Portugal Driving Test
Pass First Time

Getting a driving licence in Portugal means enrolling at an escola de condução and passing exams administered by IMT — the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes — the government agency that oversees every theory exam, practical test, and licence issue in the country. Here's everything you need to know in under two minutes. [0:06 Theory Test Format] The Portuguese theory test has 30 multiple-choice questions drawn from a bank of over 6,000 questions, and you must get at least 27 correct. That's a 90% pass mark — one of the strictest in Europe. You have 30 minutes, the test is computer-based at IMT offices or approved private centres, and questions cover the Código da Estrada, traffic signs, road safety, and vehicle mechanics. [0:20 Cost of a Portuguese Licence] Expect to pay between €700 and €1,200 total. That covers the driving school package (€650–900 for 28 theory and 32 practical lessons), the IMT theory test (€15 at IMT or up to €110 at private centres), the practical test (€30 at IMT), medical certificate (€20–50), and licence issuance (€30). Enrolment in a licensed escola de condução is mandatory. [0:35 Portuguese Speed Limits] Portugal uses four main speed tiers: 50 km/h in urban areas (localidades), 90 km/h on rural roads, 100 km/h on expressways (vias reservadas), and 120 km/h on motorways (autoestradas). Coexistence zones shared with pedestrians are limited to 20 km/h. The minimum speed on motorways is 50 km/h. [0:47 Traffic Fines & Points] Portugal uses a 12-point Carta por Pontos system launched in 2016. Serious infractions deduct 2–4 points, very serious ones 4–6 points. Reaching 0 points means licence cancellation and a 2-year ban. Speeding 20–40 km/h over the limit costs €120–300. Phone use while driving is €120 and 2 points. Drink-driving over 0.5 g/L starts at €250 with point deductions. [1:02 Key Road Rules] Portugal drives on the right and gives way to traffic from the right at unmarked intersections. Every vehicle must carry a reflective vest and warning triangle. The BAC limit is 0.5 g/L general, dropping to 0.2 g/L for novice drivers in their first 3 years. New drivers receive a carta provisória — a provisional licence with stricter rules for 3 years. [1:14 Step-by-Step Licence Process] The process: enrol at an escola de condução, obtain a medical certificate, complete 28 theory lessons, pass the 30-question IMT theory exam, complete 32 hours of practical lessons, then pass the practical road test with an IMT examiner. Total time is typically 3 to 6 months. [1:29 Emergency Numbers] Portugal uses the pan-European 112 for any emergency — police, ambulance, or fire. The GNR (Guarda Nacional Republicana) traffic division handles highway incidents. [1:37 Driving Myths vs Facts] Myth: you can easily swap any foreign licence. Fact: only EU and EEA licences are automatically valid — most non-EU licences require passing the full Portuguese theory and practical exam. Myth: the theory test is easy with the question bank available. Fact: with over 6,000 questions, memorising answers is impractical — you need to understand the Código da Estrada. Myth: speed cameras are rare. Fact: Portugal has been rapidly expanding its speed camera network, especially on the IC and IP roads. Practice the full Portuguese theory question bank for free on AutoviaTest to prepare for your IMT exam.