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Q: What is the main restriction for drivers during the probationary period in Portugal?

A lower BAC limit of 0.2 g/l. During the 3-year probationary period, Portuguese drivers must maintain a BAC below 0.2 g/l (compared to 0.5 g/l for experienced drivers). Additionally, novice drivers have reduced speed limits: 90 km/h on motorways (instead of 120) and 70 km/h on rural roads (instead of 90). These restrictions help new drivers build experience safely.

Q: What is the default speed limit in Portuguese urban areas (localidades)?

50 km/h. The default speed limit inside built-up areas (localidades) in Portugal is 50 km/h, unless otherwise posted. Some residential areas may have lower limits of 30 km/h (Zonas 30).

Q: What is the maximum speed limit on Portuguese autoestradas (motorways)?

120 km/h. The maximum speed limit on Portuguese motorways (autoestradas) is 120 km/h. The minimum speed is 50 km/h. These limits apply to passenger cars in normal conditions.

Q: What is the maximum blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for experienced drivers in Portugal?

0.5 g/l. The legal BAC limit for experienced drivers in Portugal is 0.5 g/l of blood. Driving with a BAC between 0.5 and 0.8 g/l is a serious offence; above 0.8 g/l is a very serious offence.

Q: Under the 2025 regulations (Decreto-Lei 26/2025), which e-scooters require mandatory civil liability insurance in Portugal?

E-scooters exceeding 25 kg or capable of more than 25 km/h. Since June 2025, Decreto-Lei 26/2025 requires mandatory civil liability insurance for e-scooters that weigh more than 25 kg or can exceed 25 km/h. Lighter, slower scooters are exempt.

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What is the main restriction for drivers during the probationary period in Portugal?

Portugal

Driving Rules & Facts

1

Drive on the Right — Portugal uses right-hand traffic. Overtake on the left. Keep right except when overtaking on multi-lane roads.

2

Blood Alcohol Limits — General limit: 0.5 g/L. Novice drivers (first 3 years) and professional drivers: 0.2 g/L. Criminal offence at 1.2 g/L or above — punishable by up to 1 year imprisonment.

3

Via Verde Electronic Tolls — Portugal's Via Verde system (since 1991) enables electronic toll payment on motorways. Some motorways (former SCUT roads) are electronic-only with no cash booths. Rental cars should have a Via Verde device or use an online portal to pay within 5 days.

4

IPO Vehicle Inspection — Inspecao Periodica Obrigatoria (IPO) is mandatory. First inspection at 4 years after registration, every 2 years until age 8, then annually. Similar to MOT in the UK or TUV in Germany.

5

Phone Use Prohibited — Handheld phone use while driving is prohibited. Fine: €250–1,250 + 3 points (updated 2023). Hands-free systems (Bluetooth, built-in) are permitted. Applies to any handheld electronic device.

6

Seatbelts & Child Seats — Seatbelts mandatory for all occupants (front and rear). Children under 12 and shorter than 135 cm must use an appropriate child restraint system. Children under 3 must use a rear-facing seat in the back.

How to Get Your Driving License in Portugal

Everything you need to know about enrolling in a driving school and getting your B license in Portugal.

Typical Cost

€800–€1,500

Total driving school cost including lessons and materials

Prices vary by school, location, and number of lessons needed.

Typical Lessons Needed

~30

50-minute lessons on average

Mandatory Theory Hours

28h

Required classroom or online theory instruction

Mandatory Practical Hours

32h

Required behind-the-wheel training with an instructor

License Requirements in Portugal

Minimum Age18 years old

Theory Exam Fee30€ approximately

Car License CategoryB

Driving SideRight (drive on the right)

Learner/Provisional LicenseNot applicable

Accompanied DrivingNot required

Online Theory StudyYes, available online

Theory Test Languages

The IMT theory test is available in these languages:

PortugueseEnglish

Tips for Choosing a Driving School in Porto

Compare prices from at least 3 schools before enrolling. The cheapest option is not always the best — check what is included in the package.
Ask schools about their pass rates. A higher pass rate often indicates better instruction quality.
If Portugal's official language is not your first language, ask if the school offers instruction or materials in your language.

Source: Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes · Last updated: 2026-03-15

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