Driving License in Portugal for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in Portugal with a foreign license?
Yes, for 90 days (non-EU with agreement) or 185 days (EU). After that, you must convert to a Portugal license. The official test is only in Portuguese, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: Portugal Driving License for Expats
| Test Authority | IMT (Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes) |
| Official Test Language | Portuguese |
| Grace Period | 90 days (non-EU with agreement) or 185 days (EU) |
| Theory Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Practical Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Medical Exam | Required |
| Total Cost | 100-200€ (exchange) or 800-1,200€ (full test) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 months |
Official test only in Portuguese?
Practice in English first with AutoviaTest. Learn all the rules and questions before taking the official test.
🇵🇹 Practice Portugal Test in EnglishEligibility by Nationality
🇪🇺 EU/EEA Citizens
EU licenses valid indefinitely. Optional exchange available.
🇺🇸🇬🇧 US/UK Citizens
No agreement with USA. UK license can be exchanged.
🌍 Other Non-EU Citizens
Must exchange within 90 days if from agreement country, otherwise full test.
🎓 Students
Can use foreign license with IDP during studies.
License Exchange Agreements
✅ Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, UK, Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, São Tomé and Príncipe, East Timor
❌ No Agreement (Full Test Required)
USA, Canada, Australia - must take full tests
Required Documents
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓NIF (tax number)
- ✓Proof of address
- ✓Original foreign license
- ✓Translation (if not in Portuguese/English)
- ✓Medical certificate
- ✓Passport photos
Costs Breakdown
| Conversion/Exam Fee | 30€ |
| Medical Exam | 30-50€ |
| Translation | 50-100€ (if needed) |
| Total Estimated | 100-200€ (exchange) or 800-1,200€ (full test) |
Tips for Expats in Portugal
- 💡Test is ONLY in Portuguese - practice in English first
- 💡Brazil agreement makes exchange easy for Brazilians
- 💡NIF required before applying - get this first
- 💡Via Verde toll system - register to avoid issues
- 💡Digital Nomad Visa holders should convert early
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Portuguese driving test in English?
What is a NIF and why do I need it?
Can Brazilians exchange their license in Portugal?
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your Portugal driving test in English.