Portugal driver’s licence

Who needs a Portuguese driving license?

You’ll need to be at least 18 years of age to drive a car in Portugal. As a temporary visitor, you’re allowed to use a valid international license for up to six months. If you continue to use your license after this date without renewing it or arranging a Portuguese driving license exchange, you could face heavy fines. When driving as a visitor it can be worth purchasing an International Driving Permit, even though it isn’t required in all cases.Portugal driver’s licence

If you relocate to Portugal and become a permanent resident, however, the conditions change. If you have an EU/EEA license you can simply continue to use this until it expires. If you have a non-EU license, you may be mandated to get a Portuguese driving license.

Portugal driving license exchange: for EU licenses

If you move to Portugal and want to continue using your international driving permit, you’ll need to inform the Institute for Mobility and Transport (IMT, Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes) within 30 days of obtaining your residence certificate. You can also continue using your EU driving license until it expires. Failure to let the IMT know you’ll be using your old license can result in significant fines.Portugal driver’s licence

However, it can still be worthwhile to arrange a Portugal driving license exchange for your EU license. This is largely because if your license is damaged, stolen or lost, it can only be replaced by the organization that issued it. This may cause problems in some cases, for example, if you have a UK license the DVLA doesn’t renew or replace licenses to addresses abroad.

DO I NEED AN INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT IN PORTUGAL?

Americans are not required by law to obtain an international driving permit to drive a rental car in Portugal. Short term visitors staying less than six months in the country can drive their rental with a valid US license. Although Portugal does not require that foreign drivers carry this permit, if you are driving to a neighboring country, such as Spain, it could be a requirement.

While it is not required by law, it may be a good idea to have an IDP to go along with your domestic license if you are in a traffic accident or pulled over by local police. Portugal driver’s licence

ABOUT CARRYING AN INTERNATIONAL DRIVERS PERMIT IN PORTUGAL

A Portugal international driver’s permit is a translated copy of your country’s driver’s license. This specially translated document makes things easier for you since the language barrier is diminished. The document must be presented with your original license.

Anyone who is over 18 years of age with a valid license can apply for and receive the driver’s license. It is also required that all applications be made for drivers who have been licensed for a period of six months or longer.

To receive the permit, it is necessary that you provide a copy of your driver’s license and two passport photos. You are also required to pay a fee for the license. You can expect to pay $20 or less for the document. Both in person and mailed applications can be completed and you can find your IDL form online. Remember, if you decide to mail your application in, the processing time will be longer than if you were to apply in person.

OBTAINING YOUR INTERNATIONAL DRIVER’S LICENSE IN PORTUGAL

The AAA (www.aaa.com) and AATA (aataidp.com) are the only two authorized U.S. Department of Transportation agencies that can provide you with the international driver’s license for Portugal or any other destination in Europe. Although you might find other agencies offering the license, it is advised that you not deal with those organizations. There is a good chance that it is nothing more than a scam, and you certainly do not want to become the victim of a driver’s license scam.Portugal driver’s licence

Once you have the license, it is good for a period of one year. After this time you will need to reapply for the license. The international driver’s permit is great for all travelers who plan to enjoy a short-term stay in Portugal. This includes people who are on vacation, students, business travelers, and more. The license ensures that you have less of a hassle while in the country, because you most certainly do not want a headache when you’re in a foreign country that is so unfamiliar.