Updated April 22, 2026
Driving License in Portugal for Expats
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)
- Processing Time
- 1-3 months
- 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)
Eligibility 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.
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)
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 13
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 13
EU/EEA countriesSwitzerlandUKBrazilAngolaMozambiqueCape VerdeGuinea-BissauSão Tomé and PríncipeEast TimorMacauJapanSouth Korea
No Agreement (Full Test Required): USA, Canada, Australia - must take full tests
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
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Portuguese driving test in English?
No, the IMT theory test is only available in Portuguese. Practice with AutoviaTest in English to learn the rules before taking the official test.
What is a NIF and why do I need it?
NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is your Portuguese tax number. It's required for almost all official processes, including license applications.
Can Brazilians exchange their license in Portugal?
Yes, Brazil has a bilateral agreement with Portugal for direct license exchange without tests. You'll need your original Brazilian license and supporting documents.