to take if you plan to reside in Portugal for an extended period.

While exchanging is optional, you must register your EU/EEA driving license with the National Railway Safety Authority (IMT) within 60 days of establishing residency. This is more of an administrative procedure, but failure to do so within the given timeframe could result in a fine. So even if you don't plan to exchange your license, it's essential to make sure it's registered with the IMT.

License from a country with a bilateral agreement If you hold a driving license from a country that has a bilateral agreement or a reciprocity regime with Portugal, different rules apply. These agreements allow you to drive in Portugal with your foreign license, but only for 185 days after entering Portugal, provided that you have not yet established residency. Basically, this rule applies to tourists or those who are temporarily staying in Portugal.

Once you establish residency, the timeline changes. You will be able to continue driving with your foreign permit for up to 90 days after you obtain your residency permit. However, during this period, you will need to apply for an exchange at the IMT. If you miss these 90 days but are still within the two years, you can still apply for an exchange, although you will no longer be able to legally drive with your foreign license in the meantime.

After two years of residence, if you have not yet exchanged your foreign driving license, it will no longer be valid in Portugal. To obtain a Portuguese license at this stage, you will need to take a practical driving test. To avoid this hassle, it is best to apply for the exchange as soon as possible.

Driving licence from non-EU/EEA and non-reciprocal countries If your driving license was issued in a country outside the EU, or EEA or does not have a bilateral agreement with Portugal, your foreign license will not be valid for driving in Portugal. While you can apply to exchange your license for a Portuguese one, doing so requires more steps.

First, you must meet all exchange requirements, which may include providing documentation and proof of the validity of your foreign license. More importantly, you will also need to pass a practical driving test in Portugal to be eligible for the exchange. Without meeting these criteria, you will not be able to legally drive in the country.

Portugal has specific rules regarding driving licenses from countries such as the US, Canada, and other non-EU/EEA countries, making it essential for foreign residents of these regions to plan ahead.

Special regulations for CPLP and OECD countries In 2022, Portugal updated its laws regarding foreign driving licenses from countries in the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP) and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). According to the new decree, driving licenses from these countries are recognized for residents under certain conditions.

These licenses are valid in Portugal if:

The issuing country is a signatory to the Geneva or Vienna traffic conventions or has a bilateral agreement with Portugal.

The license was issued or renewed within the last 15 years.

The license holder is under 60 years of age.

The foreign driving license remains valid.

The holder meets the minimum driving age requirements in Portugal.

The license is not suspended or revoked.

If you meet these criteria, you will be able to drive in Portugal with your foreign license even after establishing residency. However, any changes you need to make to the license, such as adding or modifying driving categories, will require you to exchange it for a Portuguese driving license.

Time Limits for Driving in Portugal with a Foreign License A crucial aspect when driving in Portugal with a foreign license is the time limits involved. These start from the day you obtain your residence permit. The key deadlines are:

First 90 days: You can drive with your foreign license, but you must apply for an exchange. Up to 2 years: You can apply for an exchange at IMT. However, you will no longer be able to drive with your foreign license after the initial 90 days. After 2 years: You must take a driving test to exchange your foreign license for a Portuguese one. Buying a driver's license in Portugal While it is possible to exchange or obtain a Portuguese driver's license through legal means, some people may consider alternative options, such as purchasing a driver's license in Portugal. Please note that purchasing a driver's license from unauthorized sources is illegal and can lead to serious penalties, including fines, imprisonment, or deportation for foreign residents. Always make sure to follow the proper legal procedures to avoid complications with the Portuguese authorities.

Conclusion Understanding when you need to exchange your foreign driving license for a Portuguese one can save you fines, legal hassles, and unnecessary bureaucracy. Whether you drive with an EU/EEA license, one from a country with a bilateral agreement, or a nation outside of these agreements, it is essential to be aware of the time limits and legal requirements. While offers to buy a driving license in Portugal may tempt you, it is always best to follow the legal process to avoid complications.

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