Exchanging Your Driving Licence in Portugal (2026): The IMT Process
If you live in Portugal you must exchange your foreign driving licence for a Portuguese one through the IMT. Since 21 January 2026, applications are online only, through the IMT Services Portal. You will need your NIF, proof of residence, a medical certificate from a Portuguese doctor, and your original licence.
Do I have to exchange my licence at all?
It depends on where your licence is from. An EU or EEA licence is valid in Portugal until it expires, though you should register it with the IMT once you are resident. A non EU licence, including UK and US ones, has to be exchanged within a set period after you become resident. Miss that window and you may have to sit theory or practical tests.
What is the deadline?
This is the part people get wrong, because it varies. Depending on your licence and any agreement between Portugal and the issuing country, the window is commonly cited as anywhere from 90 days to two years after you take up residence. Do not guess. Confirm the exact deadline for your case on the official service page at gov.pt before you keep driving.
The online IMT process (from 21 January 2026)
Since 21 January 2026 there is no in person counter for licence exchange. Everything runs through the IMT Services Portal. You create an account, log in, choose Exchange Foreign Licence, complete the form and upload your documents. A doctor registered with the IMT submits your medical certificate electronically, so there is no paper to post.
What documents do you need?
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Valid original foreign licence | Must be genuine and current |
| Identification document | Passport or residence card |
| Proof of residence in Portugal | Such as your residence permit |
| NIF (tax number) | See our NIF guide below |
| Medical certificate | From an IMT registered doctor, filed online |
| Declaration of authenticity | For non EU licences, from the issuing authority or consulate |
Fees and how long it takes
The fee is €30, or €15 if you are aged 70 or over, with a 10% discount for applying through IMTonline. Once you submit, the IMT issues a temporary permit, the guia, so you can keep driving legally while you wait. Processing usually takes one to three months, and your foreign licence is normally surrendered as part of the exchange.
US and UK licences
UK licences can be exchanged for a Portuguese one. For US licences it depends on your state, because Portugal has reciprocity with some states and not others. Where there is no agreement you may have to take a test, so check your state and the current rules on gov.pt before you book anything.
Sorting the admin in the right order?
Your NIF comes before most of this. The Discovery Plan maps every step, from NIF and bank to AIMA and your licence, in the order that actually works.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive on my foreign licence when I first arrive?
Yes, for a limited period after you take up residence, but you must exchange a non EU licence, or register an EU one, within the deadline that applies to you.
Do I need a Portuguese medical certificate?
Yes for most applicants. A doctor registered with the IMT assesses your fitness to drive and files the certificate electronically, so there is no paper to post.
Can I still apply in person?
No. Since 21 January 2026 licence exchange is online only, through the IMT Services Portal.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
You may lose the right to a straight exchange and have to pass Portuguese theory or practical driving tests instead.
How much does it cost?
The fee is 30 euros, or 15 euros if you are aged 70 or over, with a 10% discount for applying through IMTonline.
Can I drive while I wait for the new licence?
Yes. The IMT issues a temporary permit, called a guia, that lets you keep driving legally while your application is processed.
Sources: Portuguese Government service portal (gov.pt) and the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT). Figures current June 2026. Confirm your own deadline and documents on gov.pt before you act.
Last updated June 2026. By Claire Lawrence, who moved to Portugal and now helps others do the same.